Aerotech's new A3200 automation platform combines all major machine and motion control functions in a single software based package that will run on a standard PC. There's a choice of programming options for 32 axes of decentralised motion, interfaced via a high-speed IEEE-1394 Firewire network with dedicated modules for HMI, PLC (IEC-61131 compliant) and vision applications. A typical application of the new platform might involve integrating a vision module with a motion system to co-ordinate, say, a laser-cutting tool. The platform would provide all the necessary tools and features to control this process all within one system.