The B&R 5AP981.1505-01 is a high-end industrial Panel PC engineered for advanced machine control, human-machine interface (HMI), and edge computing applications within demanding automation environments. As part of B&R Automation’s (a member of the ABB Group) APC (Automation Panel Computer) series, this 15.6-inch all-in-one system integrates a powerful Intel Core i7 processor, solid-state storage, and a full HD projective capacitive touchscreen into a rugged, fanless housing designed for continuous operation on the factory floor. The 5AP981.1505-01 transcends traditional HMI functionality by serving as a unified platform for running real-time control logic (via Automation Studio), visualization, data logging, and even third-party analytics—enabling true convergence of IT and OT.
Designed for seamless integration into B&R’s ecosystem, the 5AP981.1505-01 natively supports real-time communication protocols such as POWERLINK and open standards like OPC UA over TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking), ensuring deterministic performance in synchronized motion or robotics applications. Its IP65-rated front panel provides robust protection against dust, coolant splashes, and high-pressure cleaning, making it suitable for food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and metalworking industries. With Windows 10 IoT Enterprise pre-installed, the B&R 5AP981.1505-01 offers long-term software support, enterprise-grade security, and compatibility with modern development tools—ensuring scalability and future-proofing for smart manufacturing initiatives.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter Name | Parameter Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | 5AP981.1505-01 |
| Manufacturer | B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group) |
| Product Type | Industrial Panel PC / Embedded Automation Computer |
| Display Size | 15.6 inches (diagonal) |
| Display Resolution | 1920 × 1080 (Full HD) |
| Touch Technology | Projective capacitive multi-touch (10-point) |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-8665U (4 cores, up to 4.8 GHz) |
| Memory | 16 GB DDR4 RAM (soldered) |
| Storage | 512 GB M.2 NVMe SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 64-bit |
| Front Protection Rating | IP65 (when correctly installed) |
| Communication Interfaces | 2 × Gigabit Ethernet (1 × POWERLINK capable), 2 × USB 3.1, 1 × RS-232/485, DisplayPort |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC ±10% (with optional UPS module support) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +50°C (extended range with derating) |
| Mounting | Panel mount, VESA 100×100 mm compatible |
| Certifications | CE, UL, cUL, KC, EAC, RoHS |
Main Features and Advantages
Unified control and visualization on a single platform: The B&R 5AP981.1505-01 eliminates the need for separate PLC and HMI hardware by running B&R’s Automation Runtime directly on the panel. This allows complex control tasks—including CNC, robotics, or vision-guided motion—to be executed locally while simultaneously displaying intuitive operator interfaces. The integration reduces wiring, cabinet space, and engineering effort, while improving system responsiveness through zero-latency data exchange between control and visualization layers.
Industrial-grade durability with modern user experience: Unlike commercial tablets or PCs, the 5AP981.1505-01 features a fully sealed, fanless aluminum housing that withstands vibration, electrical noise, and frequent washdowns. Its projective capacitive touchscreen supports multi-gesture navigation (pinch-to-zoom, swipe) and works reliably with wet hands or gloves—enhancing usability in production environments. The anti-reflective, high-brightness display ensures excellent readability under variable lighting, from dim warehouses to sunlit loading docks.
Advanced connectivity for Industry 4.0: The B&R 5AP981.1505-01 is built for the connected factory. Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports enable one connection to the real-time POWERLINK network and another to the plant IT infrastructure for cloud telemetry or MES integration. Native support for OPC UA over TSN ensures secure, time-synchronized data exchange with higher-level systems. Optional modules can add CANopen, PROFINET, or EtherCAT interfaces, while the M.2 SSD and ample RAM allow local execution of AI-based quality inspection or predictive maintenance algorithms at the edge.
Application Field
The B&R 5AP981.1505-01 is ideally suited for high-mix, high-precision manufacturing where performance, integration, and reliability are critical. In packaging machinery, it coordinates servo-driven fillers, cappers, and labelers in real time while providing operators with dynamic recipe management and OEE dashboards—all from a single unit mounted directly on the machine frame. Its IP65 front withstands aerosolized cleaning agents used in dairy or beverage lines, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards without compromising electronics.
In semiconductor and electronics assembly, the 5AP981.1505-01’s low electromagnetic emissions and high computational power make it suitable for cleanroom environments where it controls pick-and-place robots and vision alignment systems. The fast scan cycle and deterministic communication via POWERLINK ensure micron-level synchronization across multiple axes. Similarly, in test and measurement rigs for automotive components, the 5AP981.1505-01 logs high-frequency sensor data, runs pass/fail algorithms, and generates traceable reports—reducing reliance on external PCs.
Renewable energy and mobile machinery also benefit from its ruggedness. Installed in wind turbine nacelles or construction equipment cabins, the 5AP981.1505-01 operates reliably despite wide temperature swings and constant vibration. When paired with B&R’s mapp Technology software components, it enables remote diagnostics, energy optimization, and firmware updates over cellular networks. Across these diverse sectors, the 5AP981.1505-01 delivers a scalable, secure, and intelligent foundation for next-generation automation—proving that the line between controller and terminal has truly blurred.
Related Products
5AP922.1005-01: 10.1″ compact version of the same series—ideal for space-limited panels
5AP981.1505-00: Functionally similar model but with resistive touch instead of capacitive
5AP981.1515-01: Higher-spec variant with Intel Core i9 and 32 GB RAM for data-intensive edge AI
4PPC900.1501-20B: Legacy B&R Power Panel PC—5AP981.1505-01 offers superior CPU and modern OS
X20CP1585: B&R’s standalone CPU module—often used when 5AP981.1505-01’s integrated control isn’t required
5AC0100.00-000: UPS backup module that pairs with 5AP981.1505-01 for safe shutdown during power loss
5EC0100.00-000: Expansion chassis allowing additional I/O or communication cards to extend 5AP981.1505-01’s capabilities
Installation and Maintenance
Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the B&R 5AP981.1505-01, verify that the panel cutout matches the specified dimensions (typically 385.5 × 253.5 mm) and that adequate clearance exists behind the panel for connectors and heat dissipation. Ensure the 24 VDC power supply is stable and includes surge protection. Ground the unit using the dedicated grounding screw to minimize EMI interference, especially in environments with VFDs or welding equipment. Use shielded Ethernet cables with 360° shielding termination to maintain signal integrity for POWERLINK communication.
Maintenance recommendations: The 5AP981.1505-01 requires minimal routine maintenance due to its fanless, solid-state design. Periodically clean the touchscreen with a microfiber cloth and approved screen cleaner to maintain optical clarity and touch sensitivity. Monitor system health via B&R’s DiagView tool or Windows Performance Monitor to track CPU load, disk wear, and temperature trends. Although the SSD is rated for industrial use, enable TRIM support in Windows and avoid excessive write cycles from unoptimized logging applications. Keep a system image backup and apply firmware/OS updates during scheduled downtimes to maintain cybersecurity and compatibility with evolving automation standards.
