Based on the agreement, Panasonic is able to provide more complete solutions for downstream customers through collaboration with Advantech in terms of PC based intelligent controllers; for Advantech, it can be added EtherCAT servo motors to its automation equipment to enhance Industry 4.0 solutions.

Albert Huang, Vice President of Industrial Automation Group of Advantech , noted, through collaborating with Panasonic, Advantech is desirable to provide open and efficient solutions for Taiwanese electronics manufacturing and other industrial equipment suppliers.

Panasonic said, under the development of EtherCAT, Panasonic will roll out the controller collocated solution, and keep working with in cooperation with Advantech. In Taiwan, the company hope to extend EtherCAT solutions by teaming with the Advantech and Aurotek.

Zhang Yong-chang, Chairman of Aurotek, believed that the industrial automation and Industry 4.0 solutions of Advantech is not only a market trend, but also Panasonic's market direction. Under the long-term partnership of these three, the edvelopment of EtherCAT solutions will be accelerated.

The cooperation will start in Taiwan in the preliminary stage, and will continue to conduct more technical exchanges and cooperation in co-working on Industry 4.0, intelligent factory and automation equipment.