Intel Modernizes AMHS White Paper

At Intel, Automated Material Handling System (AMHS) manages and controls the movement of silicon wafers across hundreds of process steps in the fab. Industrial PCs act as the brain for various AMHS systems and components. However, as with any control system in place over a long time, problems updating and upgrading industrial PC hardware and software began to appear.

Intel determined that a refresh and upgrade of the AMHS system was needed not only to maintain operations but also to bring the system into the era of Industry 4.0. A virtualized technology platform built on the newest generation of Intel® technology-based industrial PCs accomplished both goals—and optimized dollars. By adopting a virtualized framework, Intel unleashed significant gains, including improved agility and flexibility, superior reliability, better data recovery, and a higher level of sustainability.