For automation engineers, every added protocol translator, middleware package, or custom driver is another risk to schedule, cost, and FAT success. Getting leak testers to communicate with plant-level systems has historically been one of the more frustrating integration tasks, especially when dealing with MES/QMS requirements. Every workaround adds engineering hours – and those hours are hard to reclaim when you’re already managing multiple customers and deadlines.

Native Protocol Support for Seamless Connectivity

Astra Dash was designed to integrate directly. It supports native industrial protocols including Ethernet/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP, Profinet, Profibus, DeviceNet, and REST API, as well as legacy RS-232. That means automation houses can connect Astra Dash into the same networks that already run their lines – without extra converters or middleware. For IT/OT integration, results can be logged automatically into MES/QMS systems via REST API or Windows share, eliminating paper logging and reducing compliance headaches.

Flexible I/O Designed for Automation Workflows

On the hardware side, Astra Dash provides both global I/O and channel-specific I/O, with 16 inputs and 16 outputs per channel plus a global set for system-level control. This gives automation engineers flexibility: tie channel-level outputs to reject bins or clamps, while reserving global I/O for conveyors or interlocks. Because the I/O is fully configurable in the HMI, there’s no need for custom code to handle basic signals – setup is faster and easier. 

Diagnostics that Simplify Troubleshooting at FAT

The integration advantages go beyond connectivity. Astra Dash’s 22” touchscreen HMI provides intuitive widgets and diagnostics, so engineers can see communication status, signal behavior, and test data in real time. When troubleshooting integration at FAT, you don’t have to guess whether a reject signal fired or if a QMS handoff occurred – the interface confirms it. This reduces back-and-forth between controls and IT teams, speeding up validation and reducing the risk of costly FAT delays. Learn more about Astra Dash.

Less Engineering Time, Faster Sign-Off

For project managers, the benefit is clear: less engineering time spent on communication workarounds, faster customer sign-off, and smoother deployment across multiple projects. For automation engineers, it means fewer integration headaches and a platform that’s ready to “plug and play” into almost any system. 

Need Expert Guidance? 

If you need immediate assistance with an application or project don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.  Click here to email us or call us at +1-281-671-2000.

Let us know how we can help!