I. Main Classifications of Industrial Control Computers
An industrial personal computer (IPC) is a general term for a tool that uses a bus architecture to monitor and control production processes, electromechanical equipment, and technological tools. It is also a ruggedized, enhanced personal computer specifically designed for industrial environments, primarily used for measurement, control, and management in industrial production processes. IPCs are responsible for data acquisition and processing. They can connect to various sensors and actuators, collecting and processing sensor signals to control actuators in real time, achieving numerical control of equipment. They can receive large amounts of real-time data, perform precise calculations and analysis, and provide timely and accurate feedback for industrial production.
Industrial PCs possess real-time control capabilities within control systems. Whether for robot control, SCADA system control, or PLC control, industrial PCs ensure rapid data processing speed and stability. Through close collaboration with control systems, industrial PCs can achieve precise control and efficient operation of automated production lines, improving production efficiency and quality.
Industrial PCs also possess communication and control functions. They can manage network communications, connect various devices via networks, and achieve data sharing and information exchange. Through connections with other devices and systems, industrial PCs can achieve system integration and remote monitoring, facilitating real-time observation and control of the production process by management personnel.
The main classifications of industrial control computers are as follows:
1. IPC (Industrial PC via PC Bus)
An IPC (Industrial PC) is an industrial computer that utilizes the PC bus. Thanks to its reliability, expandability, compatibility, and many other features, IPCs can operate in harsh environments such as electromagnetic interference, vibration, dust, and high/low temperatures in industrial settings. They can also connect to various peripherals, boards, and monitors in the industrial field to complete various work tasks.
2. PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)
PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller, which refers to a microprocessor-based digital control system used for automation control. It is a digital electronic system specifically designed for industrial applications. Due to its scalability and reliability, PLCs are widely used in various industrial control fields.
3. DCS (Distributed Control System)
DCS stands for Distributed Control System. It is an instrument control system based on microprocessors. Its design principle is to distribute control functions, centralize display and operation, and take into account both decentralized autonomy and comprehensive coordination. It adopts a multi-level, hierarchical, cooperative and autonomous structure. Its main features are centralized management and decentralized control.
4. FCS (Fieldbus Control System)
FCS stands for Fieldbus Control System, a next-generation product of Distributed Control Systems (DCS), primarily used in industrial process automation. Essentially, FCS is more like a digital communication protocol, featuring field communication networks, interconnectivity of field devices, interoperability, distributed function blocks, power supply via communication lines, and open interconnection networks.
5. CNC (Computer Numerical Control System)
CNC stands for Computerized Numerical Control. It is a dedicated computer system that executes some or all numerical control functions based on the control program stored in the computer's memory, and is equipped with interface circuits and servo drive devices.
II. Application Areas of Industrial Control Computers
Aviation information: Airport dynamic information display, query, monitoring and management system, etc.
In-vehicle applications: in-vehicle computers, in-vehicle media players, in-vehicle electronic devices, in-vehicle field instruments and equipment, etc.
Special applications: Electronic equipment for special environments, computers for harsh environments, low-radiation electromagnetic interference resistant equipment, ruggedized computers, etc.
Mechanical equipment: reflow soldering machines, wave soldering machines, spectrometers, EDM machines, textile machinery, packaging machinery, bonding machines, assembly machines, etc.
Financial systems: ATMs, POS machines, lottery machines, large-scale entertainment equipment, self-service inquiry terminals, etc.
Intelligent Transportation: Highway toll collection, traffic light monitoring, automatic speeding detection, etc.
Video surveillance: building hard disk recording, bank surveillance, underground coal mining video surveillance, bus recording systems, etc.
Communication equipment: SMS platform, billing system, PBX, etc.
Network equipment: firewalls, intrusion detection systems, VPN systems, antivirus systems, routers, network servers, etc.
Control systems: Distributed control systems, machine tool control, motion control, vision systems, water treatment systems, and other automatic control systems.
Power equipment: power monitoring, power dispatching, remote meter reading, etc.
Medical equipment: monitors, diagnostic instruments, medical devices, etc.
Internet of Things (IoT): Smart Home, Smart Building, Smart Healthcare, etc.
