The leader in industrial automation and control solutions

What’s the difference between an industrial PC and a consumer PC?

Maple Systems industrial PC family.

The difference between an industrial PC and consumer PC can be hard to spot. Industrial PCs are built for the toughest environments where debris, moisture, temperatures, and vibrations are extremely volatile. Consumer PCs are built for basic tasks and can’t withstand harsh industrial conditions. Table of Contents Industrial settings aren’t often pretty. Steel mills with…

Digital I/O ports

Digital IO ports

Digital Input/Output (DIO) ports included with industrial PCs provide extra flexibility for those who require fine-tuned control in their projects. Due to their simple yet flexible nature, Digital I/O ports allow for more robust and versatile systems that can be tailored to a wide variety of specific use cases. In this article we dive into…

Optical bonding

Optical bonding cross-section

Imagine a touchscreen so clear and responsive that it feels like you’re touching the content directly, yet durable enough to withstand the harshest industrial environment. Optical bonding is the process that makes this possible. Table of Contents What is optical bonding? Before we get into the specifics of the optical bonding process, it is important…

What is a SCADA System and How Does It Work?

What is SCADA? How Does it Work?

SCADA Systems offer an opportunity for any network of devices to communicate the necessary information for more advanced monitoring, alarm detection, management, and more. This section explores the usage of SCADA systems, their common applications, and the ease of integrating devices into existing systems. Table of Contents SCADA Overview Imagine a system that seamlessly integrates…

Industrial PCs with 4G/LTE connectivity

Maple Systems IPC with antenna

Industrial PCs with 4G/LTE connectivity ensure seamless communication and long-term operation in challenging environments without stable internet connections. With access provided by cellular data plans just like mobile devices, PCs with cellular connectivity can connect from virtually anywhere. This article discusses the some of the advantages of using Industrial PCs with 4G/LTE connectivity. Table of…

What is an HMI?

What is an HMI?

From flipping a power switch to sending complex instructions during operations, users need a way to interact with the devices they are working with. The Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides a point of contact between operators and their machinery that is a fundamental aspect of industrial control design. In this article we will explore the history…

Everything you need to know about HMIs

Top HMI choices for your industrial application.

Human-Machine Interfaces, or HMIs, are access terminals on machinery, in management stations, and countless remote locations that give plant personnel and other end users a way to visually monitor and adjust automated operations, machine controls, and output functions. HMI hardware traditionally integrates compact control electronics and a ruggedized display screen or touchscreen. Table of Contents…