Integrated Control Unit
- Waterproof IP67
- Shockproof
- Easy to program in Python
- Arduino compatible
- Open Source
Description
ROX Integrated Control Unit (ICU) is a modern, open-source alternative to conventional PLCs, designed for demanding industrial applications. Based on the Adafruit Feather M4 CAN platform, this compact device integrates an automotive-grade microcontroller, digital I/O, analog inputs, and CAN interface into a single, robust package.
Specifications
General
| Dimensions | 62x101x23 mm |
| Weight | 90 gram |
| IO Connectors | JWPF |
| Programming Connector | micro-USB |
| Operating Temperature | -40..75C |
| Ingress Protection | IP67 |
Electrical data
| Operating voltage | 10...40 V DC |
| Nominal voltage | 24 V DC |
| Current consumption (excluding peripherals) |
25 mA typical, 40mA max |
| Reverse polarity protection | yes |
| Short-circuit protection | yes, resettable fuse |
| Overvoltage protection | yes, 65 V tolerant |
| ESD protection | ±16kV Air-Gap ESD and ±8kV Contact ESD |
Digital IO
| Number of inputs/outputs | 8, per-pin configurable |
| Standard compliance | IEC 61131-2 |
| Output modes | high-side (HS) switch, push-pull (PP) driver |
| Input modes | Type 1 and 3, or Type 2 |
| Current limit per output | settable from 130mA to 1.2A |
| Onboard diagnostics | Power Supply Voltage, Open-Wire/Open-Load Detection, Per-Channel Diagnostics |
Analog Inputs
| Number of inputs | 2 |
| Input Range | 0..10V |
| Voltage Reference | 10V +/- 1% |
| Resolution | 12 bit |
Microcontroller
| CPU | ATSAME51 32-bit Cortex M4 core running at 120 MHz, 32-bit |
| Memory | 512 KB flash, 192 KB RAM + 2 MB SPI FLASH |
| Features | Hardware CAN controller, crypto engines AES (256 bit) |
Data Interfaces
| micro-USB | Programming interface, UART, removable storage |
| CAN | Pass-through CAN interface, supports CAN-FD |
Dimensions
Features
connector pins [V+,io,io,GND]
microcontroller
RGB led
with 10V reference
IEC 61131-2 compliant industrial IO
Rugged
The ICU is an IP67-rated industrial controller designed for the harshest environments. Equipped with waterproof connectors, it remains operational even when fully submerged, providing protection against moisture and dust—major threats to field robots. The electronics are fully enclosed in a special resin, shielding them from mechanical vibrations and shocks, ensuring reliability in the toughest conditions.
Easy to program
Programming the ICU is straightforward and accessible thanks to the use of Python. Unlike traditional PLCs or even Arduino, the Python programming environment offers an easier learning curve and doesn't require specialist expertise. Users can program the device either as a remote I/O module, with Python code running on a Raspberry Pi or similar system, or as a standalone unit using CircuitPython. This flexibility and simplicity make the ICU ideal for those familiar with PLCs but seeking a more modern, less complex solution.
See examples
Open-source
The ICU's hardware and software are fully open-source, giving you the freedom to modify, adapt, and enhance the system as needed. With no 'black boxes' or vendor lock-in, you retain full control over your projects. Plus, you benefit from the collective expertise of a passionate community, built upon thousands of hours contributed by the Python and CircuitPython communities, driving continuous improvements and innovations.
Visit Github repository