RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), a global multi-channel distributor, has launched an IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) development kit for the HARTING MICA (Modular Industry Computing Architecture) edge computer.

The HARTING MICA CISS (Connected Industrial Sensor Solution) IIoT kit (RS part no. 176-2224) is a simple plug-and-play system that enables fast digital condition monitoring of multiple sensor inputs from machinery. This is the first plug-and-play IIoT development kit to offer IP54 protection, making it suitable for long-term use in factory automation environments as well as for prototyping and evaluation.

Condition monitoring using physical measurements such as temperature and vibration is an efficient way to constantly monitor and improve the operation of machinery and plants. Changes in machine behaviour can be identified quickly and appropriate action taken. However, it can be expensive to integrate suitable monitoring equipment into existing industrial systems.

The MICA CISS IIoT kit — between the HARTING Technology Group and Bosch Connected Devices and Solutions — integrates a Bosch CISS multiple sensor unit with a MICA edge computer. Firing up the software requires only a few simple steps, so sensor data is acquired almost immediately.

The compact, IP54-rated CISS sensor unit can be attached to any surface and can measure up to eight physical parameters: temperature; humidity; vibration; change of position; pressure; light; magnetic field; and acoustics. The robust, IP67-rated MICA computer can be installed right next to machinery, without the need for a control cabinet. MICA connects to the sensor unit and local network via industry standard connectors.

Sensor data is displayed in MQTT format via the integrated browser-based Node-Red dashboard. Data can be analysed and stored in any IT system or IoT platform. A Microsoft Azure Cloud gateway is preinstalled and configured using NodeRed.

RS offers several ways to power the MICA CISS IIoT kit, depending on the operating environment. Engineers with access to a benchtop power supply should purchase a simple M8 A-coded power lead (RS part no. 111-3557); wiring guidelines are included with the development kit. Engineers without benchtop power will need a power-over-Ethernet (PoE) plugtop power supply (RS part no. 765-3345, multiregion capable) and an RJ45 Ethernet cable (RS part no. 843-6511). Factory engineers with a 48 V power source should purchase a DC/DC PoE enabled industrial hub (RS part no. 843-9190).

The HARTING MICA CISS IIoT kit is shipping now from RS in the EMEA and Asia Pacific regions.