Products
Unipi Iris is a modular platform based on our SBC Unipi Zulu with NXP processor, developed to ensure high performance and maximum flexibility in one device. The possibility to combine individual modules with inputs, outputs, communication interfaces and technologies makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of projects, including industrial automation.
Hardware
Powerful processor module for the most demanding projects
The Iris modular platform is based on the Unipi-developed SBC Unipi Zulu, powered by an NXP i.MX 8M Mini processor (4 × Arm® Cortex®-A53) with a maximum frequency of 1.8 GHz,1 GB RAM and internal 8 GB eMMC memory.
The use of our own processor module allows us to offer support at all levels, implementation of various modifications within custom development and more options for standard development (e.g., expanding RAM, etc.).
Standard modules with a wide selection of inputs, outputs, communication interfaces, and technologies
Depending on the specific module, Iris units can be equipped with the following types of inputs/outputs, communication interfaces, and technologies or their combinations:
- Digital inputs (DI) are designed for reading states of two-state devices such as various digital sensors, switches, and buttons, motion sensors, etc.
- Digital outputs (DO) are applicable for switching two-state devices using direct current (DC) such as locks, external relays, contactors etc. DO’s can be also used for analog control thanks to the pulse-width modulation (PWM) function
- Analog inputs (AI) are designed to measure voltage, current, or resistance in order to read values from various analog sensors (pressure meters, thermometers, tension gauges, etc.)
- Analog outputs (AO) are used to control and regulate devices such as three-way valves, electric motors, frequency inverters, heat exchangers, etc. by direct current or voltage.
- RS485/422 and RS232 interfaces serve for the connection of various external devices (extension units, energy meters, HMI panels, various sensors), or communication with gateways and closed technologies
- 100 Mbit Ethernet port for network communication
- LTE module enabling the Iris platform to use LTE connectivity to the Internet
- Lightning control interface for lighting regulation in home automation and industrial buildings (such as stadiums, halls, etc.), compatible with IEC 62386 and IEC 60929
- PoE (Power over Ethernet) which allows the unit to be powered without the need for an additional power cable
- SSD (Solid state drive) for storing data directly within the unit
The modular design of the Iris platform allows you to a combination of inputs, outputs, communication interfaces, or technologies, and thus create the optimal device for your project.
If you need to expand your project with additional inputs/outputs, but the standard modules do not suit you, a simple and affordable solution is available in the form of the Unipi Extension units. They communicate via the RS485 interface (Modbus RTU protocol) and provide you with enough inputs and outputs without the need to purchase another control unit.
Standard modules overview
| Module | Module size |
Type | Module | Module size |
Type |
| 4× DI | Small | I/O | 2× AI + 1× AO | Small | I/O |
| 8× DI | Large | I/O | LTE | Large | Communication |
| 16× DI | Large | I/O | DALI | Small | Communication |
| 8× DO | Large | I/O | Ethernet (100 Mbit) | Small | Communication |
| 16× DO | Large | I/O | 1× RS232 | Small | Communication |
| 2× DI + 2× DO | Small | I/O | 2× RS485/422 | Small | Communication |
| 8× AI (0–10 V, 4–20 mA) | Large | I/O | PoE | Small | Power supply |
| 8× AI (RTD) | Large | I/O | SSD | Large | Storage |
| 4× AO | Large | I/O | + custom development | ||
Custom modules
Unipi Iris offers extensive custom development and production options. Because it is based on the Unipi-developed SBC Unipi Zulu, we offer the possibility of modifying both the processor module (for example, RAM or internal memory expansion, Ethernet speed, etc.) and individual standard modules. As a result, the Iris platform can be extended with wireless technologies (e.g., LTE, Zigbee, EnOcean), new communication protocols, and additional functions (e.g., 1-Wire, Secure boot, support for external modems or PCIe). You can create your own module according to your ideas by combining I/O and various technologies, or we will take care of the development completely.
Custom branding
Branding of the modular PLC offers graphic modifications of the chassis, name and logo. Together with the software openness, thus enable you to obtain a platform exactly tailored to your project. This makes Unipi Iris an excellent choice for software developers and companies offering Unipi PLCs as part of their own solution. You can find more information about custom production options at this link.
Choose the size of the platform according to the needs of your project
Depending on the number of modules, you can choose from three standard sizes:- Type D1: processor module + 1 section (possibility to fit two small modules or one large)
- Type D2: processor module + 2 sections (both sections can be fitted with two small modules or one large)
- Type D5: processor module + 5 sections (the first two sections can be fitted with two small or one large modules, sections 3 to 5 can be fitted with one small or one large module)
Unipi Iris components are protected by a durable aluminum chassis with IP20 protection, designed for mounting on a standard 35 mm DIN rail (holder and mounting screws are included in the package).
The used technology of metal chassis production allows its graphic design customization according to your wishes. As part of branding, you can get the Iris modular platform in your own color and with your company logo.
Software that does not limit you
Iris controllers are based on the Linux open-source operating system, ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of software solutions, both commercial and open-source. By default, the controllers come with a pre-installed OpenSource image of the operating system, for application programming interface (API) allowing integration of your software or some of the available third-party solutions (Node-RED, etc.). For more information, visit the Choosing the right software article.
Wide application possibilities
Broad communication capabilities, high computing power, software openness, compact dimensions, large selection of modules, and customization options - these features enable the deployment of the Iris modular platform in a wide range of applications, projects, and installations:
- smart buildings
- control and monitoring systems
- HVAC control systems in buildings
- monitoring and optimization of energy consumption and precise invoicing
- SCADA systems for remote management and monitoring
- monitoring and automation of data centers
- monitoring and regulation of photovoltaics
- irrigation control and data collection in agriculture
- Smart City systems
- a gateway between technologies
- and many more
