Operator Interfaces, Switches & Relays


Robust and portable device keeps its user connected to plant information

November 2002 Operator Interfaces, Switches & Relays

The MOBIC mobile industrial communicator is an innovative Internet pad from SIMATIC NET – with a number of valuable features. Whether the requirement is to acquire quality data, view spare parts lists, view process status, acknowledge work orders or receive detailed work plans on the road, this device can keep its operator posted while moving around on-site.

Designed for use in industrial environments, MOBIC works in locations and under conditions that would ruin conventional notebooks. Both dust and splash proof, it can even withstand being dropped. Its battery capacity is sufficient for an entire eight-hour shift between recharges.

Easy-to-use technology

Lightweight, ergonomic design, wireless access to intranet and Internet as well as a rugged design make MOBIC a suitable product for intelligent mobile communications. Wireless LAN or GSM - the user has access to the Internet, to their company's own intranet and to databases. Different PCMCIA cards can be plugged into the housing. The device features IP65 protection.

Ready to start immediately

Thanks to its Windows CE operating system, MOBIC has no long power-up and power-down times - the device is fully functional in less that 1 second.

Direct access

The Windows CE Internet Explorer (JAVA integrated) is well suited to mobile documentation and e-business functions on-site. Additional advantages include direct access to all the user's company data and programs (thin client functionality) and an e-mail function.

Fast input

Consistently designed for easy handling, the touch screen enables direct input via finger pressure or pen. MOBIC recognises hand-written inputs. Keys are kept to a sensible minimum, and are in part freely assignable to supplement functionality.

Display features

The touch screen is of large format and a high resolution. This means that complex diagrams can be displayed effectively. Together, the processor and the high-speed graphics controller provide performance that is admirable. Additional information is indicated by means of LEDs.

Some applications for which MOBIC would be indispensable:

On-site diagnostics, maintenance, start-up of machines and plants:

* Flexible diagnostics without being tied to one location.

* More accurate machine inspection since the up-to-date process data are online.

* Views of areas of large machines that were previously difficult to access.

* Start-up with optimised time and personnel overhead.

New possibilities in quality management:

* Mobility in large production plants (eg, automotive industry).

* Mobile access to databases.

* Location-independent process data visualisation.

* Mobile database management.

Increased flexibility in monitoring logistics processes:

* Wireless online access and data input.

* Supply chain management.

Optimised diagnostics and maintenance for vehicles of all types:

* Fast and flexible, thanks to wireless online support, especially in demanding environments such as railways, ships, airplanes, trucks...

* Spare parts lists, manuals, etc, accessible online.

Improved overview for facility management and infrastructure:

* Improved assignment coordination.

* Mobile documentation.

Time saving in rescue and monitoring services:

* Mobile documentation.

* Detailed assignment instructions.

* Optimised dialog with field service control centres.

Summary of some of the noteworthy specifications:

* Degree of protection IP65.

* Vibration-proof.

* Weighs only 1,7 kg.

* Can operate for up to 8 h (typical).

* 21 cm TFT display.

* SVGA 800 x 600 touch screen.

* Windows CE operating system.

* MS Internet explorer.

* Fast ethernet on board (10/100 Mb/s).

* Serial interface + UBS + IrDA.

* Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11b), GSM and HSCSD via PCMCIA - card.

* Ergonomic design.

For more information contact Siemens Automation and Drives, 0860 80 8080, [email protected], www.siemens.co.za





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