Powering Industry: The Role of Servers in Modern Manufacturing

Introduction In today's industrial landscape, servers play a pivotal role in driving efficiency, productivity, and innovation. Serving as the backbone of digital infrastructure, industrial servers facilitate seamless data management, real-time monitoring, and control across various operations. From manufacturing plants to logistics hubs, these robust computing systems empower industries to optimize processes, enhance decision-making, and adapt to evolving market demands. As technology continues to revolutionize the industrial sector, the significance of servers in ensuring reliability, security, and scalability remains paramount. Let's delve deeper into the transformative impact of servers in industrial settings.

CONGATEC EXPANDS ITS MODULAR EDGE SERVER ECOSYSTEM WITH A ΜATX SERVER CARRIER BOARD

The new μATX server carrier board offers scalability across the entire Intel Ice Lake D processor range and beyond.

congatec a leading provider of embedded and edge computing technologies – has expanded its ecosystem for modular edge servers. New products include a server carrier board in μATX form factor and COM-HPC Server-on-Modules based on the latest Intel Xeon D processors (Ice Lake). The new μATX server board for COM-HPC modules was developed for compact real-time servers that are used in edge applications and critical infrastructures. The board can be flexibly scaled with the latest high-end COM-HPC Server modules from Congatec. Together with the updated modules, which are equipped with the latest Intel Xeon D-1800?and D-2800?processors, customers receive a ready-to-use μATX platform for applications with high-performance requirements in a space-saving, robust design.

With the new μATX carrier board for COM-HPC Server-on-Modules, congatec underlines its commitment as a supplier of advanced computing solutions for immediate use in demanding industrial applications. The ecosystem of COM-HPC modules and μATX carrier board offers OEMs a wide range of customization options at module, board and system level from which developers can freely choose according to their needs. The ecosystem package is tailored to the stringent requirements of edge computing and offers powerful, reliable and ready-to-use building blocks for industrial environments. The modular approach shortens the time to market for new designs and also makes them future-proof.

The new μATX carrier board conga-HPC/uATX server offers maximum I/O and expansion options in a compact standard form factor. This makes the board an ideal solution for numerous applications, such as consolidating servers for virtual machines (VM) or edge servers for energy microgrids, video processing, facial recognition, security applications, smart city infrastructures and many other applications. The conga-HPC/uATX server offers multiple features to drive such applications, including robust communication options with up to 100?GbE and bandwidth, x8?and x16?PCIe expansion for processing AI-intensive workloads via GPGPUs or other compute accelerators, 2x M.2?Key M slots for NVMe SSDs and a M.2?Key B slot for compact AI accelerators or communication modules for WiFi or LTE/5G.

The new conga-HPC/sILL and conga-HPC/sILH Server-on-Modules take advantage of the latest Intel Ice Lake D-1800?LCC and D-2800?HCC processor series, which offers up to 15% more performance at the same TDP compared to the previous D-1700/D-2700?series 8. The improved performance per watt of the COM-HPC modules is ideal for high-performance applications that were previously limited by their thermal budget. They also benefit from Intel Speed Select technology, which makes it easier to balance the computing performance and maximum TDP of the system design. The latest processors have up to 22?cores with higher clock speeds to support next-generation edge applications with more performance per watt for more energy-efficient and therefore more reliable designs. Scalable edge performance and the modular approach increase the flexibility and future-proofing of designs, reduce total cost of ownership and shorten time to market.

The new COM-HPC server modules impress with their firmware-integrated hypervisor, which makes the evaluation of consolidating servers with virtual machines particularly easy. Also with full real-time capability, which is provided by TCC, TCN and optional SyncE support. This is particularly ideal for all networked 5G solutions that require very low latencies and strict frequency/clock synchronization.

For the new COM-HPC Server-on-Modules based μATX solution platform, congatec also offers various comprehensive cooling solutions, including passive cooling for small chassis. In addition to customizing the conga-HPC/uATX server carrier board, the service package also includes customer-specific BIOS/UEFI and real-time hypervisor implementations as well as expansion with additional IIoT functionalities for digitization purposes.

Further information on the new conga-HPC/uATX server carrier board can be found here and latest Server-on-Modules from congatec can be found here .

DELTA INTRODUCES DX-2400L9?SERIES INDUSTRIAL 4G/WAN ROUTERS

A New Approach in Industrial Connectivity.

台达电子 has announced the launch of its DX-2400L9?Series Industrial 4G/WAN DIACloud Routers, poised to significantly impact industrial automation with unparalleled features designed to redefine remote control and monitoring. The new DX-2400L9?promises to emerge as a beacon of connectivity in the industrial automation sector.

Innovative Design and Security

The DX-2400L9?is designed to resonate with a diverse array of businesses involved in industrial automation seeking reliable solutions for remote control and monitoring of automation systems. From manufacturing facilities to energy plants, logistics hubs, and agricultural operations, the DX-2400L9?is tailored to meet the connectivity needs. Designed to fit any cabinet, the DX-2400L9?offers flexible connection options, including 4G cellular network or WAN broadband interfaces, with configurable WAN/LAN ports. It establishes a secure tunnel between the user and the remote site through Delta DIACloud servers, eliminating the need for an additional VPN server. Its built-in firewall, stateful packet inspection, and advanced security protocols provide robust protection against cyber threats, ensuring safe data transmission. Additionally, the DX-2400L9?is compatible with leading PLC brands and offers DIACloud integration, enhancing operational efficiency and the cloud experience.

Redefining Connectivity

In a world where accessibility is paramount, the DX-2400L9?offers unprecedented benefits to its users. It enables users to monitor and control equipment from anywhere in the world, while robust cybersecurity measures ensure data integrity and confidentiality. Despite its advanced features, the DX-2400L9?remains cost-effective, presenting an optimal balance between affordability and functionality. It boosts operational efficiency by enabling secure remote connections, ensuring real-time data visibility and control, all without requiring an IT background. Robust cybersecurity measures fortify this system, minimizing downtime through efficient monitoring and control capabilities.

Ufuk Ozer, Cloud and Connectivity Specialist, Industrial Automation Business Group at Delta EMEA, shares his insights on the introduction of the DX-2400L9?Series, “We keep working hard to continuously improve remote access and IIoT solutions to enhance productivity. With Delta DX-2400L9?Series, we offer a robust IIoT platform for businesses to enhance their productivity and minimize downtime, all while ensuring the highest standards of data security.”Delta's DX-2400L9?Series heralds a new era in industrial connectivity, offering unparalleled features that meet the evolving needs of the industrial sector. For businesses seeking to leverage the latest in IIoT technology to secure remote connection, reduce downtime, and streamline operations, the DX-2400L9?Series presents a comprehensive solution. For more information about the DX-2400L9?Series, please visit:https://www.delta-emea.com/en-GB/products/IIoT-Routers/DX-2400L9

MOXA NPORT DEVICE SERVERS FOR RELIABLE SMART TRANSPORTATION

Moxa's NPort device servers revolutionize smart transportation by facilitating seamless serial-to-Ethernet communication, supporting various operation modes like TCP Server, TCP Client, UDP Server/Client, Pair Connection, or Ethernet Modem mode.

One proven solution is the Moxa NPort serial device server. Sending and receiving serial data over TCP/IP networks is made simple by its support for multiple operation modes. Below are three communication challenges showing how technicians can use the TCP/UDP operation mode in NPort serial device servers to optimize serial-to-Ethernet communication for transportation applications.

Scenario 1: Road Traffic Monitoring

Controllers and sensors at roadsides collect data on both traffic and environmental conditions. Deployed miles away from each other, these field devices must communicate with traffic control centers to provide operators with real-time road conditions. Correspondingly, operators must provide instant information to drivers regarding traffic jams and severe weather. When collecting field data in large-scale applications and transforming it into actionable information, operators can encounter difficulties dealing with multiple serial data requests from divergent programs and experience longer response times when incidents occur.

SOLUTION: Moxa NPort serial device servers support the TCP server mode often used in remote monitoring applications connecting field sensors such as traffic controllers, road sensors, and other devices. Central systems in the control center running TCP-client programs initiate contact with the NPort, establish a connection, and receive serial data from field devices. When multiple hosts contact the NPort simultaneously, the TCP server mode supports the Max Connection function that permits hosts to collect serial data from the same field device simultaneously.

Although Max Connection makes multiple command requests possible, it could lead to data collisions. Thus, Moxa also has a command-by-command function to prevent serial data collisions when you enable the Max Connection function. Command-by-command lets the NPort store the commands in its buffer when they are received from hosts on the Ethernet. These commands will be sent to the serial ports on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Once the field device responds, the NPort saves that response to its buffer and then sends the response to where the command originated, as illustrated below.

In addition, the TCP server mode includes TCP Alive Check Timeout that provides the NPort with a fail-safe mechanism if the network gets disconnected. It provides the Ethernet connection status by checking periodically.

Scenario 2: Access Control Systems

Some intelligent transportation systems incorporate access control, for instance, parking lots and entry gates. These typically require the active collection of serial data through card readers that must be subsequently transmitted over TCP/IP to multiple systems for authentications and payment calculations. When a connection fails, productive time is wasted and potential revenue is lost. Connection reliability requires a serial-to-Ethernet solution that can send data over TCP/IP networks while providing sufficient bandwidth for backup systems.

SOLUTION: Moxa NPort's TCP client mode is frequently used in access control systems to connect serial card readers and other devices. In this case, the host program receives the data back for additional processing. One problem regarding transporting serial data over TCP/IP networks is that data could be divided into separate Ethernet packets, causing the application program to fail. Moxa NPort serial device servers provide Data Packing functions to ensure that serial data arrives in a complete and recognized packet so the application receives and processes requests correctly.

Since the application program recognizes a specific character as the end of a data stream, the NPort's Delimiter function enables it to immediately pack and send all data in the buffer to the Ethernet when a specific character is received through its serial port. This way, the payment system can receive serial data as requested.

When the NPort is configured to TCP client mode, it can decide when to establish or disconnect a TCP connection with the host by enabling its Connection Control function. This function allows the operator to limit the number of TCP connections only to those required and increase the efficiency of the host server by disconnecting unused connections automatically. Many different events can be defined to establish or disconnect a TCP connection. A very common one is "Any Character/Inactivity Timeout". Whenever there is serial data activity, the NPort is triggered to establish a TCP connection with the host. On the flip side, if the serial end is idle for a specified time, the NPort will disconnect the TCP connection until serial data activity resumes. In this situation, the Max Connection function can be used to connect a backup host for serial data collection without worrying that it would occupy transmission bandwidth.

Scenario 3: Passenger Information Systems

Smart transportation uses passenger information systems to share real-time transport information with commuters. Operators need to broadcast (or multicast) identical messages to LED displays to show information, such as train schedules at stations or road conditions on highways. In order for commuters to obtain real-time information and modify their commute path, this application needs to transmit data more quickly.

SOLUTION: If the application requires real-time data transmission and the socket program uses the UDP protocol, the NPort can be set to UDP mode. The major difference between UDP and TCP server/client modes is the connection does not need to be established before transmitting data. UDP sends data faster than TCP server/client mode because the time required for TCP’s three-way handshakes is eliminated. UDP mode is suitable for applications that require real-time transmission and can still tolerate possible data losses.

In UDP mode, a multicast IP address can be set for every serial port, and all devices that subscribe to the same multicast IP address will receive the message assigned to that IP address. Multicast not only efficiently sends the message to multiple destinations but also saves valuable bandwidth by not transmitting identical data to different destinations multiple times.

To satisfy the needs of various operation modes, Moxa NPort serial device servers offer a wide range of functions for industrial applications. In addition, NPort serial device servers feature security functions and OS driver support to ensure serial devices connect easily and securely to modern systems.

For more information .

SAMSUNG DEMONSTRATES NEW CXL CAPABILITIES, INTRODUCES NEW MEMORY MODULE

Samsung unveiled the expansion of its CXL memory module portfolio and showcased its latest HBM3E technology, reinforcing leadership in high-performance and high-capacity solutions for AI applications.

Highlighting growing momentum in the CXL ecosystem, 三星电子 introduced its CXL Memory Module – Box (CMM-B), a cutting-edge CXL DRAM memory pooling product. Samsung CMM-B can accommodate eight CMM-D devices of E3.S form factor and provide up to two terabytes (TB) of capacity. The huge memory capacity backed by high performance of up to 60?gigabytes-per-second (GB/s) bandwidth and latency of 596?nanoseconds (ns) can serve various applications that need high-capacity memory such as AI, in-memory database (IMDB), data analytics and others.

Samsung also partnered with Supermicro, a global leader in Plug and Play Rack-Scale IT solutions, to demonstrate the industry’s first Rack-Level memory solution for highly scalable and composable disaggregated infrastructure. This advanced solution leverages Samsung’s CMM-B to increase memory capacity and bandwidth, enabling data centers to handle demanding workloads, unlike standard architectures that lack the necessary flexibility and efficiency for modern applications. The increased memory capacity and high performance of up to 60GB/s bandwidth per server can enhance various applications that require high-capacity memory, such as AI, IMDB, data analytics and more.

On stage, Samsung and VMware by Broadcom also introduced project Peaberry, the world’s first FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays)-based tiered memory solution for hypervisors called CXL Memory Module Hybrid for Tiered Memory (CMM-H TM) . This hybrid solution combines DRAM and NAND media in an Add-in Card (AIC) form factor to tackle memory management challenges, reduce downtime, optimize scheduling for tiered memory, and maximize performance, all while significantly reducing total cost of ownership (TCO).

In addition, Samsung showcased its CXL Memory Module – DRAM (CMM-D) technology, which uses Samsung's DRAM technology integrated with the CXL open standard interface, facilitating efficient, low-latency connectivity between the CPU and memory expansion devices. Red Hat, a global leader in open source software solutions, successfully validated Samsung’s CMM-D devices with its enterprise software for the first time in the industry last year. The two companies will continue their collaboration through the Samsung Memory Research (SMRC) in developing CXL open-source and reference models, as well as partnering on a range of other storage and memory products.

Samsung also gave 2024?Memcon attendees an opportunity to demo its latest HBM3E 12H chip – the world’s first 12-stack HBM3E DRAM, marking a breakthrough with the highest capacity ever achieved in HBM technology. The HBM3E 12H utilizes the company’s advanced thermal compression non-conductive film (TC NCF) technology, enhancing vertical density of the chip by over 20% compared to its predecessor, while also improving product yield. Samsung is currently sampling its HBM3E 12H to customers and plans to start mass production within the first half of this year.

In conclusion, servers stand as indispensable assets in the modern industrial sector, enabling businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. From streamlining operations and optimizing efficiency to ensuring data security and facilitating innovation, the role of servers cannot be overstated. As industries continue to embrace technological advancements and automation, the importance of robust server infrastructure will only grow. By harnessing the power of servers effectively, industrial enterprises can unlock new opportunities, drive sustainable growth, and stay ahead in today's competitive market environment.