Pepperl+Fuchs and Rockwell Automation announced a partnership that will make ThinManager software (a Rockwell Automation technology) even easier and more secure for operators and technicians. Originally developed by Rockwell Automation over 25 years ago, the ThinManager platform is used by operators and technicians in manufacturing and process plants for centralized management of thin client devices and content delivery.
Through joint development, Rockwell Automation and Pepperl+Fuchs offer a complete portfolio of ThinManager software products, ready to deploy and use, designed to meet the needs of any customer application. This includes everything from specialized HMIs and thin clients for industrial units to the recently introduced line of Pepperl+Fuchs tablet devices.
The Tab-IND and Pad-Ex tablets are released with an embedded ThinManager BIOS and no other pre-installed OS. This allows users to download firmware directly from ThinManager, transforming the tablets into centrally managed endpoints, providing mobile visualization for frontline workers in harsh industrial and even hazardous environments. This also enhances the solution's cybersecurity.
Pepperl+Fuchs offers hardware solutions for two application areas: non-hazardous and hazardous areas.
Tab-IND tablets for non-hazardous areas have the following characteristics:
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Industrial-grade 8-inch and 10-inch tablets with bright 700 and 800 cd/m² displays for outdoor use, including glove and pen support
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Quick access button and fingerprint sensor for quick authentication
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The rugged unit, designed to last at least 5 years, offers an extended temperature range from -20°C to 50°C
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SmartBack technology allows for easy integration of USB accessories
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Accessories include scanner frames, docking stations, holders, and power supplies.
Pad-ex tablets for hazardous locations up to Class I, Div. 2 / Zone 2 have the following features:
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11-inch field mobile tablet and desktop PC with up to 8.5 hours of battery life
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12th Generation Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 16GB RAM and 256GB of internal storage with NVMe, PCle, and SSD
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Connects to the docking station via a 35" Pogo connector.
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I/O ports: one Thunderbolt 4, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type A), one micro-HDMI, one audio in/out (combo jack), one microSD card (microSDXC), and one DC-in
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Supports 4G LTE / Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 (802.11 ax), augmented reality, and Bluetooth 5.3