TEWS TPMC866-11

Description

Product Overview and Key Specifications

The TEWS TPMC866-11 is a highly versatile and robust single-board computer (SBC) designed for integration into demanding industrial automation and embedded systems. While not a traditional PLC module itself, this board is a critical component often used to add sophisticated computing, communication, and control capabilities to PLC-based systems, industrial PCs (IPCs), and customized controller cabinets. Engineered for reliability, the TEWS TPMC866-11 serves as a powerful engine for data processing, gateway functions, and HMI operations in harsh environments. Based on proven PC/104-Plus form factor technology, this SBC from TEWS Technologies provides a compact and powerful solution for expanding system intelligence. For engineers looking to enhance their control architecture with reliable computing power, the TEWS TPMC866-11 is a prime candidate, with full details available via the product link.

Key technical parameters for the TEWS TPMC866-11 include:

• Form Factor: PC/104-Plus (90mm x 96mm)
• Processor: Features a low-power, high-performance x86-compatible CPU (specific model varies by version, e.g., AMD Geode LX800).
• Memory: Onboard DDR SDRAM (typically 256MB or 512MB) and solid-state storage via CompactFlash socket.
• Graphics & Display: Integrated graphics controller supporting CRT, LVDS, and TTL flat panel displays, crucial for local operator interfaces.
• Connectivity: Rich I/O including multiple USB 2.0 ports, 10/100 Ethernet, serial ports (RS-232/485), and a parallel port.
• Expansion: PC/104-Plus expansion bus for stacking additional I/O modules (data acquisition, relay, etc.).
• Operating Temperature: Wide operating range, often from -40°C to +85°C, suitable for extreme industrial conditions.
• Power Supply: Typically +5V DC operation.

Advantages and Distinctive Features

The primary advantage of the TEWS TPMC866-11 is its combination of standard PC architecture with industrial ruggedness and a modular, stackable form factor. Its compact size and low power consumption make it ideal for space-constrained or mobile applications. The board’s wide operating temperature range and robust construction ensure long-term reliability where commercial-grade PCs would fail. The integrated PC/104-Plus bus allows for cost-effective and flexible system expansion, enabling engineers to create tailored solutions by adding specific I/O, communication, or data acquisition cards directly onto the stack. The reliability and flexibility of the TEWS TPMC866-11 make it an excellent choice for upgrading legacy systems or developing new, compact industrial controllers.

Application Scenarios and Use Cases

This SBC is widely used in applications requiring embedded intelligence at the machine or process level. A common use case is as an embedded machine controller, where the TEWS TPMC866-11 runs a real-time operating system (RTOS) or lightweight Linux distribution to handle complex logic, data logging, and communication protocols, acting as a supervisory controller alongside traditional PLCs. It is also extensively deployed in industrial communication gateways, translating between fieldbus protocols (like PROFIBUS, CANopen) and Ethernet/IP or cloud services. Another key application is within transportation systems (rail, maritime) for onboard monitoring and control systems, leveraging its wide temperature tolerance. The TEWS TPMC866-11 is also perfect for custom HMI panels and test & measurement equipment in industrial settings.

Comparison with Competing Products

Compared to other embedded SBCs in the PC/104 form factor from competitors like Advantech or Kontron, the TEWS TPMC866-11 is distinguished by its specific blend of processor performance, I/O configuration, and ruggedization. It often competes with Raspberry Pi Compute Modules or BeagleBone-based solutions in terms of functionality; however, the TEWS TPMC866-11 offers a more industrialized, connectorized, and expansion-ready platform with guaranteed long-term availability, which is critical for industrial product lifecycles. Unlike proprietary PLC CPUs, it offers the flexibility of a standard software environment (Windows, Linux, VxWorks) while maintaining an industrial-grade hardware profile.

Selection Guidelines and Important Considerations

Selecting the correct embedded SBC requires careful planning beyond just the hardware specs.

1. Software & OS Compatibility: First, verify that your required operating system (e.g., a specific Linux kernel, QNX, Windows Embedded) and all necessary drivers are fully supported for the exact revision of the TEWS TPMC866-11.
2. Expansion Requirements: Audit your I/O needs. The PC/104-Plus stack height and power budget must accommodate any additional modules you plan to use with the base board.
3. Environmental Fit: Confirm that the board’s operating temperature range, shock, and vibration specifications meet or exceed the requirements of your target installation environment.
4. Long-Term Availability: For multi-year projects, consider the manufacturer’s product lifecycle policy. Industrial SBCs like the TEWS TPMC866-11 typically have longer availability than consumer-grade components.
5. Development Support: Ensure you have access to necessary technical documentation, BIOS source code (if required), and board support packages (BSPs) to streamline software development and integration.

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