Every industry stands to benefit from accurate, timely data capture—in the era of Industry 4.0, it’s less a matter of “if” and more “how” organizations should be using IoT technology. IoT, or the Internet of Things, helps to connect independent systems and sensors. And, in the case of ControlByWeb® relays, offering logical control at the edge. Our range of IoT relays and other data acquisition devices are flexible and easy to use, allowing you to harness edge data quickly and efficiently.

Benefits of Using ControlByWeb IoT Relays

• Integration-ready: Our relays are designed to easily integrate with larger SCADA systems and HMI interfaces; they support standard protocols like Modbus, MQTT, and HTTP, as well as an open REST API.
• Increased efficiency: By enabling local control and data processing, ControlByWeb IoT relays reduce the need for constant communication with central servers. This leads to faster response times and more efficient operations.
• Informative: Real-time data acquisition and processing enable immediate insights into industrial processes. This allows for proactive maintenance, optimized performance, and informed decision-making.
• Easy to use: Our devices feature intuitive drop-down menus where logic can be established in an if-this-then-that framework. Everything from setup to system reviews can be done through any standard web browser.
• Reliable: With local control and data processing, industrial processes are less susceptible to network disruptions. Cellular relays can also be used as a failover to Ethernet, or vice-versa, ensuring continuous operation and reducing the risk of downtime.
• Cost-effective: Edge-based solutions reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted and stored centrally, resulting in lower network and storage costs. Additionally, the ability to perform local control reduces the need for expensive centralized control systems.
• Flexible: ControlByWeb’s devices can be easily configured and reconfigured to meet the changing needs of the industrial environment. This flexibility allows for quick adaptation to new processes and requirements.

The Role of Logical Control at the Edge

Logical control at the edge refers to the ability to perform complex control and automation tasks directly at the edge of the network, where data is generated. This approach offers several key benefits.

Reduced latency. By processing data locally, edge computing minimizes the delay associated with connecting to a central server. This is crucial for applications requiring real-time responses and helps to optimize processes. One example is machine monitoring on a factory floor, where any unnoticed malfunction could cause productivity to take a serious hit.

Enhanced reliability. Edge-based IoT devices can operate independently of central systems, ensuring that local control and data processing continue in the event of network disruption or machine malfunction. This isolation makes integrating an all-in-one IoT solution easy and effective.

Improved security. Offloading data processing to an edge-enabled relay reduces the risk of a central system getting compromised. Data can be encrypted and processed locally on ControlByWeb relays, and there’s no file/operating system. We regularly work with security and government organizations and our devices have been found to be inherently secure enough for sensitive applications.

Greater scalability. Edge computing allows for the deployment of scalable solutions that grow with the needs of the application. Many of our customers add new devices and sensors, which can be independent of a central system or network.

🧩 You can always find the right fit.
“Every time I come across some harebrained idea that might work for these modules, I run it by Eric and he’s like, ‘yeah, use this module.’” ‐ Tarka Ellips, Technical Analyst, D-J Engineering

The Evolution of Industrial Data Acquisition & Control

Traditional industrial data systems relied heavily on centralized control architectures. Data from various sensors and devices would be transmitted to a central server or control room, where it would be processed and analyzed. More remote or isolated applications may have even required manual data collection, such as early water level monitoring systems.

These approaches often resulted in latency issues, increased network traffic, and higher costs associated with data transmission and storage.

With the advent of Industry 4.0, the focus has shifted towards decentralized, edge-based solutions. Edge computing involves processing data at or near the source of data generation, reducing the need for data to travel long distances to a central server. This shift not only enhances the speed and efficiency of data processing but also enables real-time decision-making and control.

💲 Big money.
The global market for industrial data systems is projected to grow from $2.41 billion to $3.40 billion by 2029, a 7.10% CAGR.¹ This growth is driven by the increasing need for real-time data analysis and decision-making in industrial sectors.

Pioneering Edge-Based Solutions

ControlByWeb has been ahead of the curve on development of edge-capable IoT relays. Our products are designed to provide seamless integration, robust performance, and broad flexibility for industrial applications.

As Industry 4.0 continues to impact the industrial landscape, logical control at the edge plays an increasingly important role. Your organization could see real benefits by embracing edge-based solutions. Connect with one of our sales engineers today to see how data acquisition and logical control at the edge could make a difference.

Test the Platform

We’re confident that you’ll find our embedded UI simple to navigate and program. Click the button below to access a live controller running here at our office in northern Utah. You can set up I/O, create logic, see the state of relays and inputs, and more.

We offer free demo units to qualified integrators and OEMs, ensuring our controllers are the perfect fit for your application. To be considered, submit a sample unit form for review. We’ll collaborate to determine the best device for your needs.