Data and flow control is a critical issue for train stations, as it impacts traffic efficiency and passenger convenience. Moxa's IA241 embedded computer has been chosen by a well-known company in South Africa for transportation control at many train stations.

A wireless 3G data card was installed in the IA241's PCMCIA slot to integrate it with existing systems. Since the IA241 offers four serial ports, each of which support RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, a counting sensor was easily connected. The sensor was placed at the turnstiles and was used to track the number of passengers entering the facility. Data from the sensors is instantly transmitted to the control center, so system administrators can manage passenger traffic at the station.

With a PCMCIA slot that makes wireless communication possible, the IA241 is a particularly ideal solution for applications or environments where wired communication is costly or inconvenient. Due to its low power consumption, the IA241 also generates less heat than other controllers and IPCs, making it easier for users to establish a whole system.

Using the IA241 brings the following benefits for this type of application:

• Longer MTBF since there is no fan or hard drive
• Wireless operation using PCMCIA slot
• Versatile device connections with RS-232/422/485 serial ports
• Low-power consumption for reliable and continuous operation