2. To evaluate a PLC industrial control board, it is essential to consider three factors: its chipset, planning and layout, and the materials used.
3. So, how can one select an appropriate PLC industrial control board?
4. Let’s explore how the quality of the industrial computer motherboard is reflected in two key areas: the wiring planning and layout, as well as the craftsmanship of the industrial computer motherboard.
5. The PLC industrial control board is a vital element of the industrial computer.
6. To assess a PLC industrial control board, one must focus on three aspects: its chipset, planning and layout, and the materials utilized.
7. So, how does one choose the right PLC industrial control board?
8. Let’s delve into how the quality of the industrial computer motherboard manifests in the wiring planning and layout, along with the workmanship involved in its production.
1. The layout of the PLC industrial control board is primarily characterized by the arrangement of various components and the routing of connections. From the perspective of Zechuang Weiye, an excellent PLC industrial control board is akin to a finely crafted piece of art. Manufacturers supplying chipsets provide chipset design guidelines (CHIPSET DESIGN GUIDE) upon shipping to industrial computer motherboard manufacturers. Typically, models based on these specifications, referred to as engineering boards, are also available.
2. Major manufacturers in Europe and America often adhere closely to the specifications of the reference board, ensuring compliance with the standards set by the official chipset. While this guarantees functionality, it can complicate cost control. In contrast, manufacturers in Taiwan frequently innovate in the structural design of industrial computer motherboards to manage costs, often incorporating common design elements into their products.
3. The structure and materials of the PLC industrial control board (1) To reduce costs and remain competitive, some industrial computer motherboard manufacturers find success in the market by utilizing a limited number of board types without relying on standard designs. They may also adjust materials and components to meet only the basic functional requirements of the chipset. This cost-cutting strategy tests the manufacturer’s ability to effectively plan the layout. Fitting the same number of expansion slots into a smaller space while ensuring stability and minimizing interference is crucial. Thus, the rational organization and planning of the industrial computer motherboard’s structure become particularly significant. Any slight planning flaws can lead to crashes, and manufacturers lacking capability often make errors in these areas. Consequently, unstable motherboards and inadequate functionality are often a result of these issues. Therefore, unless specific requirements dictate otherwise, it is advisable to use a standard version of the planned industrial computer motherboard. Distinguishing a public version plan depends on the user’s understanding of the chipset. (2) The positioning of interface components on the industrial computer motherboard is generally fixed and cannot be altered arbitrarily. For instance, expansion slots like PICMG and connectors for keyboard, mouse, and USB must align with openings on the chassis to maintain their relative orientation. In some instances, a new case baffle may be introduced to replace the original baffle, facilitating the new interface layout. (3) The layout of the CPU and chipset is crucial, as the circuitry connecting the CPU to the chipsets is particularly significant. Given that chipset manufacturers impose specific design requirements, regional planning for the CPU, chipset, and their surroundings typically follows public version standards. (4) Apart from the expansion slots, CPU, and chipsets, other components can be arranged with more flexibility. For example, the ATX power interface socket should be located away from the CPU fan to enhance heat dissipation within the case. (5) The layout of the industrial computer motherboard must be logical. Some design considerations for industrial computer motherboards may not be exhaustive. Buyers should pay attention to specific details, such as the proximity of capacitors to the CPU interface, which may impact the fan, among other factors. These considerations are essential when making a purchase.
**Four, Industrial Computer Motherboard PCB Design and Wiring Planning**
(1) Before discussing wiring planning, Zechuang Weiye first introduces a key concept: the distance between the north bridge chip and the CPU and memory is crucial for industrial computer motherboard design, commonly referred to as “equal-length clock lines.” The Northbridge chip serves as a vital link between the CPU and memory, requiring careful layout. Currently, some industrial motherboard manufacturers with strong R&D capabilities adopt a clever 45-degree rotation in the organization and arrangement of the north bridge chip. This approach not only reduces the wiring length between the north bridge, CPU, memory slots, and AGP slot, but also ensures equal-length clock lines.
(2) Wiring planning for industrial computer motherboards is a specialized knowledge area that varies based on distinct circuit characteristics requiring different planning and processing techniques. The “serpentine wiring” approach used in these motherboards is particularly refined. Some mistakenly believe that a greater number of serpentine lines indicates a higher level of planning, but this is incorrect. There are two primary reasons for using serpentine wiring: first, it ensures equal length of wiring lines. The clock line from the CPU to the Northbridge chip differs from those in typical electronic devices, operating at approximately 100MHz. Signal integrity is sensitive to line length; unequal clock line lengths can result in signal discrepancies, leading to system instability. Thus, zigzag routing may be necessary to adjust lengths. Second, serpentine wiring minimizes the impact of electromagnetic interference (EMI) on other motherboard components and human safety. High-speed, uniform digital signals can significantly disrupt analog device functionality on the motherboard. A practical method to mitigate EMI is to employ snake-shaped wiring, which helps absorb and dissipate radiation effectively. While serpentine wiring offers these benefits, it does not imply that more serpentine lines are always better. Excessive and densely packed wiring can create uneven density in the motherboard layout, negatively impacting its quality. Optimal wiring should maintain consistent line density across the industrial computer motherboard, promoting even distribution to prevent instability. Today’s discussion centers on selecting a suitable PLC industrial control board, which we hope will be beneficial.
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