Solid-state solution with Linux approach
May 2005
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
In collaboration with an industry-leading semiconductor manufacturing supplier, an integrator recognised the significant potential of combining the strengths of the Linux operating system with the power of the Advantech line of computing. The integrator uses Advantech HMI platforms to create consistent, cost-effective, user-friendly touch panel interfaces for critical tools. The Advantech product used in this project was the TPC-1260T
Following significant evaluation, it became apparent that a compatible version of Linux was not readily available. This led to the decision by the integrator to invest in the effort to assemble a customised version of the open source operating system. This enables a very compact memory footprint along with tremendous flexibility and a familiar development environment.
By combining a custom kernel built for the Transmeta Crusoe processor, X Windows libraries, PostgreSQL, an Apache web server with support for PHP, and a lightweight browser, the integrator has created a control platform that is robust and configurable.
Web-based applications supported by this platform are easily developed using readily available tools and standards including HTML and PHP. The configurable nature of Linux has enabled the integrator to load the operating system and custom interface onto a single bootable 128 MB CompactFlash card, resulting in a complete solid-state solution.
With a high quality TFT LCD display, the TPC-1260T adopts the Transmeta Crusoe 5400 processor as the core. It is a low power consumption x86 compliant processor with 500 MHz operating rate. This system is therefore designed to be fanless though the kernel has all the power needed.
The preliminary launch of this control platform incorporates a collection of dynamic web pages that are locally served to the touch-screen interface of an Advantech TPC-1260T HMI. By making effective use of the existing network support within the system, these same web pages are also accessible remotely via standard web browsers, thus allowing remote monitoring without the need to install custom client software. The value of this remote access functionality becomes apparent when considering the benefit to service personnel who can diagnose problems prior to travelling to the customer site. Additionally, the framework established in the creation of this tool will be central to the customer's ability to reduce time to market for future tools.
For more information contact Peet Smit, Centurion MicroElectronics, 012 666 9066, [email protected]
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