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        Rugged Geode-based PLC supports Windows CE

        Doug | Date: Nov 21, 2005 | Comments: 1



        SMA Computers is shipping a rugged, fanless industrial computer that meets shock/vibration and extended operating temperature requirements and runs Windows CE 4.2. The Enduro Outdoor targets PLC (programmable logic controller) style applications in mobile and industrial environments, according to the company.




        (Click here for larger image)

        The Enduro is based on an AMD Geode SC1100 x86 embedded processor clocked at 233 MHz, along with 64 MB of SDRAM. The device also includes 32 KB of non-volatile FeRAM, an EIDE interface for CompactFlash and a hard drive, and both PC/104 and CompactPCI expansion bus connectors.

        Input/output ports include two each USB 1.0, 10/100 Ethernet, CAN 2.0B, and one serial port. Additionally, the system provides electrically isolated digital I/O in the form of two counters and two each input and output bits.


        Enduro Outdoor block diagram
        (Click image for larger view)

        SMA supports the Enduro Outdoor with a "Soft PLC" programming environment from 3S Smart Software Solutions called CoDeSys, which is used for creating PLC applications without writing C or C++. CoDeSys is an implementation of IEC 61131-3, a standard that defines programming languages for industrial automation, according to SMA. Background on IEC 61131-3 is available here (PDF file).

        SMA says the Enduro's specifications for shock, vibration, and operating temperature are certified to the European Railway Standard EN50155. Fanless operating temperature range is specified as -25 to +70 degrees C, with 85 degrees allowable for up to 10 minutes. The aluminum housing is sealed against water and dust to IP67.

        In addition to Windows CE, the Enduro Outdoor supports RTOS-32, a "WIN32-compatible" multi-tasking operating system from On-Time, and also embedded Linux.



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