stepHMI

Step HMI Description

Step HMI offers a modern and cost-effective solution for simple automation tasks — a control system based on the ESP32-P4 microcontroller that combines performance, flexibility, and visualization in a single device. This system is an ideal alternative to traditional PLC + HMI combinations, significantly reducing costs and simplifying installation.The device integrates a touchscreen display that enables visualization and parameter configuration directly on the device. With support for CAN, RS485, Ethernet, and WiFi communication interfaces, it is ready for integration into a wide range of industrial applications. Although the device does not include built-in digital or analog inputs and outputs, it offers high flexibility through external I/O expansion cards, which can be connected similarly to conventional PLC systems. This ensures maximum modularity without compromise.


Support open-source Graphics Library-LVGL
LVGL (Light and Versatile Graphics Library) is a powerful graphics library that enables the creation of advanced visual interfaces on various hardware platforms. It supports a wide range of features, including transition effects, widgets, custom component creation, touchscreen support, and dynamic screen resolution adjustment.

Design and build UIs with ease with SquareLine Studio
This tool allows you to intuitively design the interface using drag-and-drop widgets and then export code that can be directly used in an embedded application. It speeds up the creation of visualizations and enables quick modifications without programming.

Features

Processing Unit
  • 32-bit RISC-V dual-core processor up to 360 MHz
  • 32-bit RISC-V single-core processor up to 40 MHz for LP system
  • 128 KB HP ROM
  • 16 KB LP ROM
  • 768 KB HP L2MEM
  • 32 KB LP SRAM
  • 8 KB system SPM (Scratchpad Memory)

Memory Architecture
  • 768 KB RAM
  • 32 MB PSRAM
  • 16MB SPI FLASH
  • 64 MB I2C EEPROM - (for project settings)
  • 256 MB I2C EEPROM - (for user retain data)
  • SD CARD up to 32GB

Wireless Connectivity
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n)
  • Bluetooth 5 (Low Energy + Mesh)
  • IEEE 802.15.4-2015 protocol
    - OQPSK PHY in 2.4 GHz band
    - Data rate: 250 Kbps
    - Thread 1.3
    - Zigbee 3.0

Support for Industrial Communication Buses

RS-485 Transceiver:
Communication speed up to 16 Mbps
Operating voltage: 3.3 V or 5 V
Half-duplex transmission mode
Built-in EMI and ESD protection
Compact SOP-8 package, suitable for SMT assembly

CAN Transceiver:
Data rate > 1 Mbps
High noise immunity and minimal electromagnetic emission (EME)

Ethernet Transceiver:
Protocol support: TCP, UDP, IPv4, ICMP, ARP, IGMP, PPPoE
Data transfer rate up to 100 Mbps
Integrated 32 KB packet buffer
Communication with the MCU via SPI interface
Operating voltage 3.3 V, 5 V tolerant I/O

Power Supply and Mounting Options
  • Operating voltage: 8 - 24 V DC
  • IEEE 802.3 PoE support
    Input: 37-57VAC
  • Integrated reverse polarity protection
  • Mounting options: DIN rail, wall, or panel installation

Graphical Interface and Visualization

The device supports:
LVGL (Light and Versatile Graphics Library) – a powerful GUI framework for creating graphical user interfaces
SquareLine Studio – a visual editor for designing GUIs compatible with LVGL
Support for custom libraries for advanced visualization and interaction

I/O Expansion

For use cases requiring digital or analog I/O, the system can be extended via distributed I/O modules, operating similarly
to those used in PLC systems. This enables flexible adaptation of the control unit to specific application needs

Display unit

TFT LCD display with a resolution od 800x480 pixels, equipped with capacitive touch panel (CTP) that provides higj accuracy and smooth touch control. The display  is designed for use in modern devices where a combination of high image quality and intuitive touch operation is essential. 

Key features: 
Resolution 800x480 pixels
Display technology: IPS (In-Plane Switching) providing wide viewing angles (80° from all directions)
Brightnes: 450 cd/m²
Interface: 24-bit RGB for high-resolution color transmission 

Applications segment

Step HMI is designed for versatile use in industrial and automation environments. Thanks to its flexibility and performance, it is suitable for applications ranging from simple control tasks to complex system integration. Built-in communication interfaces, modular expansions, and intuitive visualization capabilities enable easy deployment in the following areas:
Control of simple machines and production lines
An efficient user interface for operating and monitoring small machines or semi-automated production cells.
Control of frequency inverters for drives
Direct control and parameter setting of frequency inverters for motor and drive system management.
Monitoring and data acquisition
Collection, recording, and visualization of process values, system statuses, and diagnostic data in real time.
IoT and smart applications (BMS, HVAC, SCADA)
Integration into building management systems, heating and cooling control, or industrial SCADA networks via standard industrial communication protocols.

Hardware Overview