VisuNet GXP Designed for Zone 1/21
Modular System
The VisuNet GXP’s modularity enables fast and simple assembly and replacement of key components in the field. The display unit in two sizes, the computing unit, and the power supply unit are easy to install or to replace. This eases maintenance and enhances the availability of the HMI system and production process.
Compact Design
Depending on space availability in your plant, you can choose between two display sizes of the VisuNet GXP series. Both versions, the 19” (48 cm) and 21,5” (55 cm), provide a gap-free surface with a complete stainless steel design, so liquids, dirt, and bacteria have no chance to accumulate. Thus, the VisuNet GXP series meet the hygienic requirements of GMP guidelines.
Light Weight
Unlike other HMI solutions in Zone 1/21, the VisuNet GXP Remote Monitor is a true lightweight. Due to its weight of less than 23 kg, it offers a great mounting flexibility. Besides the standard panel mounting, several options like pedestal mounting, wall bracket and ceiling mounting options can be used.
VisuNet RM Shell
Equipped with the latest thin client firmware generation RM Shell, the VisuNet GXP can be easily configured and connected via standard Ethernet to the process control system from Zone 1/21 into the safe area. Combined with the new centralized management software VisuNet Control Center, the solution brings the benefits of Industry 4.0 to Zone 1/21 and Zone 2/22.
NEWBringing RFID Into Zone 1/21VisuNet GXP with Integrated RFID Reader
RFID technology makes authentication and identification processes simpler, faster, and more secure. This is why Pepperl+Fuchs is now bringing RFID into explosion-hazardous areas up to ATEX/IECEx Zone 1/21: The VisuNet GXP display unit* can be configured with an integrated RFID reader. It is based on the stand-alone RFID20 component from Pepperl+Fuchs, which supports common RFID-based access cards such as LEGIC and MIFARE and is compatible with leading identification and authentication systems such as PM-Logon from Siemens, LogOnPlus from obion, and the Connected Worker Platform from Nymi.
*AC power option only
Remote Monitor or PC
The VisuNet GXP is available as a remote monitor or as a PC. Remote monitors are equipped with an innovative thin client unit and display the screen of a host pc in hazardous areas. If a stand-alone PC version is needed, the VisuNet GXP is equipped with a powerful computing unit.
Power Supply Unit
The VisuNet GXP is equipped with a robust power supply unit. To cover a broad range of applications, it is available as a DC (18-36 V DC) and an AC (115/230 V AC) version. The power supply is a standalone component and is suitable for wall mounting, but can also be installed inside the surrounding housing, or directly onto the computing unit.
Various Display Sizes
21.5” Display with Full HD Screen
The 21.5” (55 cm) display comes with a Full HD resolution (1920x1080), so it complies to the common widescreen format, guaranteeing compatibility to the aspect ratio and resolution of process images that are designed for modern widescreen operator workstations. Hardened protection glass protects the multi-touch sensor, which allows a touch-optimized user interface, even for use while wearing gloves. The robust and scratch resistant safety glass without any gaps is easily cleaned and perfectly meets the high demands for Zone 1/21 and Zone 2/22. In addition, this display version is available with an integrated RFID reader, bringing RFID technology to Zone 1/21.
Compact 19” Display
The smaller display unit of the VisuNet GXP family comes in a compact housing and is available as a 19“ (48 cm) version with a 5:4 format. It not only offers a space-saving design, but is also compatible with its predecessor product line, the VisuNet EX1. This means that users can retrofit existing installations easily via a drop in replacement, and are even able to continue using existing keyboards or barcode readers. Just like the larger 21,5" version of the display unit, the 19" model is equipped with a capacitive multi touch sensor which allows touch-optimized user interfaces.
Thin Client Solution with VisuNet RM Shell
The VisuNet GXP remote monitors are equipped with the latest generation firmware VisuNet RM Shell. It provides easy access and control of process control systems in explosion hazardous areas by using standard Ethernet networking technology. The most recent update supports the latest remote protocol versions, such as RDP 10 and VNC.
Secure and Reliable
RM Shell runs on a Microsoft® Windows® 10 IoT Enterprise operating system. The Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) offered with the new Windows version provides long-term availability of security updates, ensuring a safe and secure system at all times. The security functions of the RM Shell, like password-protected access and the definition of user roles, act as additional safeguards.
Innovative Centralized Management
In combination with the innovative software VisuNet Control Center, RM Shell is an efficient solution for a future-oriented remote management of VisuNet remote monitors and thin clients. With the centralized management functions, users are able to remotely configure, maintain, and monitor their remote monitor or thin client installation. A walk back to the plant to configure remote HMI units is no longer necessary for administrators—they can do everything from one central point.
Powerful Computer Unit
With the 2024 generation of the VisuNet GXP, the computing units are now equipped with powerful Intel® Elkhart Lake processors. PC versions of the VisuNet GXP are based on an open Microsoft® Windows® operating system, which offers improved computing power and software flexibility. This allows users to install customized software packages to visualize applications in industrial and hazardous areas.
Various Interfaces
The GXP computing unit can connect directly to a control system or peripheral devices, saving time and money on cabling. Users can choose RS-232, RS-485, or Ethernet interfaces based on their needs. Additional peripherals simplify installation, and optional fiber optic interfaces provide reliable connections over long distances. These interfaces can connect to standard IT fiber optic switches, even in Zone 1/21 areas, without needing to be "optically intrinsically safe" (Ex op is).
Firmware
Pepperl+Fuchs not only offers a variety of thin clients, but also the appropriate thin client software. The specially developed VisuNet RM Shell and VisuNet Control Center firmware are precisely tailored to the requirements of process automation. In addition to the VisuNet firmware, Pepperl+Fuchs offers thin clients with pre-installed IGEL OS or as a "ThinManager Ready" solution.
Easy Configurationwith VisuNet RM Shell
VisuNet RM Shell firmware is pre-installed and pre-configured for various control systems, allowing for quick and easy setup of BTCs and remote monitors. The latest generation is based on Microsoft® Windows® 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, offering long-term security updates. It also features integrated security mechanisms that provide reliable protection against malware and viruses.
VisuNet RM Shell enables a complete thin client solution for process industries—from BTCs in the control room to remote monitors in Zone 1/21 and Division 1.
Option for Linux UsersPre-installed IGEL OS
For users who want to use VisuNet devices with IGEL OS, Pepperl+Fuchs offers box thin clients (BTCs) and remote monitors of the VisuNet FLX and VisuNet GXP series with pre-installed IGEL OS*. IGEL OS is a platform-independent, Linux-based endpoint operating system designed for simple, intelligent, and secure access to virtual applications, desktops, and cloud workspaces.
*Licenses need to be purchased directly from IGEL.
Option for Rockwell ThinManager® UsersThinManager Ready Clients
For users implementing or already working with a Rockwell ThinManager architecture, Pepperl+Fuchs offers “ThinManager Ready” clients*. They have been specially developed, configured, and tested with Rockwell. These solutions have a BIOS that is pre-installed and ready to connect to the ThinManager server. Just like the VisuNet RM Shell and IGEL OS solutions, the ThinManager Ready options are available for the entire VisuNet HMI portfolio.
*ThinManager server hardware, software, and licenses can be purchased directly from Rockwell.
More Information
Contact Us
Do you have any questions on the VisuNet GXP, or do you want to receive more information? We are happy to help! Simply fill out the contact form and send us a message.
