Continuous Data Collection Infrastructure on the Production Floor
Continuous Data Collection Infrastructure on the Production Floor
An Edge PC is an edge computing device positioned on the production floor to collect data from machines and workstations and securely transmit it to the ProManage server or cloud infrastructure. Configured for 24/7 continuous operation, it plays a critical role in maintaining seamless data continuity.
Edge PCs establish a reliable connection layer between the production floor and the ProManage infrastructure. They enable machine data to be collected at a single point and transmitted reliably, ensuring full traceability across the data pipeline. While structurally similar to standard PCs, they are deployed with dedicated configurations specifically designed to guarantee uninterrupted data flow.
What Does an Edge PC Provide?
As a core component of the data collection architecture, an Edge PC performs the following functions:
- Centralizing machine data collection and transmission
- Establishing a stable and traceable structure within the data pipeline
- Providing a resilient connection layer between the production floor and ProManage
Through this architecture, data generated on the shop floor is transferred to central systems in a controlled and uninterrupted manner. This continuous data flow forms the foundation of overall system performance and reporting accuracy.
Installation and Network Requirements
Edge PC installation should be planned to support data collection continuity. During installation, the following principles are recommended:
- At least 1 Edge PC should be prepared per facility.
- An existing computer with suitable specifications may be evaluated for this purpose.
- It is recommended that the Edge PC is not used as a user computer; shared or personal use should be avoided.
- It should be configured to operate 24 hours a day.
- It is recommended to include it in an isolated network dedicated to the machine data collection line.
- A static IP should be assigned, and internet access should be provided when necessary.
Physical or Virtual Deployment
An Edge PC can be deployed either physically or virtually, depending on the need. Based on the project scope and facility infrastructure, selecting one of the options is sufficient.
Physical deployment refers to configuration on separate hardware on the shop floor. Virtual deployment involves running the Edge PC function within a dedicated environment on the existing server infrastructure.
The correct choice is determined by considering the structure of the production line, data collection intensity, and IT infrastructure.
Recommended Technical Specifications
The recommended technical configuration for Edge PCs may vary depending on the scope of data collection and the modules to be used. The basic recommendations are as follows:
- Operating System
Supported operating systems:
• Windows 10 / Windows 11 (x86/x64)
• Windows Server 2012 / 2016 / 2019 / 2022
• Windows 10 IoT
• Windows 11 IoT Recommended operating system:
• Windows 10 Pro x64
- Hardware Requirements
• RAM: Minimum 8 GB (recommended to increase depending on installation scope and modules)
• Disk: 256 GB
• CPU: 4 cores
• Processor speed: 2.5 GHz or higher
Critical Role in Data Collection Continuity
It is recommended that Edge PCs are not used as user computers. Shared or personal use may lead to interruptions and performance issues in the data collection line. Therefore, the Edge PC should be configured solely for data collection and data transmission purposes.
To ensure the continuity of the machine data collection line, it is recommended that the Edge PC be included in an isolated network structure. Using a separate network segment is critical in terms of data security and system stability. Assigning a static IP and providing controlled internet access when necessary support system management and update processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
An Edge PC is an intermediate layer computer that collects data from machines and workstations on the production floor and transmits it to the ProManage server or cloud infrastructure. It is configured to operate continuously 24/7.
It is recommended that the Edge PC be positioned solely for data collection purposes. Shared or personal use may negatively affect data collection continuity and system stability.
It can be deployed physically or virtually depending on the need. The choice is made considering the facility infrastructure and project scope
The minimum recommended hardware includes 8 GB RAM, 256 GB disk, a 4-core CPU, and a processor speed of 2.5 GHz or higher. As the scope of data collection increases, resource requirements may also increase.
As a general principle, it is recommended to prepare at least 1 Edge PC per facility. The final number is determined according to the production line structure and project scope.
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