The µMIC.200 from MicroControl GmbH & Co. KG is a freely programmable Linux automation controller that combines an IoT gateway, CANopen master, and DIN rail embedded PC in a 62 mm-wide metal housing. Built on a real-time Linux kernel (4.1.18) with an ARM Cortex-A8 processor at 1 GHz and 512 MB DDR3 RAM, it offers dual isolated CAN 2.0A/B interfaces (CANopen FD master library included), dual isolated RS-232 ports, dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, eight software-configurable digital I/O channels, and a 250V/5A changeover relay.

How is the µMIC.200 programmed?

Two programming paths are available. Node-RED provides a browser-based graphical development environment requiring no software installation — users build automation logic by connecting function nodes in a flow-based editor, with instant deployment to the controller over Ethernet. For performance-critical or low-level tasks, C/C++ development uses the Eclipse IDE with libraries and compiled applications that can be integrated as custom Node-RED nodes. The open real-time Linux platform supports VPN-secured remote access and native Industry 4.0 / IIoT connectivity without vendor lock-in. The 4 GB on-board flash is expandable via microSD, and 32 KB of FRAM provides battery-free remnant data storage with a capacitor-buffered real-time clock (~300 h hold-up).

What makes the µMIC.200 suitable for harsh environments?

With an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C — far wider than typical PLCs limited to 0–50°C — a metal (aluminium/plastic composite) casing instead of plastics, and a wide 9–36 VDC supply with reverse-polarity protection, the µMIC.200 is designed for deployment in desert solar farms, arctic installations, and unventilated equipment cabinets. The 2-board construction (CPU board + I/O board) supports customer-specific I/O electronics for volume OEM applications. EMC compliance is to EN 61000-6, with CE marking.