The groov EPIC, GRV-EPIC-PR1, evolved from a need to address the automation problems the industrial, process and manufacturing automation sectors face every day: security, access to data, connectivity, programming limitations, and implementation issues largely attributed to challenges with IT personnel.

There is a new breed of engineer and developers coming into the automation space. They expect openness, software options, and mobility – all baked in, not bolted on!

The groov EPIC is more than an Automation Controller

At first glance, groov EPIC appears similar to a PLC (programmable logic controller) being chassis based for IO (input/output modules) and a processor. However, a deeper look reveals a high-resolution display offering a full management interface to the controller, its IO, and all software running locally on the device.

But do not judge this book by its cover! Looking under the hood reveals the true power of EPIC. A broad and useful array of software capabilities, including a mobile and web-based HMI server, OPC UA drivers for connection to standard, popular PLCs; MQTT publish/subscribe communications with Sparkplug payload; a real-time control engine; and an IBM-developed but now open source data flow editor and runtime called Node-RED.

The groov EPIC is also the first full-featured industrial controller of its kind with Inductive Automation’s Ignition Edge Onboard for connectivity and communications!

EPIC in Automation

The groov EPIC can be utilized in many traditional automation areas, which include:

• Custom Equipment
• Distribution
• Lab and Laboratories
• Office and Building
• Medical and Pharmaceutical
• Food and Beverage
• Energy and Utilities
• RTU (Remote Telemetry Unit)

What is Automation Equipment?

Automation equipment is simply any hardware that can be configured/programmed to automate a task, which is normally done manually.