What is a B&R Panel PC 2200?

The B&R Panel PC 2200 is a compact, high-performance industrial computer designed for seamless integration into automation systems. It is an innovative PC design based on Intel's Apollo Lake architecture, which utilizes efficient dual- and quad-core processors. This architecture represents a significant milestone for embedded systems, offering an optimal balance of price and performance. The unit is designed to transform compatible B&R Automation Panels into a complete, full-featured PC system without significantly increasing the physical depth of the installation.

Key Specifications and Design

The core of the Panel PC 2200 is its Intel Apollo Lake processor platform, known for its low power consumption and robust performance in embedded applications. A key design feature is its ultra-compact housing, which is no larger than a standard DVI/Smart Display Link receiver, allowing for a discreet and space-saving installation behind an existing panel. It integrates all critical interfaces directly, supporting various display sizes including 15.6" and 21.5" with options for single-touch or multi-touch capacitive (PCAP) screens. This all-in-one design consolidates computing power and display into a single, ruggedized unit built for 24/7 industrial environments.

Primary Use Cases and Applications

This type of industrial panel PC is engineered for demanding automation and control environments. Its primary applications include:

• Factory Automation & HMI: Serving as a central human-machine interface (HMI) for controlling and monitoring production lines, robotics, and machinery.

• Process Control: Managing and visualizing complex processes in industries like pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and chemical processing.

• Machine Vision Systems: Providing the local computing power needed for quality inspection and guidance systems directly on the factory floor.

• Kiosks and Interactive Displays: Used in public spaces or industrial settings for information display and user interaction, benefiting from its integrated touch screen and robust construction.

Thinvent Industrial Panel PCs and Solutions

While the B&R Panel PC 2200 is a specific model from another manufacturer, Thinvent offers a comprehensive range of industrial computing solutions built with similar rugged reliability and performance for automation tasks.

Thinvent Industrial PCs (IPCs) are designed to thrive in harsh conditions, featuring fanless designs for silent operation and dust resistance, wide operating temperature ranges, and robust metal enclosures. They are ideal for direct replacement or new installations in industrial settings.

For applications requiring an integrated display, Thinvent's All-in-One Panel PCs provide a complete solution. These units combine a high-brightness, industrial-grade touchscreen display with a powerful embedded computer in one sealed package. They are perfect for creating custom HMIs, interactive kiosks, and control panels where space is at a premium and reliability is critical. Thinvent's solutions offer the flexibility in processing power, memory, storage, and software to meet the specific demands of your industrial automation project.