Edge Controller for Mobile Manipulator Robots

Advantech recently launched MIC-760, a compact fanless edge controller for mobile manipulator robots.

Advantech, a global leader in intelligent systems and edge computing solutions, proudly announced the launch of the MIC-760, a compact fanless edge controller designed to address the rapidly growing demand for Mobile Manipulator Robots (MMR).

As industries worldwide face labour shortages and rising labour costs, manufacturers and logistics operators are increasingly adopting automation technologies to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance productivity. At the same time, continuous advancements in robotics technologies, such as real-time motion control, machine vision, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), are accelerating the adoption of more intelligent and autonomous robotic systems. According to market analysis by Grand View Research, the global autonomous mobile manipulator robot market is projected to grow at a 23.9% CAGR from 2024 to 2030, reaching approximately USD 1.7 billion by 2030, highlighting strong demand for high-performance robotic control platforms.

In response to these market trends, Advantech introduces the MIC-760, a purpose-built controller to power the next generation of MMR solutions. Combining high-performance edge computing with industrial-grade reliability, the MIC-760 enables faster deployment and greater flexibility, helping customers shorten time-to-market for mobile manipulator robots across diverse real-world applications.

Optimised controller for AMR/MMR systems

Mobile manipulator robots (MMRs) rely on robust connectivity to coordinate real-time perception, motion control, and communication across multiple devices. Recognising this requirement, the MIC-760 delivers high-speed, reliable, and flexible networking capabilities that form the backbone of scalable robotic systems.

The MIC-760’s LAN and USB interfaces are validated for leading camera and LiDAR solutions, such as Intel® RealSense™, ECON, and other mainstream vision sensors, allowing easy integration of diverse perception systems. For motion control and system integration, the MIC-760 features RS-485 and CAN interfaces to connect robot arms, motor drives, encoders, reducers, PLCs, and UPS units. Its built-in EtherCAT capability ensures high-speed, deterministic communication for synchronised, real-time control in advanced MMR applications.

To further strengthen mobility and network reliability, the MIC-760 integrates seamlessly with Advantech’s industrial networking and wireless portfolio, including the EKI-2000 Series, EKI-6233BN, EWM-W165M201E, and AIW series, providing scalable robotic communication architectures. In particular, the MIC‑760 supports Wi‑Fi modules with fast‑roaming capability, ensuring stable and uninterrupted connectivity in dynamic and mobile environments.

Ubuntu 22.04-based, ROS 2-ready platform for rapid application deployment

To accelerate development and shorten time to market, the MIC-760 provides an Ubuntu 22.04–based ROS 2 framework, enabling system integrators and developers to deploy applications in as little as one day. The platform supports container-based services for flexible software management and scalability, as well as PREEMPT_RT to meet real-time control requirements.

Advantech also provides a comprehensive ROS software toolkit, including Modbus RTU/TCP ROS 2 nodes, ROS 1/ROS 2 conversion tools, and long-term technical support for system integrators and end users. The ROS 2 Humble image also includes SLAM and navigation functions, allowing developers to rapidly implement autonomous navigation and mobile manipulation capabilities.

High-performance computing with robust industrial design

The MIC-760 combines high computing performance with an industrial-grade, fanless design for MMR applications. Powered by Intel® Core™ Desktop Processors (14th/13th/12th Gen) and supporting up to 96GB of memory, the system provides sufficient processing capability for perception, AI inference, and real-time robotic workloads, while its fully fanless architecture ensures stable operation across a wide temperature range of -20°C to 60°C.

Designed for deployment in demanding industrial environments, the MIC-760 integrates essential I/O for robotic control and sensing, along with industrial-grade isolation protection to enhance system stability. Built for the realities of mobile robotics, the MIC-760 is engineered to withstand fluctuating power conditions, mechanical movement, and thermal challenges commonly encountered in AMR and MMR deployments. Support for 12-36 VDC wide-range power input, an optional USB locking accessory, and a dedicated 12 V fan output connector for thermal management ensures dependable performance and flexible system integration. To further enhance electrical reliability, the MIC-760 features Level 4 ESD protection, with 8 kV contact and 15 kV air discharge ratings, and complies with Class B EMI standards, enabling stable operation even in mobile manipulator applications where grounding cannot be guaranteed.

With the launch of the MIC-760, Advantech delivers a purpose-built MMR controller that aligns with market trends and empowers customers to rapidly implement intelligent, reliable, and scalable mobile manipulator robot solutions.

Brief specifications

MIC-760 – Compact fanless AMR/MMR controller system with 12th/13th/14th Gen Intel® Core™ i CPU Socket (LGA 1700).

• High-performance computing powered by Intel® 12th/13th/14th Gen Core™ i CPU
• Fanless design ensures reliable operation in environments up to 60°C
• Isolated DIO, CANbus and Serial ports guarantee for industrial communication
• Contact 8KV/Air 15KV IV level ESD protection , ClassB for EMI design, best choice for industrial environment
• 3 Ethernet and 4 USB3.2 (5Gbps) for Camera and Lidar connection
• Industrial WiFi design enables fast roaming at 36ms
• Compact size ensures easy installation for AMR/MMR
• Built on Ubuntu 22.04 and Advantech Edge Linux, with ROS2 package readiness, and
• ROS2 package enhances industrial automation capabilities including EtherCAT and Modbus node support.

Advantech’s MIC-760 is available now. To learn more about MIC-760, contact your local sales support team or visit our website at www.advantech.com.

Founded in 1983, Advantech is a leading provider of trusted, innovative products, services, and solutions. Advantech offers comprehensive system integration, hardware, software, customer-centric design services, embedded systems, automation products, and global logistics support.