The ALPON X4 is an edge computing device designed for industrial automation and smart home solutions. By integrating OpenPLC, an open-source automation platform, the ALPON X4 becomes a powerful IoT gateway for SCADA systems, real-time processing, and remote monitoring. It provides reliable LTE connectivity and is one of the best choices for Industrial IoT (IIoT), smart home systems and SCADA research because it is easy to integrate, flexible, efficient, and secure.
What Is ALPON X4 and How Does It Work with OpenPLC?
The ALPON X4 is a rugged edge computing device powered by the Raspberry Pi CM4, offers high-speed processing for PLC programming and automation tasks, and with flexible connectivity options (Ethernet, Wi-Fi and LTE) the device is online anywhere.
OpenPLC is an open-source free tool Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) that supports SCADA research, IoT solutions, and automation projects. It allows creating custom automation systems without the use of expensive software. By running OpenPLC on ALPON X4, users get a cost-effective, scalable platform for real-time processing and remote monitoring via the cloud.
Edge Computing for Automations
ALPON X4 leverages advanced edge computing architecture to process data locally. This reduces latency, enhances responsiveness, and minimizes dependency on external networks. Ideal for both industrial and home automation, the device enables real-time decision-making and improves overall system reliability. With ALPON X4, data is processed at the source, ensuring faster execution and smarter automation.
Always Connected with LTE eSIM Backup
ALPON X4 guarantees uninterrupted operations with LTE connectivity and eSIM support. If the primary network fails, it automatically Whether for industrial automation or smart home systems, the ALPON X4 keeps your operations always-online and under control.
Key Benefits of ALPON X4 for Industrial Automation
ALPON X4 offers many advantages for industrial automation projects:
- High Performance: With Raspberry Pi CM4 processing power, it enables fast PLC programming and execution.
- Robust Design: The fanless aluminum case makes it suitable for harsh environments.
- Secure Operations: TPM 2.0 and encrypted communications protect against cyber attacks.
- Scalability: Easily manage and maintain multiple devices through ALPON Cloud for large-scale IIoT deployments.
Why Choose OpenPLC for Open-Source Automation?
OpenPLC is a flexible and open-source automation platform that supports a wide range of applications across industrial, commercial, and home automation environments. Key features include:
- SCADA systems integration: Easily integrates with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, allowing for centralized monitoring and management of complex automation processes.
- Remote monitoring and control: Enables users to monitor and control devices and processes from anywhere, improving efficiency, safety, and responsiveness.
- Compatibility with multiple IoT gateway protocols: Supports various industrial communication standards and IoT protocols, ensuring seamless connectivity across devices and platforms.
This makes it a perfect match for ALPON X4, enabling seamless industrial automation solutions.
Getting Started with ALPON X4 X OpenPLC Integration
Deploying OpenPLC on the ALPON X4 edge computer enables robust industrial automation and smart home solutions with containerized efficiency. Below is a simplified overview of the installation process; see the complete OpenPLC deployment guide for full technical details.
Setup Summary
- Containerized Environment
- OpenPLC runs in a Docker container for isolated, scalable deployment.
- Preconfigured Dockerfile installs dependencies (e.g., WiringPi, SSH) and clones the OpenPLC repository.
- Key Files
- hardware_layers/: Custom drivers for device interaction.
- entrypoint.sh: Auto-starts OpenPLC and SSH services on boot.
- Dockerfile: ARM64-compatible build for ALPON X4’s Raspberry Pi CM4.
- Build & Deployment
- Build the container locally for ARM64:
- Push to Sixfab Registry and deploy via Sixfab Connect with:
- Ports: 8080 (OpenPLC web UI), 502 (Modbus TCP), 22 (SSH).
- Volumes: Map /dev/gpiomem for GPIO access.
- Enable Privileged Mode for hardware permissions.
4. Industrial Protocols: Supports Modbus, DNP3, IEC 60870-5-104 for seamless integration with SCADA systems and IIoT devices.
ALPON X4 in IoT and SCADA Research Applications
The ALPON X4 is an ideal platform for researchers, engineers, and developers working on next-generation automation and control systems. With its powerful edge computing capabilities and flexible connectivity, it supports a wide range of applications in industrial research.
Key use cases include:
- SCADA Research in Smart Grids and Water Management: ALPON X4 provides a reliable and scalable platform for simulating and testing SCADA systems in critical infrastructure projects such as smart energy grids and water systems.
- Edge AI/ML for Predictive Maintenance: By enabling local execution of AI and machine learning models, ALPON X4 supports predictive maintenance that reduces downtime and improves asset efficiency in industrial environments.
- Industrial IoT Testing with Real-Time Data Analytics: Researchers can deploy and validate Industrial IoT (IIoT) use cases with real-time data collection, processing, and visualization—directly at the edge, without reliance on cloud services.
Elevate Your Automation Infrastructure
ALPON X4 X is a great choice for OpenPLC integration, industrial automation and smart home automation. Edge computing, LTE connectivity and open source automation provide a scalable, secure and efficient solution for modern automation needs. Whether SCADA systems, remote monitoring or PLC programming, it offers high performance and reliability for all.
Explore the future of automation with ALPON X4 and OpenPLC today!