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Advantech Unveils AFE-R360: A Next-Generation AMR Solution with MIPI-CSI & GMSL Camera Integration Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra

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TAIPEI, Oct. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Advantech (TWSE: 2395), a global leader in AIoT and Edge Computing, is thrilled to introduce the AFE-R360. The AFE-R360 focuses on Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) and robot market, designed to meet the evolving demands for vision sensors and performance. In a move that underscores its commitment to cutting-edge technology, Advantech successfully integrates MIPI-CSI and GMSL sensor technologies with x86 Intel® Core™ Ultra platform. This milestone marks a first in the industry, setting a new standard for performance and versatility in robotics. Additionally, AFE-R360 comes with Advantech Robotic Suite, which includes a ROS2-ready environment and AI tools, to streamline the development process and foster innovation in robotics.

Advanced AI and Image Processing with the Intel® Core™ Ultra Processor
“With Support from Intel®, Advantech’s AFE-R360, powered by Intel’s Core Ultra processors, offers a powerful edge computing platform for complex robotic applications. Featuring an integrated GPU, NPU, MIPI-CSI (direct and GMSL) and Intel® RealSense™ Depth Camera D457 support, along with the Intel® OpenVINO™ toolkit, it delivers exceptional performance, with low power consumption and versatility for AI-driven tasks. This product is an ideal choice for building and deploying cutting-edge robotic solutions.” — Rajesh Kurusetty, Director of Product, Robotics

To process high-resolution images and conduct AI analysis, AFE-R360 harnesses the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra Processor. Designed for efficiency, Intel® Core™ Ultra integrates an NPU and GPU, striking a perfect balance of performance and power usage, making AFE-R360 ideal for battery-powered mobile robots. The platform overall delivers 32 TOPS , enabling it to handle AI detection tasks and adapt to dynamic surroundings. For users requiring higher performance to run complex AI models, AFE-R360 also offers AI-scalability solutions, through an M.2 slot with a Hailo module, or USB4 interface MIOe-UMXM with A4500 MXM GPUs, boosting AI performance by up to 4 times.

1st Off-the-shelf MIPI & GMSL Solution Available on the Intel Platform
As industries increasingly rely on advanced imaging technologies, Advantech is excited to announce the integration of MIPI-CSI and GMSL technologies into AFE-R360. MIPI/GMSL technology allows uncompressed, high frame rate input with speeds up to 8 Gbps (4 lanes). In addition, GMSL transmits data over distances of up to 15 meters. AFE-R360 also comes with 3 USB-C and 3 Ethernet ports, designed to accommodate LiDar, ToF, and traditional RGB cameras, satisfying the needs of both new and existing technology in robotics.

While MIPI/GMSL interfaces provide higher bandwidth and lower latency, they also add complexity to driver development compared to standardized UVC camera drivers. Advantech initiated a partner alignment strategy, gathering together top-tier camera technology providers such as Intel® RealSense™, e-con Systems, Innodisk, and oToBrite to develop camera solutions for AFE-R360. Through these partnerships, we are thrilled to share our successful results and make our camera solutions available to customers.

“Advantech is proud to collaborate with Intel and camera vendors to strengthen our AMR solution. By incorporating MIPI and GMSL interfaces into AFE-R360, Advantech is committed to providing our customers with cutting-edge technology that meets the challenges of tomorrow. These interfaces not only enhance performance but also enable new possibilities in imaging applications across various industries.” – James Wang, Director of Embedded Applications at Advantech

The AFE-R360DVK offers an efficient user experience as a MIPI and GMSL solution, with BIOS settings, camera drivers, Ubuntu OS, ROS2, and camera modules pre-installed and fully tested. This makes AFE-R360DVK an ideal choice for applications such as AMR, patrol robots, and smart transportation. The system is set to launch in October 2024.

Dedicated I/O and Expansion Designs for AMR
AFE-R360 is specifically designed to meet the precise I/O needs of AMRs, maximizing space and efficiency by integrating necessary I/O directly into a compact 3.5″ SBC.

Key Features:
I/O Configuration:

2 x CAN FD ports for battery and motor control.4 x RS-232/422/485 UART ports for various robotic and vehicle sensors.Up to 7 x USB and 3 x LAN ports to support RGB cameras, LiDAR, and IMU.DC-in 12–24V to accommodate diverse charging configurations.

Expansion Capabilities:

4 x M.2 expansion slots for flexible configurations.Wireless connectivity options via M.2 E-Key and B-Key, supporting 4G/5G/Wi-Fi. The inclusion of the Advantech AIW module ensures to support fast roaming feature.2 x M.2 M-Key slots to support RAID, providing substantial storage capacity for image and sensor data.M.2 Hailo module expansion for an additional 26 TOPS of NPU performance, enhancing capabilities for advanced AI applications.1 x USB4 support for MXM GPU card expansion, through MIOe-UMXM.

AFE-R360’s comprehensive I/O design guarantees versatile and upgradable performance for AMRs across a variety of scenarios.

Streamline AMR Development with the Advantech Robotic Suite 
The development process for an R&D team can be lengthy and arduous. Advantech aims to accelerate this journey by offering innovative and seamless software solutions for AMR development teams. Our verified ROS environment, APIs, and AI tools in Advantech Robotic Suite, streamline key AMR functions such as vehicle control, navigation, SLAM, and pallet barcode recognition, allowing customers to begin robotic development more easily and quickly. AFE-R360 is now available for order.

To learn more information about AFE-R360, please visit here.
To learn more AMR and robotic solutions from Advantech, please visit here.

About Advantech

Advantech’s corporate vision is to “Enable an Intelligent Planet”. As a global leader in the fields of IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms, the company embraces the trends of IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence. Advantech promotes IoT hardware and software solutions with its industrial IoT platform – WISE-IoT core, to assist business partners and clients in connecting their industrial chains. Advantech is also working with business partners to co-create business ecosystems that accelerate the advancement of industrial intelligence. (www.advantech.com)

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PCS Software Appoints Danielle Villegas as Chief Product Officer

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HOUSTON, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — PCS Software, a leading transportation management system (TMS) provider, today announced the appointment of Danielle Villegas as Chief Product Officer (CPO). In this role, Villegas will lead the company’s product strategy and roadmap, driving innovation and growth across its suite of TMS solutions.

PCS Software announced the appointment of Danielle Villegas as Chief Product Officer (CPO).

Villegas brings over 20 years of experience in software product management, with a proven track record of building and launching successful products across various industries. She possesses a deep understanding of the customer journey and a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to develop competitive solutions that address critical market needs.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Danielle to the PCS team,” said Mark Hill, CEO of PCS Software. “Having previously collaborated with Danielle at W Energy and Allegro, I’ve firsthand experience of her strategic vision, strong leadership, and ability to deliver results. Her strong analytical and customer-centric approach, will be instrumental in propelling our product development efforts and further solidifying our position as a leader in the TMS market.”

Prior to joining PCS, Villegas served as Vice President of Product at SkySpecs, where she implemented best-in-class product management processes and led the product roadmap for a multi-product SaaS/mobile app portfolio. Her experience also includes leadership roles at W Energy Software, 5, Cenergistic, and Allegro Development.

“I am excited to join PCS at such a pivotal time in the company’s growth,” said Villegas. “By listening to our customers’ needs and leveraging cutting-edge technology, we’ll deliver the tools and capabilities they need to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace.”

About PCS Software:

PCS Software is a leading provider of transportation management solutions, dedicated to empowering transportation and logistics companies to streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and maximize profitability. With a suite of advanced software tools, PCS supports shippers and carriers in managing their end-to-end transportation processes, from planning and execution to compliance and analytics. Committed to innovation and customer success, PCS continually enhances its product offerings to address the evolving needs of the industry. To learn more about PCS Software, visit www.pcssoft.com.

Media Contact:

Susan Collins

Media Relations Specialist

63rdandeliot@gmail.com

770-654-7054

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pcs-software-appoints-danielle-villegas-as-chief-product-officer-302291665.html

SOURCE PCS Software

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Race Communications Brings 10G Fiber Internet to Four New Markets in Central California

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SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Race Communications, California’s leading internet service provider, proudly announces the expansion of its fiber-optic network into four new communities across the state. The cities of Merced, Turlock, Porterville, and Atwater are just the latest to join the Race Communications’ coverage areas, gaining access to the fastest fiber internet in California. Construction is underway to bring service to 82,000 homes and businesses. Some residents will be able to get service in early 2025.

“This new expansion is one of our largest and most exciting yet,” Raul Alcaraz, CEO of Race Communications, said. “Our recent growth is extraordinary, allowing us to bring reliable, future-proof fiber internet to diverse communities, from vibrant college cities to more rural family-focused towns.”

Race offers customers everything they need to stay connected, including fast fiber internet speeds, reasonable rates, and California-based local customer support. Customers can expect exceptional internet performance, streamlining their communication and connection with the world. With its 100% fiber-optic network, super-fast streaming capabilities speeds up to 10 Gbps, and California-based local customer support, Race provides reliable, future-proof fiber internet with plans starting at just $35 a month.

Merced is just one of the communities excited about fiber internet coming to their city.

“The arrival of a new broadband provider is a tremendous win for our community. Expanding high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved areas will make a real difference for families, businesses, and students across Merced,” Mayor Matthew Serratto said. “With expanded connectivity options available to our residents, we can strengthen our local economy, improve education, and give every resident the opportunity to succeed in today’s digital age. This investment in our infrastructure is an important move toward a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous future for everyone in Merced.”

About Race Communications:
Race Communications is a leading provider of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) services, committed to delivering reliable, high-speed internet to communities across California. Founded in 1994, Race has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of communities and continues to expand its network to reach underserved and rural areas. Race is dedicated to bridging the digital divide and providing cutting-edge technology to all Californians. To date, Race has leveraged public grants and private investments totaling more than $850M.

For more information, please visit the Race Communications website at race.com or call 877.722.3833

For media inquiries, please contact:

Marketing@race.com

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FireflySci Implements New Payment Policy to Ensure Business Stability Amid Economic Challenges

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FireflySci, a leading American provider of high-quality scientific laboratory equipment, has announced a crucial change in its payment policy, effective immediately. In response to escalating economic pressures and the challenges of increasing customer debt, the company will now require payments at the time of order.

NORTHPORT, N.Y., Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — FireflySci, renowned for its precision-engineered cuvette products used in spectroscopy, has been a trusted partner in the scientific community for years. However, the current economic climate, characterized by rising inflation and extensive customer requests for extended payment terms—some reaching up to Net 90 days—is posing significant cash flow challenges for this small business.

We are confident that this updated policy will allow us to strengthen our operations and continue to provide the best possible service and support to our customers.

“While we value the relationships we’ve built with our customers over the years, the current financial environment necessitates this change,” said Sim Woitovich, CEO of FireflySci. “The decision to require immediate payment wasn’t made lightly. It is a necessary step to ensure we continue providing the quality products our customers depend on.”

The demand for longer payment terms has become increasingly common, putting small businesses like FireflySci in a precarious financial position. This extended credit can lead to a strain on resources, making it difficult to reinvest in product development and maintain operational efficiencies. By implementing this policy, FireflySci aims to safeguard its ability to deliver exceptional service and maintain its reputation for excellence in the spectroscopy field.

Global inflation has compounded these challenges by increasing the costs of raw materials and operational expenses. This new payment policy is designed not only to secure the company’s financial health but also to ensure it can continue to innovate and support scientists worldwide.

“We are committed to finding balanced solutions that meet our clients’ needs without compromising our business stability,” continued Sim. “We are confident that this updated policy will allow us to strengthen our operations and continue to provide the best possible service and support to our customers.”

FireflySci is determined to make this transition smooth for its clientele. The company is reaching out directly to its partners to discuss the new terms and ensure a seamless adaptation. The goal is to maintain transparency and open lines of communication while reinforcing the trusted partnerships that FireflySci has cultivated over the years.

As FireflySci navigates these economic challenges, it remains dedicated to its mission of advancing scientific discovery through reliable, high-quality cuvette products. This payment policy change marks a significant step in preserving the company’s legacy of innovation and excellence.

About FireflySci

FireflySci is a small American business that is a premier provider of optical spectroscopy and calibration standards, specializing in the manufacturing of cuvettes for laboratories and research institutions. Committed to quality and precision, FireflySci supports scientists in achieving accurate and reliable research results worldwide.

Media Contact

Sim Woitovich, FireflySci, 347-441-4277, info@fireflysci.com, www.fireflysci.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/fireflysci-implements-new-payment-policy-to-ensure-business-stability-amid-economic-challenges-302293608.html

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