Compact 3: Embedded Automation Device

In the world of industrial automation, machine builders and system integrators are constantly looking to increase machine productivity and flexibility while adapting to the demands of the future. Choosing the right control platform and automation partner ensures decreased development time and increased machine efficiency and throughput.

KEB’s Compact 3, integrated with KEB’s Automation & IIoT platform (NOA), ensures the demands of today and the future are met with durable hardware and flexible software solutions.

The C6 Compact 3 is a versatile controller designed for low-to-medium-complexity industrial automation applications. Its compact design (25mm x 100mm x 132mm) and Linux operating system based on an open microservice architecture make it an ideal solution for machine builders and system integrators. The container-based technology includes a wide range of software functions and allows for future software integration thanks to its open architecture.

A cost-effective solution for a wide range of applications, the Compact 3 is most commonly used as a real-time motion controller, programmable via IEC 61131-3 languages, IIoT Connectors, Communication Gateways, and HMI Servers.

Industrial Hardware & Flexible Communication Interfaces

This embedded controller is well-suited for space-sensitive control panels with a slim profile and din rail mount. Its small footprint does not sacrifice performance; a multicore 64-bit processor allows for CPU-intensive tasks such as synchronized and coordinated motion. In addition to its size, the Compact 3 is built for a wide range of environments and can operate in temperatures ranging from –20 to 55 °C while powered with 24VDC.

To facilitate easy system configuration, system backup, and data collection a microSD slot is integrated by default. The Compact 3 can be configured with a real-time clock and retain memory to ensure critical data is preserved during system shutdowns or restarts.

Thanks to its modular design, the Compact 3 supports multiple hardware configurations. EtherCAT Master is included as the standard fieldbus, with the option to be configured as CAN Master/Slave that supports RS232, RS485, and TSN. It also supports a wide range of Ethernet protocols such as DNS, NTP, FTP, FTPS, HTTP, HTTPS, and SSH without further integration.

Modular Software Components On An Open Microservice Architecture

Beyond its flexible communication hardware, the Compact 3 runs on a Linux operating system with open, Docker-based microservices that support a wide range of software components.

Each Compact 3 comes preinstalled with NOA Core (Next Open Automation), KEB’s Automation & IIoT platform that enables seamless machine integration. NOA Core handles everything from system configuration and application management to operating system updates and cloud connectivity. Its web-based interface is intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring quick adoption and minimal learning curve.

Ready-to-use applications make PLC control, communication gateway, on premise data collection, and IIoT functionality available without additional development. The apps listed below are a few examples of ready-to-use functions provided by NOA Core running on the Compact 3.

PLC Runtime

• CODESYS Control Runtime. Programmable using IEC 61131-3 languages.
  • BASIC – Deterministic PLC
  • PRO – Synchronous Motion Control (Caming, Gearing, Phasing)
  • ADVANCED – Coordinated Motion Control (CNC, G-Code, Robotics)

Communication

• CODESYS Communication
• OPC UA Client/Server
• Siemens S7 Communication
• Beckhoff ADS Communication
• Allen Bradley CIP Communication

Data Utilities

• JSON Communication
• Data Explorer
• Condition Monitoring

Demanding industrial automation applications require technology that allows machine builders and system integrators to constantly improve machine design and efficiency while planning for future developments. This is made possible through its small footprint, modular communicative interfaces, and open software architecture.

The Compact 3 is engineered with ready-to-use software components via KEB’s automation platform, NOA. Whether its synchronized motion control, communication gateway, or IIoT connector, the Compact 3 is built for today and ready for the future.

Are you interested in evaluating the C6 Compact 3 to see if it’s right for your machine? Contact a KEB America controls engineer today to discuss.