New control panel runs on 32bit MCU

The 32bit MCUs from STMicroelectronics have been selected for the new generation of operator-friendly, touchscreen production-line control panels from Erhardt+Leimer GmbH, a producer of industrial automation equipment.

As the interface from the operator to the manufacturing equipment, production-line control panels play a critical role in maintaining productivity across industries. Powered by ST's high-performance STM32 MCUs, Erhardt+Leimer's control panels promise ease of use, increasing the speed and efficiency of the manufacturing process, minimizing material waste and maximizing output quality.

The RT4008 control panel with a 320 x 240mm LCD color touchscreen, soft and hard keys, and self-explanatory graphics runs on ST's STM32 F-2 MCU. This microcontroller device combines superior processing power, high efficiency, and convenience of the industry-standard ARM Cortex -M3 processor with abundant peripheral sets and large program (Flash) and data (SRAM) memory.

Erhardt+Leimer's control panel primarily targets web-guiding systems—essential components of factory automation in paper, textile, and rubber manufacturing, as well as in conveyor and transporting systems. Web guiding systems keep the processed material in a defined position and guarantee an exact input feed into the production process even at the highest processing speeds.

Extensive field tests of the ST-powered manufacturing control panels started at selected Erhardt+Leimer customers in China, Europe and the US in May 2011.