Beckhoff Introduces New Multi-touch Panel PCs for “All-in-One” HMI and Control

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CP26xx Panel PCs deliver multi-touch functionality and automation capability with ARM Cortex™ A8 processor

SAVAGE, Minnesota, January 16, 2014 – Beckhoff Automation has broadened the company’s range of devices with multi-touch functionality via the flexible CP26xx Panel PC series. Equipped with an ARM Cortex™ A8 processor, the fanless series of Panel PCs is exceptionally compact and is also designed for use in PLC and motion control applications. This feature-filled solution is ideal for control of small to medium-sized machines.

In contrast to the ARM9 architecture, the ARM Cortex™ A8 processor used in the CP26xx Panel PC series has a hardware-based floating point unit, which makes floating point operations (Real, LReal) significantly faster.

Subsequently, this powerful Panel PC series can be used for motion control applications in addition to running the HMI software. TwinCAT automation software from Beckhoff is the perfect platform to turn the Panel PC into an all-in-one HMI, PLC and motion control system.

The CP26xx Panel PC features a 1 GHz ARM Cortex™ A8 CPU with access to 1 GB internal DDR3 RAM memory. The standard operating system is Microsoft Windows Embedded Compact 7. Additionally, a 256 MB Micro SD card is included as standard and up to 4 GB are optionally available. A 128 kbyte NOVRAM ensures fail-safe storage of TwinCAT process data. Also available is an on-board 10/100BASE-T Ethernet adapter, an EtherCAT adapter with RJ-45 connector and an RS-232 interface with two USB-2.0 ports.

The aluminum panel housing, with high quality glass front, offers IP 65 protection at the front and IP 20 in the back. Users have a choice of eight different multi-touch TFT displays in sizes between 7" and 24", as well as 4:3, widescreen, landscape or portrait formats. The operating temperature range for the panels is 0 to 55 °C.

Enabling multi-touch benefits throughout
With the CP2xxx and CP3xxx Control Panel and Panel PC series, Beckhoff offers a comprehensive range of multi-touch operating devices, which continues to be expanded even further. High quality manufacturing execution of the aluminum housing designs makes the panels robust and ideal for industrial applications. A narrow, circumferential metal impact protector reliably protects the touchscreen surface and display against mechanical damage. In addition, the all-glass surface offers maximum resistance to environmental influences.

The multi-touch panels with projective capacitive touchscreen (PCT) technology feature a high touch-point density, which enables accurate, safe and jerk-free operation, even in minute steps. Dynamic multi-touch response is assured even while wearing thin work gloves (e.g. latex gloves).  In addition to multi-finger touch or dual-touch operating modes (for Panel-PCs with Windows Embedded Compact 7 OS), the new series offers high-precision automation solutions with two-hand operation.

Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 60 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.