OnLogic Released Industrial Computers With CODESYS Support
The new Helix 521-PLC and 524-PLC integrate Intel Core Ultra processors for real-time industrial automation workloads.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Computers
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OnLogic has launched its latest industrial computer lineup, the Helix 521-PLC and Helix 524-PLC, both designed for machine control and automation. These fanless systems now feature Intel Core Ultra Series 1 and 2 processors and support for the CODESYS runtime environment.
Why it matters
By combining industrial-grade compute with specialized real-time software, these units address the demand for edge-based machine control that requires deterministic processing. This integration simplifies infrastructure by consolidating traditional PLC logic and general-purpose edge tasks into one chassis.
The systems support up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 memory across two slots and operate within a temperature range of 0 to 50°C. They feature four 2.5GbE ports, with the Helix 524-PLC providing additional PCIe Gen 5 x16 mechanical expansion capabilities.
The players
OnLogic
An industrial computer manufacturer specializing in fanless, ruggedized hardware designed for edge computing and automated machine control.
CODESYS
A widely used software suite that provides an integrated development environment for industrial controllers and real-time machine logic.
Hilscher
A developer of industrial communication technology, known for its netX chip architecture that manages fieldbus protocols.
The details
The CODESYS software environment allows users to isolate real-time control tasks from general-purpose host OS processes, such as those running on Ubuntu. To manage hardware-timed determinism—the ability of a system to guarantee a response within a specific time interval—a Hilscher netX interface offloads fieldbus processing from the main CPU. This architecture enables the systems to handle protocols like PROFINET, EtherCAT, and EtherNet/IP without taxing the core processor.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: Product launch and publication of system specifications.
The Tech Race
The transition from hardware-locked PLCs to software-defined controllers represents a move toward more flexible factory floor architectures. This release positions OnLogic to compete directly with established industrial automation vendors that have previously kept real-time control isolated from edge compute.
Engineers and automation developers can now consolidate machine control and edge data processing into a single fanless unit, reducing the need for separate hardware stacks. The systems support Ubuntu and Ubuntu RT, making them compatible with existing Linux-based industrial deployment workflows.
The takeaway
The move to integrate fieldbus-offload hardware with high-performance processors highlights the ongoing shift toward software-defined manufacturing floors. Track future product updates to see if the planned 10GbE and PoE+ M.2 modules meet specific high-bandwidth industrial sensor requirements.
Further reading
For broader trends in hardware design and edge computing, visit our Computers section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LinuxGizmos.
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