Compared to the UniPi 1.1, which utilize GPIO and I2C as I/O modules, the Neuron communicates with up to three microprocessors connected by a high-speed data bus. Want to know more? Check our detailed comparison!
Axon product line features the same anodized aluminium chassis as on the Neuron line, but in black colour for easy distinction between both product lines. The major difference is in the computing module - Axons are powered by a new industrial computer featuring 1.2GHz Allwinner H5 quad-core ARM CPU and 8GB eMMC onboard memory. Axons thus do not require memory cards as storage, improving their reliability during frequent rewrites. The Axon line also features enhanced functionality due to the newly introduced RS232 serial line, wider operating temperature range and other improvements. The comprehensible comparison can be found on this link.
With the UniPi 1.1, the Raspberry Pi is included only with basic and complete sets. The basic board is supplied without the computer. All Neuron units have Raspberry Pi included by default.
The Neuron product line uses the SD card to store image files of all software platforms. It is thus impossible to load software into Neurons without the SD. Currently, we are developing a new solution not requiring the card.
Axon is compatible with most software platforms supported by Neuron products. For the list of supported solutions, please visit this link.
Axon product line is intended primarily for customers who do not wish to base their systems on the Raspberry Pi computer. Axon thus represents rather a variant of Neuron than its replacement
The module was phased out of production and is no longer available. We replaced the module with the Neuron 500 line, consisting of M523, L523 and L533 models. Alternatively, you can use the xS51 extension module, featuring 4 analogue I/Os.
UniPi 1.1/1.1 Lite and UniPi Neuron controllers are delivered without software. Prior to their use, it is thus necessary to manually install it. Customers can choose from a wide variety of supported solutions ranging from professional platforms to open-source software. Install the software according to its installation manual.
UniPi Axon controllers are by default delivered with pre-installed Mervis software. The software can be however manually re-flashed and replaced by any other supported software. Re-flashing guide can be found in Axon manual delivered with each controller.
The license is not required to run Mervis; the Mervis IDE programming interface can be downloaded from downloads.unipi.technology and used freely along with our products. The license is required only for connection to Mervis proxy server and for using the Mervis DB database. The database is not mandatory for using Mervis but represents one of the best tools available for data monitoring, storage and archiving for later evaluation.
On the UniPi 1.1 and 1.1 Lite, the license request is available only as part of the Complete set.
All models of UniPi Neuron and UniPi Axon are then delivered with a licence request for each controller purchased.
Without a license, the CODESYS will be functional only for two hours. When the time runs out, the systém automatically locks down and its functionality can be restored only by purchasing the license. During these two hours, the CODESYS is however fully functional and you can test the systém thoroughly.
For the EVOK platform install, you can use either Raspbian Jessie or Raspbian Stretch image, or our UniPian image. Regarding Mervis and CODESYS, it is possible to use only the UniPian, as it contains custom low-level applications, which provide the system with a fast-control environment required.
Don‘t worry. Besides a brief description of possible solutions, we prepared a short software guide to help you with choosing the ideal software for you.
Neuron firmware is provided as part of our image files. When the latest UniPian is booted, the latest version of firmware is automatically flashed into the unit. If you need to update the firmware manually, you need to use our firmware update tool, requiring a USB-to-RS485 converter.
The answer depends on the particular software platform used. With EVOK, it is possible to use Raspberry Jessie or Raspberry Strech in addition to the default UniPian. With CODESYS or Mervis however, it is necessary to use our UniPian image, as it contains several special low-level applications creating a control interface needed by said platforms.
We are ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified. All our products are compliant with the CE certificate and following domestic standards
We are also compliant with following directives issued by the Czech Republic government and directives of the European Parliament and Council, including all amendments.