Simplify integration and control of multiple video devices in I/O-intensive applications with BitFlow BitBox

WOBURN, MA – May 24, 2024 – Artificial intelligence, edge computing, and Industry 5.0 are trends in machine vision that require high-density computer-controlled I/O signals for devices ranging from strobes and solenoids to actuators and photodetectors. Purchasing an I/O card was the solution until recently, but this step required additional expense, software, system complexity, and the use of a host computer slot.


BitFlow BitBox is an alternative to I/O cards. This DIN rail I/O device has 36 inputs and 36 outputs supporting 24V, TTL, LVDS, opto-isolated and open collector signaling. Simple and inexpensive to implement, BitBox is controlled by the BitFlow frame grabber, using the same API, driver and instructions. As a result, the machine manufacturer achieves significant savings while reducing space requirements and flattening the customer learning curve. Additionally, this configuration isolates noisy high-voltage signals generated by your computer, preventing data drops, video glitches, crashes, and random network errors.


With BitBox, all transmitters and receivers are placed on a rail, close to other devices, and only a small, fast 15-wire cable runs between it and the Frame Grabber. The maximum cable length is 10 meters (33 feet), providing maximum flexibility in positioning equipment on the machine. This compares favorably with a traditional I/O card, which places transmitters and receivers on a board inside the host computer, requiring cables to be run from their sources to the computer.


BitBox includes 12-pin connector blocks that can be easily added or removed, yet lock securely in place for factory-level reliability. The blocks are logically grouped by signal type and feature snap-in connectors that allow you to make a wiring harness without directly wiring the BitBox.

About BitFlow

Since 1993, BitFlow has been developing reliable and efficient Frame Grabbers for use in image processing applications. BitFlow is a leader in CoaXPress and Camera Link frame capture programs, creating the world’s fastest frame capture programs, with the highest camera/frame capture density, trigger performance and price. With thousands of boards installed worldwide in hundreds of imaging applications, BitFlow strives to leverage this knowledge and experience to provide customers with the best possible image acquisition and application development solutions. Headquartered in Woburn, Massachusetts, BitFlow has distributors and resellers around the world, including Asia, the Americas and Europe. BitFlow was acquired by Advantech in 2023.

About Advantech

Advantech’s corporate vision is to enable a smarter planet. The company is a global leader in intelligent IoT systems and embedded platforms. To address IoT, big data and artificial intelligence trends, Advantech promotes IoT hardware and software solutions with an Edge Intelligence WISE-PaaS core to help business partners and customers connect their industrial chains. Advantech also works with business partners to co-create business ecosystems that accelerate the goal of industrial intelligence.