DeviceMaster® ATS Application Server
DeviceMaster ATS is a family of solid-state, remotely manageable, fully programmable embedded microcomputers designed to host mission-critical applications without the overhead, expense, and high failure rates of general-purpose PC servers. There are several options that enable expansion of the DeviceMaster ATS to suit specific application needs including; storage options, additional serial ports, and a PCMCIA carrier that supports a wide variety of peripherals like PCMCIA modems, wireless Ethernet, and compact Flash carrier cards and more!
Next Generation Computing...
During the past two decades, the pace and frequency of deploying general-purpose PCs for mission-critical applications has increased at an astounding rate. Why? Because they are relatively inexpensive and can run virtually any type of application program. But only now are we beginning to understand the real cost that these systems can impose.
General-Purpose PCs — Can You Afford a Crash?
Consider the complexity of processing multiple applications within a general-purpose PC. The operating system must be highly robust, because the manufacturer must support processing for virtually any type or size program. To achieve this capability, the operating system grows in size and complexity. And with this growth comes the increased chance of logic and processing errors. The result is that many times, when running multiple applications (simultaneously or sequentially), the operating system and hardware become unstable, causing conflicts and ultimately a system crash. And when these systems are controlling mission-critical equipment from security monitoring systems to gas pumps, the impact can be very serious-ranging from possible loss of life to a financial loss that can run into the millions of dollars.
Minimizing Downtime
For years, developers of mission-critical systems have relied on "purpose-built" platforms as a way of increasing reliability. These purpose-built microcomputers, such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), have streamlined operating systems and typically run only a few application programs. They are interconnected with other purpose-built microcomputers using Ethernet for communicating with one another and with enterprise management applications.
DeviceMaster ATS — Developer-Ready Embedded Microcomputer
Comtrol understands the true costs of downtime and wants to help you effectively manage it. Our DeviceMaster ATS is an off-the-shelf, configurable, highly reliable "purpose-built" microcomputer that can be used for developing and deploying "purpose-built applications." Now you can get the processing power you need without the overhead and complexity of a general-purpose operating system that often results in system crashes or the dreaded Blue Screen. DeviceMaster ATS models are available in a variety of configurations running today's most popular operating systems. With its many expansion options, you can easily customize the system to your specific processing requirements.
DeviceMaster ATS Delivers Platform Reliability, Saves Time, and More ...
As your embedded delivery platform, DeviceMaster ATS provides many benefits over general-purpose PCs or "build-your-own" embedded computers.
- No Assembly Required! Building a reliable embedded computer is more than assembling parts-system design, layout, and testing is required. Peripheral integration and testing must be accomplished. And then you add the software-operating system, device drivers, communications, and installation routines. Be first to market because Comtrol has done all this for you, to eliminate the time and cost of building your own system.
- Platform Reliability. Embedded computers have become popular as developers seek a more reliable processing platform. DeviceMaster ATS delivers with its solid-state design, low-overhead operating systems, and remote management capabilities.
- Time-to-Market. When you are fighting the clock, selecting a pre-assembled, fully tested and supported embedded computing platform can compress your development time, which can translate into competitive advantage and higher profits.
- Familiar Development Environment. Whether you select Microsoft® Windows or Linux for your DeviceMaster ATS, you get a familiar operating system that lets you develop or port your applications in no time. And if you think you might change in the future, consider the Comtrol framework architecture that provides a development environment with operating system portability.
Network-Connected Local Computing
Utilizing its Ethernet connection, the DeviceMaster ATS can communicate with other devices attached anywhere on your network. The configurable IP provides straightforward network integration. A second Ethernet connection can be used to create a dedicated subnet to reduce network traffic between the DeviceMaster ATS and other specified devices. The DeviceMaster ATS can also be easily configured as a router to connect two networks.
Deploy It Anywhere
The DeviceMaster ATS' compact size lets you deploy it virtually anywhere. The system's metal housing and mounting brackets make it ideal for industrial environments. And when you locate the ATS remotely, you can add a modem to easily connect to the outside world.
Easily Expand Storage, Ports, and Peripherals
There are several options that enable expansion of the DeviceMaster ATS to suit specific application needs:
- Storage capacity can be increased to provide additional space for larger applications and data storage.
- The number of serial ports can be increased to allow connection of additional devices or communication with more systems.
- A wide variety of peripherals can be added using the optional PCMCIA carrier. Supported devices include: PCMCIA modems, wireless Ethernet, and compact Flash carrier cards for even more storage capacity.
