FC9821KA
May 27, 2026

FC9821KA

The FC9821KA is a rugged, embedded factory automation computer (FA PC) developed by NEC, belonging to the FC-9821K series. Released in 1997, it is designed for high reliability and extended environmental tolerance in industrial environments. Equipped with a 166 MHz Pentium processor and a rich set of onboard I/O and expansion slots, it provides stable Windows-based operation for factory automation, process control, and machine control applications. The unit features integrated power management, remote monitoring functions, and a compact chassis suitable for cabinet or panel mounting.

Description

FC9821KA

Product Introduction

The FC9821KA is a rugged, embedded factory automation computer (FA PC) developed by NEC, belonging to the FC-9821K series. Released in 1997, it is designed for high reliability and extended environmental tolerance in industrial environments. Equipped with a 166 MHz Pentium processor and a rich set of onboard I/O and expansion slots, it provides stable Windows-based operation for factory automation, process control, and machine control applications. The unit features integrated power management, remote monitoring functions, and a compact chassis suitable for cabinet or panel mounting.

Basic Information

  • Model: FC9821KA (Model 1 / Model 2 variants)

  • Brand: NEC

  • Series: FC-9821K (FA98 factory automation series)

  • CPU: Intel Pentium 166 MHz

  • Memory: Up to 128 MB EDO RAM, ECC support

  • Storage: SCSI hard disk interface (50/68/80-pin)

  • Expansion Slots: 5 × C-Bus, 1 × C-Bus/RAS, 2 × PCI

  • Communication Ports: D-Sub 25-pin, printer port, mini D-Sub 15-pin

  • Power Supply: AC 100/110 V, 50/60 Hz, 54 W typical, max 240 W

  • Operating System: Windows 95 / Windows NT Embedded

  • Protection Class: IP20 (chassis)

  • Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C

  • Mounting: Industrial cabinet, DIN rail, or panel mount

Function and Positioning

The FC9821KA functions as a high-stability industrial controller and data processing platform for factory automation systems. It executes real-time control logic, data acquisition, and operator interface tasks while supporting seamless integration with PLCs, I/O modules, and motion control devices. Positioned as a mid-range embedded FA PC, it balances performance, environmental ruggedness, and cost-effectiveness, making it suitable for continuous operation in production lines, machine tools, and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Its remote power management and diagnostic features enhance system uptime and simplify maintenance.

Core Performance Parameters

  • Processor Performance: 166 MHz Pentium for deterministic industrial computing

  • Memory Capacity: Max 128 MB with ECC for high data integrity

  • Expansion Flexibility: Multi-slot C-Bus and PCI architecture for I/O and communication expansion

  • Industrial I/O: Onboard serial, parallel, and display ports for direct connection to peripherals

  • System Reliability: ECC memory, watchdog timer, and remote reset support

  • Environmental Resistance: Extended temperature tolerance, vibration-resistant chassis design

  • Power Management: Integrated remote on/off and automatic shutdown protection

  • Communication Capability: Support for industrial protocols via expansion cards

General Compatible Accessories

  • NEC FC-9821KA-E01 expansion modules

  • SCSI hard disk drives (industrial grade)

  • C-Bus and PCI I/O expansion cards (digital/analog, communication)

  • Industrial power supply units (AC 100/110 V compatible)

  • Shielded serial and parallel cables

  • Industrial display and touchscreen HMI units

  • DIN rail mounting brackets and cabinet hardware

  • NEC system configuration and diagnostic software

Applicable Equipment Fields

  • Factory Automation: Assembly lines, packaging machinery, automated production cells

  • Semiconductor Manufacturing: Wafer processing equipment, lithography systems, inspection machines

  • Industrial Machinery: Machine tools, textile machinery, printing and converting equipment

  • Process Industry: Water treatment, chemical processing, food and beverage production

  • Robotics and Motion Control: Robot controllers, servo system hosts

  • Building and Infrastructure: Industrial HVAC, power monitoring systems


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