A distributed I/O system allows remote I/O modules (analog/digital inputs/outputs, counters, communication ports, etc.) to be spread across a plant or facility, connected through industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, etc.). These systems reduce wiring complexity, increase flexibility, and improve control system scalability. Advantech is a leading global provider of industrial automation and IoT solutions. Its remote I/O modules and industrial controllers are known for ruggedness, reliability, and integration with SCADA, PLCs, and cloud platforms. 📂 Main Categories of Advantech I/O and Controllers 🔌 1. ADAM Series – Remote I/O Modules ADAM (Advantech Data Acquisition Modules) is the flagship family of distributed I/O modules. ✅ Key Features: Compact, DIN-rail or wall-mountable Protocol support: Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA LED status indicators Built-in surge protection Daisy-chain Ethernet ports (in some models) 📦 Subseries: Model Series Description ADAM-4000 RS-485 based I/O modules (Modbus RTU) ADAM-6000 Ethernet-based I/O modules (Modbus TCP, peer-to-peer communication) ADAM-6200 Daisy-chainable Ethernet I/O with better isolation ADAM-6300 OPC UA, MQTT-enabled I/O for IIoT and Industry 4.0 📌 Common Models: ADAM-6017: 8-ch AI, 2-ch DO ADAM-6050: 12 DI / 6 DO (digital I/O) ADAM-6217: 8-ch AI, Ethernet Modbus TCP ADAM-6317: 8-ch AI, OPC UA & MQTT support 🧠 2. APAX Series – Modular I/O and Controllers Designed for PAC (Programmable Automation Controller) systems, especially where higher computing power or expansion is needed. ✅ Key Features: Modular and hot-swappable design DIN-rail mounting Suitable for mid-to-large scale automation Compatible with IEC 61131-3 programming environments (e.g., Codesys) 📦 Components: Module Function APAX-5000 series Controllers, communication modules APAX-5040/5046 Digital input/output APAX-5017/5028 Analog input modules APAX-5620 RISC-based controller with Ethernet and Modbus 💻 3. WISE Series – Web-enabled I/O Modules WISE (Web Inside, Smart Engine) modules are smart Ethernet-based I/O with logic control, data logging, and web server capabilities. ✅ Key Features: No controller or PLC needed – logic functions are built-in Web-based configuration Supports IF-THEN-ELSE logic Modbus TCP, MQTT, SNMP, RESTful API support 📦 Popular Models: WISE-4012: 4 AI, 2 DO, Wi-Fi connectivity WISE-4050: 4 DI / 4 DO Ethernet-based WISE-4610: Wireless LoRa I/O 🔧 4. ECU Series – Industrial Protocol Gateways and Controllers Edge controllers and protocol gateways for converting between Modbus, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, CANopen, etc. ✅ Features: Industrial Linux or RTOS-based Supports C/C++ and IEC-61131 programming Multiple serial/Ethernet ports Cloud connectivity (Azure, AWS, Advantech WISE-PaaS) 📦 Common Models: ECU-1051: Compact controller with 2 COM ports, Modbus support ECU-1152: Edge controller with Linux, MQTT, Node-RED support ECU-4784: High-performance protocol gateway 🔗 Supported Protocols Modbus RTU/TCP OPC UA MQTT / RESTful API EtherCAT / PROFINET / Ethernet/IP SNMP / WebAccess ✅ Advantages of Advantech I/O & Controllers Scalable architecture from small projects to plant-wide automation Wide protocol support for easy integration Industrial-grade durability (wide temperature, shock/vibration resistant) Edge computing capability with WISE and ECU series Easy setup with Advantech software tools (e.g., DAQNavi, WebAccess, Node-RED) 🏭 Applications Smart manufacturing Building and energy management systems (BEMS) Water and wastewater treatment Oil & gas SCADA systems Machine condition monitoring Smart agriculture and environmental monitoring 📄 Documents Available Product datasheets Wiring diagrams Protocol support manuals Software tools & drivers