The Linux-based operating system ctrlX OS from Bosch Rexroth is gaining ground in the automation market and is now also available for embedded computer applications from congatec. The collaboration between the two companies opens up new possibilities for users of embedded and edge computing products from congatec. By using ctrlX OS they also gain access to Bosch Rexroth's extensive ecosystem.

The industry's digitalization and sustainability goals can be achieved primarily through the use of open and modular solution platforms. Bosch Rexroth therefore opened up the operating system ctrlX OS to the entire automation market at the end of 2022 and is now attracting more and more partner companies. 

“CtrlX OS is highly versatile and can be scaled according to requirements. On the basis of manufacturer-independent standards, we can now also support any design of ctrlX OS-based embedded computer platforms. Users of the open and modular solution platforms from congatec can now also benefit from this. With this important new partnership, we are sending out a further signal that openness is the only sensible way forward in the automation sector,” said Steffen Winkler, Vice President Sales Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions at Bosch Rexroth.

Congatec is a fast-growing technology company with a focus on embedded and edge computing products based on computer-on-modules. By using ctrlX OS and the associated ecosystem, users gain access to the entire solution portfolio and numerous apps. This means that they can use both ctrlX OS apps and the apps from the partner network ctrlX World. Ready-made building blocks at the hardware and software level simplify the development of even complex embedded applications including edge and cloud integration. This reduces the time to market and at the same time offers a high level of design reliability.

One of congatec's goals is to provide fully integrated and application-ready solutions for applications. These range from connecting sensors and actuators in the field to the cloud.

Dominik Reßing, CEO of congatec, said, “With Bosch Rexroth, we’ve found an effective, internationally active partner who supports the modular and open design approach of our Secure Embedded Building Blocks in a comprehensive and application-oriented manner on the software side. This makes our modular, scalable range of solutions for connected and cloud-integrated applications even more attractive. And the apps create great added value for developers – they allow faster and more efficient application development for example. This makes it easier to achieve the required speed and agility in the modern factory.”

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, more than 32,000 associates generated sales revenue of around Euro 7 billion in 2022.

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 428,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2023). According to preliminary figures, the company generated sales of Euro 91.6 billion in 2023. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology.