Batch processing typically involves raw materials that are combined to mix or react in a certain sequence over a period of time to produce the completed output. Often, different recipes are used to combine the materials in different ways and with different sequences to change the outcome. Automation is used in batch processing to precisely control quantities, times and sequences resulting in superior consistency of the output.
With its ample storage capacity, flexibility and processing capabilities, the ICL-4300 "PC in a Brick" is quite suitable for control of batch processes. With up to 8 megabytes of nonvolatile storage capacity and 1 megabyte of RAM, there is plenty of room to store multiple recipes and parameters for complex batch operations and to execute sophisticated control programs.
Application development can be done in a number of different languages -- just choose the language(s) you are most comfortable with:
In addition to the basic features required for batch process control, the PC in a Brick has many more capabilities not found in a typical PLC or batch controller, such as ethernet and TCP/IP connectivity, alarm detection and annunciation (via voice, alphanumeric/numeric pager, etc.), data and alarm logging and several user interface options (textual, third party MMI, Web-based). To find out more, click here.