Advantech introduces industrial gateway series

Advantech recently introduced its new ICR-1600 series of industrial 4G connectivity gateways. This range is specifically designed to meet the increasing need for dependable and cost-efficient network connectivity in industrial settings.

The ICR-1600 series delivers strong performance, flexibility, and advanced features to support a variety of M2M and IoT applications, such as environmental monitoring, vending machines, and surveillance systems. Key models, including the ICR-1602, ICR-1642, and ICR-1645, offer seamless integration of Ethernet devices and serial buses with LTE cellular networks, addressing essential network connectivity requirements.

The ICR-1600 series is equipped with an LTE Cat4 cellular module and utilises a system-on-module design, integrating the ICR-OS directly onto the cellular module. This approach results in a compact and cost-efficient router that maintains high performance. The series supports up to five Ethernet ports, optional serial interfaces (1 RS232 + 1 RS485), I/O interfaces (1 DI, 1 DO), and optional Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), making it versatile for a range of industrial settings.

Built to endure harsh conditions, the ICR-1600 series operates within a temperature range of -40 to 75°C and boasts a rugged IP30-rated metal chassis. Dual SIM slots provide backup connectivity, ensuring continuous network availability in challenging environments where reliability is paramount. The routers also support a power input range of 9 to 48 VDC, allowing compatibility with various industrial power systems, and offer an optional DIN-rail mount for secure installation in control cabinets.

The ICR-1600 series integrates seamlessly with WebAccess/DMP, Advantech’s intelligent software platform designed for provisioning, monitoring, and managing its routers and IoT gateways. This platform ensures secure, zero-touch device enablement, streamlining pre-provisioning and configuration processes regardless of deployment size.

With full multi-tenancy support, WebAccess/DMP allows permissions-enabled power-user management, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of industrial applications. Additionally, it provides real-time, scalable device health monitoring and an extensible architecture for integration with existing services through a secure RESTful API.

ICR-OS, the operating system for Advantech cellular routers, offers a user-friendly web GUI for easy configuration and monitoring. This Linux-based OS ensures strong cybersecurity and future-proof deployment options through re-development capabilities. The ICR-1600 series also includes comprehensive software support, with advanced security measures such as HTTPS, SSH, VPN tunnelling, and various authentication and encryption methods.

It further offers extensive firmware management features, including automatic over-the-air updates and diagnostic functions. These capabilities ensure that the ICR-1600 series can meet the stringent demands of industrial applications, while upholding high standards of security and performance.

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