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Lists the primary applications for the PPC/EPC-A8-097-C Industrial PC.
Details on product availability as embedded or cased solutions and customization options.
Lists the operating systems that can be pre-installed or obtained for the device.
Information on optional Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 3G/4G/LTE modules.
Details the pin assignment and function of the 3-pin power input connector.
Describes the 5-point capacitive touch screen and its connection to the motherboard.
Details the 12-pin connector for RS232, RS485, and CAN serial communication.
Details the four Type A USB HOST connectors and the USB OTG functionality.
Describes the RJ45 Ethernet connector supporting up to 1 Gbps data throughput.
Details the Realtek RTL8723 WiFi/BT module for wireless connectivity.
Information on connecting 3G/4G/LTE modules via mini-PCIe connector.
Details the 10-pin GPIO connector for general purpose input/output signals.
Details the single TF Card slot for storage expansion up to 32GB.
Describes the 3.5mm audio input and output jacks for audio peripherals.
Explains the DIP switch settings for boot configuration and OS reflash.
Details how to mount the industrial PC using M4 screws and fixtures.
Provides outer mechanical dimensions and technical drawings for EPC and PPC variants.
The Chipsee PPC/EPC-A8-097-C is a high-quality industrial PC designed for a wide range of applications, functioning as both an embedded solution and a device housed in an aluminum casing with bezels. This versatility allows for various installation options, including integration into industrial cabinets or existing equipment. Its core applications span Human Machine Interface (HMI), process control, process monitoring, infotainment, predictive maintenance, machine learning, machine vision, automotive applications, and gaming.
At its heart, the PPC/EPC-A8-097-C Industrial PC is built around the powerful CS-SOM335X-V3 System on Module (SoM), which is driven by the AM3354 Arm® Cortex®-A8 microprocessor unit (MPU). This MPU is specifically enhanced with capabilities for image and graphics processing, a variety of peripherals, and industrial interface options such as EtherCAT and PROFIBUS, ensuring support for high-level operating systems (HLOS). The ARM Cortex-A8 processor-based MPU subsystem, combined with the PowerVR SGX™ Graphics Accelerator subsystem, provides robust 3D graphics acceleration, making it suitable for display and gaming effects. A notable design aspect is that the AM33554 MPU generates minimal heat, allowing the thin aluminum housing of the PPC version to provide sufficient thermal dissipation without requiring additional cooling solutions.
The device features a 9.7-inch resistive touch screen, offering a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels and a brightness of 350 cd/m², ensuring clear and responsive interaction. The touch screen is a 5-point capacitive type, providing multi-touch functionality. For power input, the PPC/EPC-A8-097-C accepts a wide range of DC voltages, from 6V to 42V, through a 3-pin, 3.81mm terminal. The polarity and pinout are clearly marked on the housing of the PPC version and on the PCB of the EPC version, simplifying connection. The "+" sign indicates the positive power input, while the "-" terminal is shorted to ground. It's important to note that the system ground "G" is connected to the power negative "-" on the board.
Connectivity is a key strength of the PPC/EPC-A8-097-C. It includes three USB 2.0 Host ports and one USB OTG port, which can be customized to function as two Host ports. For network connectivity, it features one channel of 100M LAN (RJ45) Ethernet connector, capable of supporting data throughput up to 1 Gbps. Serial communication is handled by five UART terminals, configurable as RS232 or RS485, and also includes CAN bus support. These serial interfaces are routed to a 12-pin, 3.81mm terminal. The device also offers onboard WiFi/BT as an optional feature, utilizing a Realtek RTL8723 module that supports BT/BLE 4.0 (with backward compatibility) and 802.11bgn 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN (WLAN). For the enclosed (PPC) variant, an SMA connector is provided for an external WiFi/BT antenna. Additionally, a mini-PCIe connector allows for the integration of a 3G/4G/LTE module, requiring a SIM Card Holder and a 3G/4G/LTE Antenna Connector for full functionality.
For general purpose input/output, the industrial PC is equipped with a 10-pin, 3.81mm GPIO Connector, labeled as P18 on the PCB. This GPIO is opt-isolated and uses 24V Logic by default, driven by the onboard VDD, eliminating the need for an external isolated power input. The four output channels are robust, capable of driving up to 500mA current each. Users also have the flexibility to use the power input that connects to the Power Input Connector or the 5V voltage on-board as power input for the GPIO, with a simple resistor modification.
Storage is facilitated by a TF Card (micro SD) slot, supporting up to 32GB SDHC memory. Audio capabilities include a 3.5mm audio input jack and a 3.5mm audio output jack. On the embedded panel PC version, these are typically represented by pink (input) and blue (output) connectors, while the enclosed panel PC version has clearly marked audio input and output ports. The device also incorporates a miniature 2W embedded speaker for audio reproduction and a small buzzer for alarms or notifications.
Maintenance and configuration are straightforward. The PPC/EPC-A8-097-C supports booting from an SD card, which is useful for reflashing the Operating System (OS). A DIP switch allows for boot configuration settings, though these typically do not need to be altered during regular operation. Detailed instructions for reflashing the OS are provided in the Software Documentation. The product comes with a pre-installed OS of choice, with supported options including Android 4.1, Linux with Qt 4.8, Linux with Qt 5.5, Debian 7.4, Debian 8.4, and Angstrom v2012.12. Users are advised to consult the Software Documentation for self-installation, with a warning about potential damage if procedures are not followed correctly.
Mounting the PPC/EPC-A8-097-C is designed for ease, utilizing eight M4 screws for installation onto standard mounting fixtures. For panel mounting of the PPC-A8-097-C industrial PC, the device can be fixed from the front into a panel with a recommended maximum thickness of 8mm. The process involves ensuring correct panel PC configuration, pushing the unit straight into the panel hole until it sits flat, and then using mounting fixtures to secure it in place. The Boot Switch is located inside the housing, meaning the Panel PC must be unmounted to access it.
Chipsee offers customization options during the ordering process, allowing users to tailor the product to specific requirements. By default, the product ships with pre-installed factory settings if no extra requirements are specified. The WiFi/BT module and 3G/4G modules are optional and can be selected during the ordering process or sourced from third-party suppliers for the 3G/4G/LTE module. Installation, repair, and maintenance tasks should only be performed by trained personnel to avoid damage. Technical support is available via email for any difficulties or questions, encouraging users to provide all relevant information for assistance.
General| Resolution | 1024 x 768 |
|---|---|
| RAM | 512MB DDR3 |
| Storage | 4GB eMMC |
| Power Supply | DC 12V |
| WiFi | 802.11 b/g/n |
| USB | 2 x USB 2.0 |
| Display Size | 9.7 inches |
| Operating System | Linux |
| Connectivity | Ethernet, USB |
| Ethernet | 10/100M |
| Bluetooth | 4.0 |
| Serial Ports | 2 x RS232, 2 x RS485 |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 60°C |
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