Opto 22 Introduces SNAP OEM I/O(TM) Family

Market Wire, 20050229

Opto 22, a manufacturer and developer of hardware and software for industrial automation, remote monitoring, enterprise data acquisition, and machine-to-machine applications, has introduced the SNAP OEM I/O family of I/O processors. The SNAP-ARL-ASDS brain, the first product available in this new family, is a highly programmable, Linux-based I/O processor for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), information technology (IT) professionals, and others seeking to develop and use custom software applications to interface with the full line of lifetime-guaranteed Opto 22 SNAP I/O™ modules.

Opto 22's SNAP-ARL-ASDS processor (or brain) is an ARM-based, compact processor that mounts on standard Opto 22 SNAP B-series mounting racks and interfaces with a mix of analog, digital, and serial SNAP I/O modules. Unlike other Opto 22 SNAP Ethernet-based brains, SNAP OEM I/O is not programmed with Opto 22's ioControl™ control software. Instead, advanced programmers can use Linux-based tools to develop custom applications for the brain to execute and communicate with Opto 22 I/O modules. As a result, SNAP OEM I/O greatly aids machine builders and OEMs by providing an alternative to the PCs and PLCs often used for I/O control in machines and equipment for the semiconductor and other industries.

The SNAP-ARL-ASDS, which includes an RS-232 serial port and 10 Mbps Ethernet connection, supports multiple file transfer protocols, including FTP and Samba, and comes with an installed Linux kernel and all necessary drivers. Source code and Linux development utilities are available from http://www.linuxio.org, an Opto 22 Web site dedicated to the SNAP OEM I/O development community. Using these tools, advanced control programmers can build applications with popular programming languages such as C and Java, or with Bash script. These applications, when running on the SNAP-ARL-ASDS brain, then read and write to Opto 22 SNAP I/O modules using easily implemented file-based operations.

The SNAP-ARL-ASDS brain, with its lower power consumption, smaller size, and lower cost, is ideal for advanced programmers and machine builders who require embedded intelligence running on a Linux operating system. Programmers are free to create customized applications that precisely execute any control function they desire. Additionally, programmers can choose to download only their compiled executable files to the SNAP OEM I/O brain, thereby protecting their source code and intellectual property and reducing the chance that their control program will be reverse-engineered. This important feature helps them maintain their competitive advantage in the marketplace.

"The SNAP OEM I/O hardware clearly reflects Opto 22's commitment to using standard, open technologies in developing its products," says Mark Engman, Opto 22 Vice President of Engineering. "By providing complete user programmability for the I/O interface, along with multiple process support and diverse communications capabilities, SNAP OEM I/O can effectively augment, or in some cases even replace, the functionality of a PC or PLC in many environments."

About Opto 22

Opto 22 manufactures and develops hardware and software products for applications in industrial automation, remote monitoring, and enterprise data acquisition. Using standard, commercially available Internet, networking, and computer technologies, Opto 22's input/output and control systems allow customers to monitor, control, and acquire data from all of the mechanical, electrical, and electronic assets that are key to their business operations. Opto 22's products and services support automation end users, OEMs, and information technology and operations personnel. Founded in 1974 and with over 80 million Opto 22-connected devices deployed worldwide, the company has an established reputation for quality and reliability.

Opto 22 products are sold through a worldwide network of distributors, partners, and system integrators. For more information, contact Opto 22 headquarters at 800-321-OPTO or visit our Web site at www.opto22.com.

Electronic copies of this release and related photos are available at www.opto22.com/company/pressroom/index.aspx

Contact: David Crump Marketing Communications 800.321.6786 909.695.3010 dcrump@opto22.com