Contec has developed a CAN communication board intended for use in automotive parts inspection, and began selling it on June 27, 2024, as the PCI Express compatible 4-channel isolated CAN FD/2.0B communication board "CAN-4PF-PE/CAN-4P-PE" (hereinafter referred to as the new product). The new product is a PCI Express bus compatible board that expands the CAN communication functionality of a computer. The CAN-4P-PE complies with CAN2.0B communication and supports a maximum communication speed of 1 Mbps. The CAN-4PF-PE supports both CAN2.0B communication and the extended format CAN FD communication, allowing for data communication at speeds of up to 5 Mbps. It is designed for use in automotive parts inspection within factories and is equipped with four channels of CAN communication ports that can handle multiple parts inspections simultaneously, with each channel independently isolated. 【Main Features】 ● CAN2.0 communication and CAN FD communication functionality ● Isolation between CAN communication channels and bus isolation from the computer ● Individual buffers for each transmission and reception ● Isolation between channels and between the computer, with surge protection for signal lines ● Includes channel distribution cable ● Device drivers compatible with Windows are provided

Contec has developed the IEEE802.11ah compatible wireless access point "SGA1000" (hereinafter referred to as the new product), which utilizes 920MHz sub-gigahertz wireless technology to enable Ethernet communication wirelessly up to 1km away. Orders will begin on June 25, 2024. The new product is a compactly designed IEEE802.11ah compatible wireless access point that can be used in various installation locations. The new Wi-Fi standard "IEEE802.11ah," which utilizes sub-gigahertz wireless communication, became available in Japan in September 2022. It operates in the 920MHz band without the need for a license and can be used outdoors. Compared to traditional 920MHz wireless communication, it enables high-speed communication and the establishment of long-distance networks, making it expected to be utilized in large factories, plants, and farms. The new wireless access point features a compact design and comes with a mounting bracket, allowing for installation in various locations such as walls and DIN rails. Additionally, it supports external antennas, enabling the construction of highly flexible wireless LAN systems.

Contec has developed an ultra-compact, fanless embedded computer (the "BX-U310 series" with 8 models) equipped with the Intel Atom(R) Processor x6413E (Elkhart Lake), and will begin accepting orders on June 18, 2024. The new product is a fanless embedded computer featuring the Intel Atom(R) Processor x6413E. Despite its ultra-small design (110mm wide × 80mm deep × 45mm thick), it is equipped with expansion interfaces that can accommodate various applications. It includes HDMI ×1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 ×2, and LAN ×2, and there are also models with built-in wireless LAN, making it ideal for IoT gateway devices and edge computers that connect IT networks and field networks. Additionally, it incorporates many features aimed at industrial usability, such as a fanless wide temperature range design*1 and "Power Cut Protection(R)"*2 that supports operation without the need for shutdown during power interruptions. *1 -10 to +60℃ Airflow 0.7m/s *2 Only for models equipped with M.2 SSD

Contec has started selling two types of digital outputs as new products in the CONPROSYS(R) nano series from June 13, 2024. The new products are expansion modules that add digital output functionality to the CPU coupler unit of the remote I/O system CONPROSYS(R) nano series, which pursues cost performance and ease of use. Additionally, the new products can also be used as expansion modules to add digital output functionality to modular USB I/O units. 【Main Features】 ●CPSN-DO-16L Equipped with 16 points of phototransistor-isolated open collector output (current sink type). Designed for use with external circuit power supply of 12 to 24VDC. ●CPSN-DO-16BL Equipped with 16 points of phototransistor-isolated open collector output (current sink type). Includes a built-in power supply for phototransistor drive.

We have released a new version of the free download analog waveform output software "C-WaveformGenerator" that supports API control from external applications. "C-WaveformGenerator" is PC-based software that can generate various waveform signals using our measurement and control boards with analog output capabilities. It can output waveform signals as a substitute for benchtop signal generators (function generators) and can be used to build measurement control and inspection systems. With the support for an API that allows control of various settings and the start/stop of waveform output from external applications, users can utilize the various waveform output functions of "C-WaveformGenerator" from their applications. During application debugging, you can adjust the output waveform using the GUI of "C-WaveformGenerator" like a benchtop measuring instrument, and switch to API control for starting/stopping output upon completion, thereby reducing the man-hours required for system construction.

Contec Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce that it has joined NVIDIA's partner program, the "NVIDIA Partner Network (hereinafter referred to as NPN)," and has become the first company in Japan to be recognized as a "NVIDIA Jetson(TM) Ecosystem Member," focusing primarily on hardware products. Since February 2021, Contec has been selling the DX-U1000/U2000 series, which is equipped with the NVIDIA Jetson(TM) module, as industrial edge AI computers. By becoming a member of the NPN and the NVIDIA Jetson ecosystem, which includes over 170 companies, we aim to further expand business opportunities through strengthened collaboration.

Contec has developed an ultra-compact industrial computer equipped with the Intel Celeron J6412 processor, and has started accepting orders for the new LPC-400 series, which is the smallest size in the business computer LPC series, from April 23, 2024. The new product features a power-efficient quad-core CPU, the Intel Celeron J6412 processor, and achieves a low price point with a fanless structure that is resistant to dust. It boasts an ultra-compact size of 150(W) × 150(D) × 33(H) mm, and comes with a vertical stand and VESA mounting brackets, allowing for installation in tight spaces on desks or behind displays without concern for location. Additionally, it is equipped with a security slot as a theft prevention measure, making it safe for use in open spaces such as factory systems, retail store POS, and hospital reception areas. It can also be wall-mounted using the provided brackets, making it suitable for embedded applications. The new product adopts a BTO (Build To Order) method, allowing customers to freely choose memory capacity, storage, OS, and more, enabling selection of products with optimal specifications according to their needs and budget.

The Raspberry Pi(R) HAT-sized board CPI series has now been made compatible with ASUS's industrial compact single-board computer (SBC) Tinker Board 2/2S. [Compatible Tinker Board Models [Supported OS]] ● Tinker Board 2 [Debian 10 v2.1.16 (kernel 4.19.232) / Debian 11 v3.0.11 (kernel 5.10.160)] ● Tinker Board 2S [Debian 10 v2.1.16 (kernel 4.19.232) / Debian 11 v3.0.11 (kernel 5.10.160)]

Contec has developed a unit that expands CAN communication via USB from a computer, and began selling it as "CAN-2-USB" on April 16, 2024. The new product is a CAN/USB converter unit that connects to the USB port of a computer to extend its CAN communication capabilities. It complies with CAN 2.0B communication and supports a maximum communication speed of 1 Mbps. It features a USB Type-C port and can operate via bus power from the host. It is compatible with the SAE J2534 diagnostic protocol for automotive ECUs, making it usable as a diagnostic tool during vehicle maintenance and as a communication interface during ECU programming. Additionally, an API that supports low-level data transmission and reception is provided, allowing it to be used as a CAN communication device for automotive parts inspection and ECU testing. 【Main Features】 ● CAN communication functionality ● No external power supply required due to bus-powered operation ● Supports a wide range power supply of 10 - 32VDC ● Support software compatible with Windows is available

Contec Co., Ltd. has developed the wireless LAN access points "FLEXLAN(R) FXA5000 and FXA5020," equipped with new features for mesh Wi-Fi and smart roaming, based on the concept of "pursuing uninterrupted wireless LAN." Orders will begin on April 9, 2024. The new products are wireless LAN access points compliant with the new standard Wi-Fi 6E (IEEE 802.11ax). New technologies such as OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and Spatial Reuse have been implemented, resulting in a communication speed that is 2.8 times faster than conventional products compliant with Wi-Fi 5 (IEEE 802.11ac). Additionally, significant improvements have been made in throughput reduction and latency that occurred when using multiple child stations simultaneously. With the addition of the new 6GHz band, alongside the traditional 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, radio interference is reduced, allowing for a faster and more stable communication environment.

Contec will start selling the software component collection "DAQfast Measurement System Development .NET Component Collection Ver.1.00 Product Version" (hereinafter referred to as the new product) for Visual Studio, which enables low-code development of inspection and measurement applications, on its e-shop starting today. Additionally, to commemorate the release of the product version, we will hold a launch campaign offering a coupon code for a 50% discount for users of the free version "DAQ-DNC-FE" from the early release on the CONTEC e-shop. The new product is a development support tool for inspection and measurement systems compatible with Microsoft's integrated development environment, Visual Studio. It includes numerous screen components that can be used with visual operations from the GUI, as well as components for controlling our measurement and control devices. It allows for the rapid development of application software by omitting and automating development processes with minimal coding, without requiring advanced coding knowledge or experience.

Contec has developed a unit for measurement and control via Ethernet and has started selling it as the Ethernet N series (models "DIO-1616RYN-ETH," "CNT-3204IN-ETH," "AI-1608VIN-ETH," "AI-1608AIN-ETH," "AO-1604VIN-ETH," and "AO-1604AIN-ETH" (hereinafter referred to as new products)). The new products similarly feature buffers and support input and output through sampling (analog input/output units). Measurement and control located remotely via Ethernet can be realized with a similar feel to our USB N series and PCI Express boards. The Ethernet N series already includes the DIO-1616LN-ETH, and with the addition of the newly released products, the lineup now consists of a total of seven models. 【Main Features】 ● Photocoupler isolated input, semiconductor relay output【Digital input/output unit】 ● 32-bit up/down counter【Counter input unit】 ● Various trigger conditions and sampling via clock are possible【Analog input unit】 ● Various trigger conditions and generating via clock are possible【Analog output unit】

Contec has started accepting orders for Microsoft Office LTSC 2021 Embedded pre-installed industrial PC products from March 14. Office LTSC 2021 Embedded is an office product designed for specific purpose terminals such as digital signage, POS, information kiosk terminals, reception terminals, production line control, and medical fields, similar to the operating system Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC. It does not receive feature updates that are typically delivered automatically, allowing it to be used in its initial state. This eliminates the need for re-evaluating the necessary terminals with each feature update, significantly reducing maintenance workload.

Contec Co., Ltd. has started selling the compact embedded PoE-compatible switching hub "SH-9008AT-POE2," which supports a wide range of power input from 12 to 54VDC and allows for cascade connection between devices, starting March 5, 2024. The new product is an 8-port industrial switching hub that supports PoE power supply compliant with IEEE802.3af and IEEE802.3at, and adheres to the IEEE802.3ab (1000BASE-T), IEEE802.3u (100BASE-TX), and IEEE802.3 (10BASE-T) standards. It is designed to operate in a wide temperature range of -40 to 70°C, making it suitable for environments where general-purpose switching hubs cannot be used. In settings such as production lines in automotive and electronic component factories, food and pharmaceutical factories, logistics warehouses, and commercial stores, network cameras are often installed with a unified DC power supply, making wide-range DC power support a challenge. The new product addresses these challenges by offering a wide range DC power input of 12 to 54VDC and the capability for cascade connection between devices, making it an environmentally resilient industrial PoE-compatible switching hub.

Contec Corporation has developed a fanless embedded computer (the "BX-M3010 series" with 4 models) equipped with the 8th generation Intel Core processor (Whiskey Lake-U), and will begin accepting orders on February 20, 2024. The new product is an embedded computer that achieves a compact size similar to A5 paper (189(W)×147.8(D)×61.5(H)mm) while featuring the 8th generation Intel Celeron(R) and Core(TM) i5 processors (Whiskey Lake-U). It is equipped with a rich array of expansion interfaces including DisplayPort ×1, HDMI ×1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB 3.1) ×4, LAN ×2, a slot-in type 2.5-inch SATA disk slot, RS-232C/422/485 ×1, and RS-232C ×2, as well as an M.2 card slot for expanding various functions according to application needs. Additionally, it includes many features designed for industrial applications, such as a fanless wide temperature range design and "Power Interrupt Protection(R)" that supports operation without the need for shutdown during power interruptions.

Contec has released a stack-type model that allows for flexible configuration of various I/O modules in its M2M Gateway series under the comprehensive industrial IoT brand "CONPROSYS(R)". The new product maintains the functionality of the CONPROSYS(R) M2M Gateway while enabling the realization of a controller that can accommodate various signal sources by stacking different I/O modules. There are two models: the standard stack-type M2M Gateway (CPS-MGS341-DS1-131) and the LTE SIM-free communication module equipped model for the Japanese market (CPS-MGS341G5-DS1-130). The controllers in the "CONPROSYS(R)" lineup, including the new products, are equipped with a variety of functions required for industrial IoT devices, contributing to the reduction of development man-hours in IoT system construction.

Contec has developed and started selling a fanless touch panel computer equipped with an Intel Atom x6413E (Elkhart Lake) processor, adopting a 10.1-inch capacitive touch screen (one model from the "PT-D10WB-300 series" and one model from the "PT-M10WB-300 series"). The CPU performance is approximately 3.3 times that of our previous model (PT-D10WB-100) (*1), and it features an expansion interface that allows connection of legacy devices with 5 USB 2.0 ports, 2 LAN ports, and 3 RS-232C ports. Additionally, it is equipped with a built-in UPS battery that can operate for over 5 minutes in the event of a power failure or momentary power interruption, contributing to improved system stability and reliability by allowing the OS to be automatically shut down using the included utility software. The display section of the PT-D10WB-300 series can be adjusted in angle and can be completely closed like a laptop by tilting it forward 90 degrees. (*1) Based on PassMark benchmark scores. Actual performance may vary depending on the usage environment and tasks.

Contec has started selling the PCI Express compatible Gigabit LAN board "CNET1000-1T-PE," which is suitable for industrial applications requiring high reliability, from January 11, 2024. The new product features one LAN port compliant with IEEE802.3ab (1000BASE-T) and is designed for Low Profile size slots. It supports long-term stable supply and a wide operating temperature range (-40 to 75°C), making it reliable for use in production equipment, plant factories, and social infrastructure. The new product can be installed in both Low Profile and standard size slots by replacing the included bracket, allowing for the expansion of LAN ports on various types of industrial computers. 【Main Features】 ● Low Profile size compliant with IEEE802.3ab (1000BASE-T) ● Compatible with Low Profile size/standard size slots (bracket included) ● Operating temperature range of -40 to 75°C ● Drivers available for Windows/Linux

Contec has developed a high-performance touch panel PC equipped with the 7th generation Intel(R) Core(TM) i5 processor (Kaby Lake U) and will start accepting orders for the new product "Panel Computer XPT-T1010 Series (hereinafter referred to as XPT-T1010)" from December 26, 2023. The new product XPT-T1010 is a panel computer that changes the CPU and touch panel LCD from the conventional product "XPT-T1000 Series," which is equipped with a 7th generation Intel(R) Core(TM) i7 processor. The CPU features a 7th generation Intel(R) Core(TM) i5 processor (Kaby Lake U), and the touch panel LCD is available in 12.1 inches, compatible with the mounting dimensions of our panel computer PT-955LXC series (discontinued product). The XPT-T1010 adopts a BTO (Build-To-Order) method that allows customers to freely choose storage, RAID, OS, and more, enabling them to select products with optimal specifications according to their applications and budgets.

Contec has developed a PC expansion slot extension box (1 model) and started selling it on December 19, 2023, as the "PCI Express Extension Method PCI Bus Expansion Chassis ECH-PCI-DE2-F13A." The new product is an expansion chassis that allows for the addition of 13 PCI bus slots from a PC's PCI Express bus slot. The PC and this expansion chassis are connected via a separately sold expansion bus adapter (EAD-DE-LPE). The new product can accommodate up to 13 long-size PCI boards. Additionally, it can turn the power ON/OFF in sync with the PC, and it features a steel chassis with a built-in cooling fan, making it suitable for use in the field. 【Main Features】 ● Allows for the addition of 13 PCI slots to the main PC ● Power can be turned ON/OFF in sync with the PC ● Features a steel chassis with a built-in cooling fan ● Wall mountable 【Main Specifications】 ■ Method: PCI Express Cable (Type DE) ■ Number of User Slots: 13 slots ■ Board Size: Long size ■ Input Power: 100 ~ 240VAC

Contec has developed the Ethernet wireless converters "RP-WAH-SR1" and "RP-WAH-SR2," which utilize 920MHz sub-gigahertz wireless (802.11ah) to enable wireless Ethernet communication up to 1km away, and began sales on December 12, 2023. The new products are compact IEEE802.11ah compliant wireless LAN converters that can be installed in various locations. Their lightweight and compact design, along with the included mounting bracket, allows for installation on walls and DIN rails, among other places. Additionally, they support external antennas, enabling the construction of highly flexible wireless LAN systems. 【Main Features】 ● Compliant with IEEE802.11ah standard ● Supports 920MHz band wireless with excellent transmission distance ● High-speed communication capable of video transmission ● Switchable between station (slave) and access point (master) modes ● Compatible with various power supplies and a wide temperature range

Contec has developed a fanless embedded computer that balances space-saving and expandability, equipped with the Intel Atom x6413E (Elkhart Lake) processor, consisting of 6 models in the "BX-M310 series" and 9 models in the "BX-T310 series" (hereinafter referred to as new products), and has started accepting orders from December 5, 2023. The CPU performance of both series is about twice that of our previous models (BX-M210, BX-T210), and they are equipped with a DisplayPort ×1, USB 3.2 Gen2 (USB 3.1) ×2, USB 2.0 ×4, LAN ×2, as well as expansion interfaces that support legacy device connections such as an analog RGB port and RS-232C ×2. The BX-M310 series includes a slot-in type 2.5-inch SATA disk slot and an interface with RS-232C ×4 (with one port switchable to RS-422A/485). The new products feature a fanless wide temperature range design and functions such as "Power Cut Protection®," which supports operation without the need for shutdown during power interruptions, making them ideal for applications such as small unmanned transport vehicles and vehicle embedding.

Contec has developed a Windows-compatible industrial tablet PC with excellent robustness and reliability compliant with MIL standards, and will begin accepting orders on December 4, 2023. The new product is a tablet-type all-in-one computer that features shock resistance, water resistance, and dust resistance in accordance with MIL standards (MIL-STD-810). It is equipped with a 10.1-inch wide LCD panel that supports 10-point multi-touch, and runs on Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, an embedded version of Windows, allowing for intuitive touch operations such as pinch zoom and scrolling. With an IP65 rating, it can be safely used in dust-heavy factories and food factories where water exposure may occur. It offers up to 9 hours of continuous operation and uses a replaceable cartridge-type battery. The new product comes with a variety of accessories, including docking stations, protective covers, and stylus pens, making it suitable not only as a mobile device for business use but also for various applications in fixed installations.

Contec has developed a PC expansion slot extension box (1 model) and started selling it on November 21, 2023, under the name "PCI Express Extension Method PCI Bus Expansion Chassis ECH-PCI-DE2-F4B." The new product is an expansion chassis that allows for the addition of four PCI bus slots from a computer's PCI Express bus slot. The computer and this expansion chassis are connected via a separately sold expansion bus adapter (EAD-DE-LPE). As the latest computers are increasingly eliminating long-size (full-size) PCI bus slots, it has become difficult to continue using existing PCI long-size boards as assets in the field. By using the PCI Express extension method PCI bus expansion chassis, it becomes possible to use long-size PCI boards from the computer's PCI Express slot, allowing for the inheritance of existing system assets. The new product can accommodate up to four long-size PCI boards. Additionally, it can turn the power ON/OFF in sync with the computer, and it features a steel chassis with a built-in cooling fan, making it suitable for use in the field.

After reviewing how to utilize sensor information, we will introduce several successful IoT case studies and the IoT systems provided by Contec, while also touching on information collaboration with other IT systems, as well as the use of closed networks and the cloud. We will deliver a three-part series of explanatory columns focusing on "sensors" and "IoT devices." We hope this will be helpful in building your IoT systems. 【Table of Contents】 - What IoT Means in Factories - How to Utilize Collected Sensor Information - Centralized Management of Factory Equipment Operating Status through Visualization Systems - System Monitoring and Process Control Across Multiple Locations Using the Cloud - Case Study on Production Process Visualization: "Contec Komaki Office" - Utilizing Sensor Information with Contec's Solutions

To correctly connect sensors and IoT devices, it is essential to first focus on the sensor's interface. In the second installment of our explanatory column on "Sensors" and "IoT Devices," we will discuss how to select IoT devices while paying attention to the sensor's interface. We will deliver a three-part series of explanatory columns focusing on "Sensors" and "IoT Devices." We hope you find it useful for building your IoT systems. 【Table of Contents】 - What is an IoT Gateway? - The Role and Interface of IoT Gateways - Sensors that indicate ON/OFF (Digital Output) - Sensors where the number of ON/OFF signals has significance (Counters) - Sensors that indicate changes in physical quantities or the environment (Analog Output) - Sensors that convert data and send it out as communication (Communication Interface) - General-purpose products specialized in IoT gateway functions developed by Contec

When you hear "IoT (Internet of Things)," what images come to mind? As you start to tackle the realization of IoT with themes like "wanting to visualize the site," "wanting to improve production efficiency," and "wanting to detect signs of failure," you will first realize that you must solve the very practical issue of "how to collect data from the equipment on-site." This realization will highlight the gap between your envisioned smart IoT image and the reality. Where should you install which "sensors" on the equipment? How will the wiring be done? To choose the most suitable "sensors" for the information you want to acquire, you need to understand the types and characteristics of sensors. We will deliver a three-part explanatory column focusing on "sensors" and "IoT devices." We hope you find it useful for building your IoT system. This first installment, titled "Types of Sensors Essential for IoT and How to Use Them," will explain the sensors that can be used in IoT, focusing on the interface.

Contec has developed the highly expandable 19-inch rack-mounted FA computer "Solution-ePC(R) Series SPF14SQ1701," which can be equipped with a 7th generation Intel(R) Core(TM) processor or Celeron(R) processor, and has started accepting orders from October 24, 2023. The new product maintains the basic performance of the conventional model SPF14SQ1700, which primarily featured PCI expansion slots, while adopting a BTO (build-to-order) method equipped with PCI Express ×7 and PCI ×4 expansion slots to meet the needs for multiple PCI Express slots. Solution-ePC is an industrial computer that can be customized with BTO (build-to-order) according to customer requirements. It uses carefully selected components for "high reliability" and "stable supply," making it suitable for industrial applications. We provide a combination of selections and options for OS, CPU, memory, storage, and more based on customer requests.

Contec Corporation has developed an industrial motherboard, model GMB-AH61000, compatible with Intel's latest generation CPU, the 13th generation Intel(R) Core(TM) processor, and has started accepting orders from October 19, 2023. The newly announced product is an ATX standard-sized industrial motherboard that supports the 13th generation Intel Core processor (codename: Raptor Lake) CPU. It features high-performance CPUs with up to 24 cores (8 P-cores + 16 E-cores), DDR5 4800MHz memory, and PCI Express Gen5 local bus, benefiting from high cost performance unique to the latest generation while also supporting legacy device connections such as PCI, RS-232C/485, and analog RGB (DVI-I) for replacing existing equipment. Our company will continue to expand its lineup by sequentially releasing Micro ATX and Mini ITX standard-sized industrial motherboards compatible with the 13th generation Intel CPU.

In advance of the release of the latest version of the Contec comprehensive product catalog Ver.20, we will begin accepting advance reservations for material requests. If you are interested, please apply through the inquiry form or related links. Deliveries are scheduled to begin sequentially from early November 2023. 【Table of Contents】 A. Box Computer® BX - Energy-saving, Fanless B. Box Computer® EPC - High Power, Fan Cooling C. Edge AI Computer D. FA Computer, Custom Computer E. Application-equipped Models F. Panel Computer G. Industrial IoT H. Remote I/O I. Raspberry Pi Related Products J. Analog Input/Output K. Digital Input/Output L. Counter, Motion Control M. Serial Communication N. GPIB Communication O. Expansion Units, Bus Adapters P. Support Software Q. Accessories, Cables R. Network, Wireless LAN S. Solutions T. Services