The Gantner Q.station XB is a high-performance edge controller designed for the most demanding data acquisition, control, and automation tasks in test and measurement environments. At its core lies a real-time Linux operating system, which provides the deterministic behavior and long-term reliability required for 24/7 industrial operation. The controller functions as the intelligent hub of the Q.series X platform, capable of synchronizing and managing up to 64 mixed-signal Q.bloxx I/O modules. Its exceptional data throughput is driven by four high-speed UART interfaces, each operating at 48 Mbaud, enabling the system to sample 16 channels simultaneously at 100 kHz or 128 channels at 10 kHz. This makes the Q.station XB an ideal solution for applications requiring high-density, high-speed data capture, such as structural testing, battery validation, and advanced manufacturing monitoring.

Communication is a cornerstone of the Q.station XB's design, ensuring seamless integration into diverse industrial and IT networks. The controller features a 1 Gig-E Ethernet port that supports TCP/IP, UDP, Modbus TCP/IP, and ASCII protocols, achieving data transfer rates of up to 16 MB/s. A built-in web server and client, along with email functionality, facilitate remote configuration, monitoring, and alarm notification. For field-level connectivity, a dedicated RS485 interface supports both high-speed LocalBus communication (up to 48 Mbps) and standard Modbus-RTU/ASCII protocols (up to 115.2 kbps). The controller also offers optional connectivity to CAN, ProfiNET, and EtherCAT networks, providing maximum flexibility for system architects. Precise time synchronization across distributed systems is achieved via an IRIG 2 based master-slave principle, with an impressive accuracy of ±1 μs over RS485.

Data integrity and storage are paramount in any measurement system, and the Q.station XB excels in this area with its high-speed redundant data logging capabilities. The controller is equipped with a substantial 500 MB dynamic data buffer and a 4 GB static memory, ensuring that no critical measurement data is lost, even during network interruptions. Storage capacity can be further expanded via USB (supporting up to 1,000,000 measurements per second) and standard SD cards. This robust logging architecture guarantees a complete and tamper-proof record of all test data, which is essential for regulatory compliance and detailed post-test analysis. An internal 1 GB RAM and 4 GB flash memory provide the necessary resources for both system operation and user applications.

Beyond its role as a data acquisition engine, the Q.station XB is a fully-fledged Programmable Automation Controller (PAC). The "T" versions of the controller unlock an extensive library of advanced functions, including fast PID control loops, complex process control algorithms, mathematical and Boolean operations, transfer functions, and function generators. This PAC functionality empowers the Q.station XB to act as a standalone automation platform, capable of executing closed-loop control strategies directly at the edge. The controller also features six onboard digital inputs, which can be configured for high-speed encoder readings, PWM analysis, counter measurements, or monitoring state signals. Housed in a robust, compact enclosure and designed for standard DIN rail mounting (EN60715), the Q.station XB operates on a 10-30 VDC power supply and is built to withstand harsh industrial conditions, with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and full compliance with EN61000-4 and EN55011 EMC standards.

Technical Specifications