Advanced Control Center

Powerful module with advanced control and communication capabilities

Advanced automation

speed up the automation of complex systems with the optimized operation of up to 25 modules

Optimized communication

compatible with any control system featuring a serial port

EASY INTEGRATION

compact footprint and mechanical fixation points

Talk to an expert

The Advanced Control Center is the module dedicated to controlling all the modules of the Advanced range. This module is a dedicated PLC (programmable logic controller) for microfluidic engineering and can be considered the brain of the fluid-handling brick. When paired with an Advanced Hub module, it can control any combination of up to 25 Advanced Elveflow modules. Up to 4 valves can also be directly connected to its interface.

Automation of microfluidics has never been so easy. The Advanced Control Center is compatible with any control system featuring a serial port. Supplied with its own UART communication protocols, it ensures maximum scalability and compatibility.

Program microfluidic instructions and save them directly in the module so your experiments run without any computer connection. Move up from prototyping to production thanks to the Advanced Control Center’s ability to handle up to 5 sequences in parallel. Every feature is here from flow control feedback loop to conditional logic and subroutines.

With a compact footprint, a RS232 connector, mechanical fixation points, and CEM certified electronics, the Advanced Control Center is robust and adaptable to most integration.

MAIN TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Computer Connection: RS232 – DB-9
Number of Module Connections: 5
Number of Controlled Valves: 4
Type of Valves: 2 wires 24V
Communication Type: Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART)
Software control: Yes, using the ESI
Number of Channels Available: 5, up to 25 using Advanced Hubs
Autonomous from PC: Yes

DOWNLOADS

ASSOCIATED PRODUCTS

FAQ

What are the advantages of the range in terms of system management?

The Advanced range simplifies things by handling up to 25 modules with a single serial connection. On the contrary, the off-the-shelf instruments are each directly connected to a computer through a USB connection. Therefore, 25 instruments means 25 USB connections, which is a nightmare! Here, the Advanced range, with its single connection, introduces simplicity for complex configurations.

Can I use the Advanced range if I am not familiar with UART communication protocols?

If you are not familiar with this UART communication, do not worry. The Advanced part of the Elveflow software is for you. It has been designed to make it easier to understand UART commands and the architecture of the Advanced range. Moreover, our team provides documentation such as application notes and use cases to help.

Is there software available with the Advanced range?

Yes, the Advanced range is compatible with the ESI, the Elveflow software. Once the user establishes a connection between the control center and the ESI, all the modules connected to the control center are in turn automatically recognized by the software.

The software has been developed as a tool to understand the basics of UART. The aim is to impart and speed up the control and learning of the Advanced range. The user will find translations of software actions into UART commands and it will also be possible to directly copy the function to a sequencer.

Our goal with this software is to help our users make an easy and smooth transition to UART command code.

Can you control and start/stop/pause a sequence with a simple touch button?

Yes, it is possible. How so? You can integrate a touchscreen into the Advanced ecosystem. Our R&D team worked on a prototype of such a system to showcase this possibility. Without any computer connection, by touching the play button on the screen, it is possible to launch a sequence and then stop it by touching the stop button.

Can the module be easily integrated into a more complete prototype?

Installation of the Advanced Control Center in a more complete prototype is facilitated thanks to its own fixation points. The module can then be held in position and no preferred mounting orientation is necessary, ensuring a high degree of freedom.

To help integrate the entire Advanced range, the modules only have two form factors. Hence, the integration is neater as all the modules can be stacked up in an optimal way. The Advanced Assembly Kit, provided as an option, can also smooth the mechanical integration as it includes brackets to help the assembly.

Does Elveflow provide support?

We provide you with support from our team experts throughout your project, either with documentation available for free on our website or through direct contact, not only with the Advanced range but with all our product range. We also offer a range of experimental training courses in microfluidic and microfabrication. For integration purposes, we offer introduction to UART communication protocols and SDK. We prefer to see our relationship as a collaboration, where as a client you can benefit from our expertise.