ASRock Industrial Unveils The iEP-7030E Series Industrial IoT Controller

ASRock Industrial has recently launched the iEP-7030E Series Industrial IoT Controller, equipped with Intel® Core™ Ultra 7/5 Processors (Meteor Lake-U/H). This cutting-edge series is designed for intelligent edge computing, featuring significant upgrades in AI-capable CPU, GPU, and NPU to handle demanding AI workloads and edge applications efficiently.

The iEP-7030E Series leverages the advanced Intel® Core™ Ultra 7/5 Processors (Meteor Lake-U/H), which offer up to 16 cores and 22 threads (6P+8E+2LPE). This robust configuration enables high-performance AI computing at the edge, making it ideal for applications requiring real-time data processing and decision-making.

Enhanced Performance

• Intel® ARC™ Graphics: Integrated with up to eight Xe-cores and up to 128 graphics EUs, providing superior visual performance for applications involving computer vision and graphical processing.
• Intel® AI Boost: Delivers up to 1.5 times top-tier AI performance, 1.81 times graphics performance, and 2.56 times AI performance/power efficiency compared to previous generations.
• Memory Support: Dual DDR5 5600 MHz SO-DIMM memory up to 96GB, ensuring low power efficiency and high computing capability at the edge.
• In-Band ECC: Provides error correction for critical processes, ensuring data integrity and system reliability.

The iEP-7030E Series is designed with versatility in mind, offering various configurations and a wide range of I/O extensions to meet diverse industrial needs.

 Compact and Robust Design

• Size Variants: Available in compact, fan-less sizes: 55 x 170 x 134 mm for Basic and 8DIO SKUs, and 68 x 170 x 134 mm for PoE, 5LAN, and 5G SKUs, the iEP-7030E Series is built to fit seamlessly into different industrial environments.

 Extensive I/O Extensions

• Serial Ports: Four RS232/422/485 serial ports for reliable communication with legacy industrial equipment.
• Digital I/O: Support for eight digital inputs and eight digital outputs with 3KV isolation (exclusive to the 8DIO SKU).
• USB Ports: Three USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 ports and one USB 2.0 port for versatile peripheral connectivity.
• Audio Ports: One line out/mic in port to connect to various audio devices.
• LAN Ports: Three 2.5GbE Intel® i226-IT LAN ports, and two 1GbE Intel® i210-AT LAN ports available in PoE and 5LAN SKUs, with additional two optional Intel® i210-AT ports supporting IEEE 802.3AF PoE (PoE SKU exclusive).
• Display Ports: One DP++ 1.4a port and one VGA port for high-quality computer vision processing.

The iEP-7030E Series excels in providing advanced RF capabilities and extensive connectivity options, ensuring seamless IT/OT integration for various industrial applications.

 Robust RF Capabilities

• 4G LTE and 5G Support: Available in 5LAN-5G and 5G-WIFI SKUs, ensuring high-speed wireless communication.
• Wi-Fi 7/6E and Bluetooth 5.3/5.4: Available across multiple SKUs, enabling flexible and robust wireless connectivity.
• Antenna Configurations: Seven SMA connectors for Basic and 5G SKUs, and five SMA connectors for PoE and 5LAN SKUs, ensuring reliable data transmission.

Expansion Slots

• M.2 Key B Socket: Compatible with 3042/3052/2280 for 4G LTE/5G modules.
• M.2 Key E Socket: Supports 2230/2260 for Wi-Fi/BT modules.
• Nano SIM Card Slot: For seamless integration with cellular networks.
• M.2 2280 Key M Slot: For additional storage solutions.
• Micro SD Card Slot: For expandable storage options.

Remote Management

Equipped with Intel® In-Band Manageability, the iEP-7030E Series supports reliable remote management and over-the-air (OTA) updates for firmware, software, and applications. This facilitates seamless integration between IT and OT systems, ensuring operational efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

Wide Operating Temperature Range

• Temperature Tolerance: Operates effectively in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 70°C for Basic/5LAN-WIFI SKUs with 15W CPU, and -25°C to 50°C for PoE SKU with 15W CPU or all SKUs with 28W CPU.
• Shock and Vibration Resistance: Built to resist shocks and vibrations, ensuring reliable performance in harsh industrial environments.

 Power Protection Mechanisms

• OVP, UVP, OCP, and Surge Protection: Comprehensive power protection mechanisms ensure system stability and prevent damage from electrical anomalies.
• Power Supply: Supports a wide range of power inputs, 9-36V DC for Basic/5LAN/5G/8DIO SKUs, and 19-36V DC for PoE SKU, making it suitable for various industrial applications.
• Connectors: Features 2 x 3-pin phoenix type connectors for secure power connections.

 Security and Debugging Features

• TPM 2.0: Integrated for enhanced security, establishing a trusted computing platform and ensuring data integrity.
• LED Indicators: Unique features such as one storage, one user-defined, two debug, and two DC-IN LEDs facilitate easy debugging and reduce machine downtime.

 Mounting Options

The iEP-7030E Series offers multiple mounting options including wall mount, VESA mount, and DIN rail, providing flexibility for diverse application requirements.

The iEP-7030E Series is available in several configurations, each tailored to specific industrial needs:

• Basic: Standard configuration for general industrial applications.
• PoE: Power over Ethernet for simplified cabling and enhanced network reliability.
• 5LAN-WIFI: Five LAN ports with Wi-Fi capability for robust network connectivity.
• 5LAN-5G: Five LAN ports with 5G capability for high-speed wireless communication.
• 5G-WIFI: Combines 5G and Wi-Fi capabilities for ultimate wireless flexibility.
• 8DIO: Enhanced digital I/O for applications requiring extensive input/output operations.

Ideal Applications for iEP-7030E Series

The iEP-7030E Series is designed to cater to a wide range of industrial applications, making it a versatile choice for businesses looking to optimise their operations with advanced AIoT solutions.

 Smart Manufacturing

In smart manufacturing, the iEP-7030E Series can monitor production lines in real time. Its AI capabilities allow for predictive maintenance, identifying potential failures before they occur, thus reducing downtime. The integrated Intel® ARC graphics provide detailed visual inspections, enhancing quality control processes. For instance, the series can be used to control robotic arms, ensuring precise movements and optimal performance.

 Process Automation

Process automation benefits greatly from the iEP-7030E Series’ robust I/O support and real-time data processing capabilities. By integrating with existing machinery via its serial and USB ports, the controller can automate and optimise production workflows. For example, in a bottling plant, the iEP-7030E can control the speed and coordination of conveyors, fillers, and cappers, ensuring seamless operation and efficiency.

 Robotics

For robotics, the iEP-7030E Series provides the necessary processing power for real-time navigation and task execution. Its AI-enhanced CPU and GPU ensure robots can perform complex computations on the fly. In autonomous delivery robots, the series enables precise obstacle detection and route optimisation, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries.

 Smart City Infrastructure

The iEP-7030E Series can be integrated into smart city infrastructure to manage and analyse vast amounts of data from various sensors and devices. For example, in traffic management, the controller can process video feeds from multiple cameras to monitor traffic flow, detect violations, and optimise signal timings to reduce congestion. Its high-speed RF capabilities ensure seamless communication across the city’s network.

 AI-driven Surveillance

In AI-driven surveillance, the iEP-7030E Series supports high-resolution video analytics, enabling real-time threat detection and response. For instance, in a shopping mall, the controller can analyse video feeds to identify suspicious behaviour, track individuals of interest, and alert security personnel, enhancing overall safety and security.

 Energy Management

The iEP-7030E Series can optimise energy management systems by integrating with various sensors and devices to monitor and control energy usage. In a smart grid, the controller can manage load distribution, monitor energy consumption patterns, and predict demand surges, ensuring efficient energy use and reducing costs.

 Healthcare

In healthcare, the iEP-7030E Series can support medical imaging and diagnostic systems, providing real-time analysis and enhancing patient care. For example, in a radiology department, the controller can process high-resolution medical images, aiding in the early detection of diseases and improving diagnostic accuracy.

 Agriculture

The iEP-7030E Series can revolutionise agriculture by enabling precision farming. By connecting to various sensors and machinery, the controller can monitor soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns. For instance, it can automate irrigation systems based on real-time soil moisture data, optimising water use and improving crop yield.

The ASRock Industrial iEP-7030E Series is a powerful, versatile, and durable Industrial IoT controller designed to meet the needs of a wide array of industrial and technological applications. Its combination of robust processing power, extensive connectivity options, and rugged design makes it an invaluable tool for advancing the capabilities and efficiency of modern industries. Whether in smart manufacturing, process automation, robotics, smart city infrastructure, AI-driven surveillance, or beyond, the iEP-7030E Series is poised to support next-level deployment of edge solutions, driving innovation and efficiency across sectors.

ASRock Industrial’s iEP-7030E Series Industrial IoT Controller, powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors, sets a new standard for intelligent edge computing. With its robust AI and graphics capabilities, flexible I/O and expansion options, advanced connectivity, and rugged design, the iEP-7030E Series is poised to drive efficient, productive, and secure industrial applications.

Whether you are looking to enhance smart manufacturing, streamline process automation, deploy AI-driven robotics, or manage smart city infrastructure, the iEP-7030E Series offers the versatility and performance needed for next-level edge solutions. Embrace the future of industrial IoT with ASRock Industrial’s latest innovation.