OnLogic’s Helix 520 Series
The world of computing is constantly evolving and advancing, and OnLogic is at the forefront of these innovations with their latest creation: the Helix. This state-of-the-art, edge AI computing solution is designed to meet the ever-growing needs of businesses and organizations in the digital age.
The Helix is a powerful and versatile system that offers unparalleled scalability, allowing it to adapt to the changing demands of AI computing. Its compact design and rugged construction make it ideal for use in a variety of environments, from industrial settings to outdoor installations. But what really sets the Helix apart is its ability to bring advanced AI capabilities to the edge, making it possible to process data and make critical decisions in real-time.
With the Helix, OnLogic is empowering businesses and organizations to take control of their data and harness the power of AI at the edge. This means that the Helix can handle complex tasks and make intelligent decisions without the need for a constant internet connection, saving both time and resources.
One of the key features of the Helix is its modular design, which allows for easy customization and scalability. This means that as your computing needs grow, the Helix can grow with you, eliminating the need for costly hardware upgrades. This modular approach also makes maintenance and upgrades a breeze, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
🖥️ What is the Helix 520 Series?
The Helix 520 Series is a new line of industrial PCs created by OnLogic, built specifically for edge computing with artificial intelligence (AI) in mind. These computers are small, rugged, and powerful enough to handle complex tasks like machine vision, robotics, and smart factory operations.
At the heart of the Helix 520 is the Intel Core Ultra processor, which includes a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU)—a special chip designed to make AI calculations fast and efficient, right at the edge of your network.
🚀 Why Edge AI Matters
Edge AI means running AI applications locally, on devices close to where data is collected. This avoids the delays and privacy issues that come with sending data to the cloud. For example:
- In a factory, cameras can spot defects immediately without waiting for cloud approval.
- In a warehouse, autonomous robots can react in real-time.
- In a smart building, energy systems adjust automatically based on real-time conditions.
That’s exactly what the Helix 520 Series is built for.
🧠 Key Features of the Helix 520
1. Scalable AI Performance
You can choose from several AI hardware options depending on your needs:
- Use the built-in Intel NPU for basic tasks
- Add Hailo AI modules for lightweight inference
- Install NVIDIA GPUs for heavy-duty AI processing
This modular approach means your system grows with your needs.
2. Compact and Rugged Design
Designed for tough environments, Helix 520 can withstand:
- Temperatures from 0 to 50°C
- Dust and vibration in industrial settings
- Wall mounting, DIN rail installation, or custom racks
3. Plenty of I/O and Expansion
It includes modern and legacy ports, such as:
- USB-C and Thunderbolt
- Ethernet ports (up to 10 GbE)
- Optional PoE (Power over Ethernet) for devices like cameras
- Hot-swappable drive bays and dual ModBay modules for expansion
4. Remote Management Built-In
Thanks to Intel vPro technology, IT teams can manage the devices remotely—great for locations where sending a technician is costly or impractical.
⚙️ Ideal Use Cases
The Helix 520 Series is perfect for:
- Machine Vision: High-speed image analysis on production lines
- Robotics: Real-time navigation, object detection, and obstacle avoidance
- Predictive Maintenance: Using sensors and AI to prevent equipment failure
- Smart Infrastructure: Monitor traffic, weather, or utilities in real time
🔍 Why It’s Different
Other edge computers either lack AI acceleration or aren’t built for industrial settings. Helix 520 is different because:
- It’s AI-ready out of the box
- It’s modular and upgradable
- It works reliably in harsh environments
This makes it a future-proof investment for businesses embracing Industry 4.0.
📝 What Experts Say
Hunter Golden, Senior Product Manager at OnLogic, says the Helix 520 offers a level of flexibility and power rarely seen in edge devices. It gives businesses the freedom to choose the right level of AI performance while maintaining long-term reliability.
Intel also supports the launch, highlighting how the Core Ultra processors are optimized for modern AI workloads.
📦 Technical Specs Snapshot
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra with integrated NPU
- AI Modules: Hailo, NVIDIA (optional)
- Ports: USB-C, Thunderbolt, up to 10 Gb Ethernet
- Power: Optional PoE, wide voltage input
- Temperature Range: 0–50°C
- Form Factor: Compact, fanless chassis with wall or DIN mounting
✅ Final Thoughts
The Helix 520 Series by OnLogic is a smart choice for industries that want to bring AI to the edge. Whether you’re running a smart factory, deploying autonomous robots, or upgrading infrastructure, these PCs offer the power, reliability, and flexibility you need.
With scalable performance, rugged design, and modern AI capabilities, Helix 520 is ready for the challenges of 2025 and beyond.
