Unveiling Arbor Technology’s SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, industries require more than just standard computing solutions. They need systems that can withstand harsh environments, deliver robust performance, and offer flexibility to meet various application demands. The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) of rugged computers is designed to meet these challenges, combining slim, high-performance computing with low power consumption, all housed in a rugged and compact form factor.

A Versatile Solution for Diverse Industrial Needs

The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series represents the pinnacle of rugged computing, offering a perfect balance of power, durability, and energy efficiency. This series is specifically designed to cater to the needs of intelligent logistics, industrial automation, and remote monitoring, among other demanding applications. Featuring the latest Intel processors, including the N97 and Core™ i3-N305, these computers offer exceptional performance in a range of industrial settings.

Let’s dive into the features and benefits of this advanced series and explore how it can transform operations across multiple industries.

1. Intelligent Logistics

As the world embraces Industry 4.0, logistics operations have become increasingly automated and data-driven. Warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing plants are rapidly deploying Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to streamline their operations and enhance productivity. These systems rely on embedded computers to process real-time data, navigate complex environments, and communicate with other systems.

The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) is perfectly suited for these applications due to its slim design, low power consumption, and advanced connectivity options. By embedding these computers into AGVs and AMRs, businesses can achieve higher levels of automation and efficiency.

How the Features Help:

• Slim Design & Compact Form Factor: The compact design of the SB-244 series allows for easy integration into tight spaces within AGVs and AMRs. This is critical in logistics environments where space optimisation is essential.
• Low Power Consumption: The power-efficient design of the SB-244 series ensures longer battery life for mobile robots, reducing downtime and enhancing overall productivity. This makes it ideal for logistics operations where minimising energy consumption is a priority.
• Advanced Connectivity: The SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) comes with multiple LAN ports, USB ports, and expansion slots, allowing seamless integration with sensors, cameras, and communication systems. This enables real-time data processing and communication with central management systems, ensuring smooth coordination of logistics activities.

Suitable Use Cases in Logistics:

• Warehouse Automation: The SB-244 series can be embedded into AGVs and AMRs used for transporting goods within warehouses. These vehicles can autonomously navigate through the warehouse, picking up and delivering goods to designated locations with precision and speed.
• Supply Chain Optimisation: The real-time data processing capabilities of the SB-244 series enable logistics systems to optimise supply chain operations. By monitoring and analysing data from various points in the supply chain, businesses can identify bottlenecks, predict demand, and make informed decisions that enhance efficiency.

Fleet Management: The SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) can be used to manage fleets of AGVs and AMRs, ensuring that they operate efficiently and coordinate effectively with each other. This can significantly reduce labor costs and increase throughput in large logistics operations.

2. Industrial Automation

Industrial automation is at the heart of modern manufacturing, where precision, reliability, and speed are critical. From robotic arms to conveyor systems, industrial processes rely on robust computing solutions to handle real-time control, data processing, and communication. The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) is designed to excel in these demanding environments, offering a rugged solution that can withstand the rigors of industrial settings.

How the Features Help:

• Powerful Processors: The SB-244 series is powered by Intel processors, including the N97 and the Core™ i3-N305. These processors deliver the performance needed to handle complex automation tasks, such as controlling robotic arms, managing conveyor systems, and monitoring production lines.
• Abundant I/O Ports: Industrial automation systems often require numerous connections to sensors, actuators, and controllers. The SB-244 series provides an extensive range of I/O ports, including RS232/422/485 serial ports, USB 3.2, and multiple LAN ports, ensuring seamless integration with industrial devices.
• Industrial-Grade Protection: The rugged design of the SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) ensures that it can operate reliably in harsh industrial environments, including those with extreme temperatures, dust, and vibration. This makes it an ideal solution for factory floors and other challenging settings.

Suitable Use Cases in Industrial Automation:

• Manufacturing Process Control: In manufacturing environments, the SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) can be used to control and monitor robotic arms, conveyor systems, and other automated machinery. The powerful processors ensure that the system can handle real-time data processing and control tasks with precision and speed.
• Quality Control Systems: The SB-244 series can be integrated into quality control systems, where it collects and processes data from sensors and cameras to ensure product quality. By analysing data in real-time, the system can automatically detect defects and alert operators, reducing the risk of faulty products reaching the market.

Predictive Maintenance: Industrial machines require regular maintenance to operate at peak performance. The SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) can monitor the condition of machines and use predictive analytics to determine when maintenance is needed, preventing costly downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment.

3. Remote Monitoring

In industries like energy management, environmental monitoring, and smart city infrastructure, remote monitoring is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations. The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series is built to handle these remote monitoring tasks, offering reliable computing power in isolated and harsh environments.

How the Features Help:

• Wireless Connectivity: With support for Wi-Fi, 4G, and 5G networks, the SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) ensures that remote monitoring systems can transmit real-time data to central control centers, even in areas with limited infrastructure. This is essential for applications like energy management, where timely data is critical for optimising operations.
• Rugged Build: The SB-244 series is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environmental conditions. This makes it ideal for remote monitoring applications in challenging environments, such as offshore oil rigs, wind farms, and remote environmental stations.
• Expandability: The SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) includes mPCIe and M.2 slots for expansion modules, allowing for easy integration of additional features like GPS tracking, specialised sensors, or 5G connectivity. This makes it a versatile solution for various remote monitoring needs.

• Manufacturing Process Control: In manufacturing environments, the SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) can be used to control and monitor robotic arms, conveyor systems, and other automated machinery. The powerful processors ensure that the system can handle real-time data processing and control tasks with precision and speed.
• Quality Control Systems: The SB-244 series can be integrated into quality control systems, where it collects and processes data from sensors and cameras to ensure product quality. By analysing data in real-time, the system can automatically detect defects and alert operators, reducing the risk of faulty products reaching the market.
• Predictive Maintenance: Industrial machines require regular maintenance to operate at peak performance. The SB-244 series (SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97) can monitor the condition of machines and use predictive analytics to determine when maintenance is needed, preventing costly downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment.

The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series is available in two key models: the SB-244-1N97 and SB-244-1N97.  Both models offer unique features and benefits tailored to different application needs. Below, we take a closer look at each model’s features and how they can enhance specific industrial applications.

SB-244-1N97: The Perfect Balance of Power and Efficiency

The SB-244-1N97  is designed for applications where efficiency, compact size, and reliable performance are essential. This model features the Intel® Processor N97, offering a powerful yet energy-efficient solution for various industrial tasks.

Key Features:

• CPU: Intel® Processor N97 (6M Cache, Up to 3.6GHz)
• Memory: 1 x SDRAM DDR4 3200 MHz SO-SIMM slot (Max. 16G)
• Graphics: Intel® UHD Graphics
• LAN: 1 x Intel I210AT GbE controller, 3 x Intel I226-V 2.5GbE controllers
• Watchdog Timer: Programmable 255 levels timer interval, from 1~255 sec/min
• Storage: 1 x M.2 2242 (SATA 3.0), 1 x SATA 3.1 (2.5” drive bay)
• Power Input: 12-36V DC, 2-pin phoenix connector
• OS Compatibility: Windows 10/11, Ubuntu 22.04
• Connectivity: 4 x RS232/422/485 (default RS-232) with auto flow control, 2 x USB3.2 Gen. 2, 4 x USB2.0
• Display Outputs: 1 x HDMI (up to 4Kx2K@24Hz), 1 x DP1.2 (up to 4096×2160@60Hz)
• Expandability: mPCIe and M.2 3052 socket for 5G module, SIM card sockets
• Operating Temp.: -20 ~ 60°C

How It Benefits Applications:

• Efficient Processing: The Intel® Processor N97 provides enough processing power for most industrial tasks while maintaining low energy consumption. This makes it ideal for applications where energy efficiency is a priority, such as logistics and automation gateways.
• Advanced Networking: With multiple LAN ports, the SB-244-1N97 offers robust networking capabilities, allowing it to handle data-intensive applications, such as real-time communication between AGVs and AMRs in a warehouse setting.
• Versatile Connectivity: The extensive I/O options, including USB 3.2 and RS232/422/485 serial ports, ensure seamless integration with various industrial devices, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial automation applications.

Suitable Use Cases:

• Logistics Automation: Ideal for use in AGVs and AMRs due to its low power consumption and compact design. The SB-244-1N97 can be embedded into logistics robots to facilitate the efficient movement of goods in warehouses and distribution centers.
• Factory Automation: The SB-244-1N97 can be used as a gateway in factory automation systems, connecting various sensors and controllers to the central management system. Its powerful processing and robust connectivity make it a reliable solution for controlling automated machinery.

SB-244-1N305: High-Performance Computing for Demanding Applications

The SB-244-1N305 model is designed for more demanding industrial applications, offering higher performance with the Intel Core™ i3-N305 processor. This model is ideal for industries that require more computational power and advanced connectivity options.

Key Features:

• CPU: Intel® Alder Lake-N Core™ i3-N305 Processor (8 Cores, Up to 3.8GHz)
• Memory: 1 x SDRAM DDR4 3200 MHz SO-SIMM slot (Max. 16G)
• Graphics: Intel® UHD Graphics
• LAN: 1 x Intel I210AT GbE controller, 3 x Intel I226-V 2.5GbE controllers
• Watchdog Timer: Programmable 255 levels timer interval, from 1~255 sec/min
• Storage: 1 x M.2 2242 (SATA 3.0), 1 x SATA 3.1 (2.5” drive bay)
• Power Input: 12-36V DC, 2-pin phoenix connector
• OS Compatibility: Windows 10/11, Ubuntu 22.04
• Connectivity: 4 x RS232/422/485 (default RS-232) with auto flow control, 2 x USB3.2 Gen. 2, 4 x USB2.0
• Display Outputs: 1 x HDMI (up to 4Kx2K@24Hz), 1 x DP1.2 (up to 4096×2160@60Hz)
• Expandability: mPCIe and M.2 3052 socket for 5G module, SIM card sockets
• Operating Temp.: -20 ~ 60°C

How It Benefits Applications:

• Enhanced Processing Power: The Intel® Core™ i3-N305 processor offers superior performance for demanding industrial tasks. This makes the SB-244-1N305 ideal for applications that require more computational power, such as advanced automation systems and high-performance remote monitoring.
• Advanced Graphics Capabilities: The Intel® UHD Graphics integrated with the i3-N305 processor ensures that the system can handle high-resolution displays and complex graphical tasks, making it suitable for applications like industrial HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems.
• High-Speed Networking: With 2.5GbE LAN ports, the SB-244-1N305 offers fast data transmission and networking capabilities, essential for data-intensive applications in industrial automation and remote monitoring.

Suitable Use Cases:

• Advanced Industrial Automation: The SB-244-1N305 is ideal for controlling complex automation systems in manufacturing environments. Its powerful processor can handle tasks like real-time process control, data analytics, and predictive maintenance, ensuring that manufacturing systems operate efficiently and with minimal downtime.
• Remote Monitoring and Control: The SB-244-1N305 can be deployed in remote monitoring stations to collect and analyse data from sensors in real-time. With its high processing power and robust connectivity, it is suitable for critical monitoring tasks in energy management, environmental control, and smart city infrastructure.

The SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series represents a new era in rugged computing, offering the perfect combination of performance, durability, and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to optimize logistics operations with AGVs and AMRs, enhance industrial automation systems, or deploy reliable remote monitoring solutions, the SB-244 series has the power, connectivity, and ruggedness to meet your needs.

From the compact and energy-efficient SB-244-1N97 to the high-performance SB-244-1N305, these rugged computers are designed to handle the most demanding industrial applications. Explore the future of industrial computing with the SB-244 Alder Lake-N Series and transform your operations today.