Beckhoff Automation takes over Embedded-Logic
Design & More and BeDeHa

Technology consolidation embedded sector

On 1 July 2006, Beckhoff Automation GmbH, based in Verl, Germany, took over the technology companies Embedded-Logic Design & More GmbH and BeDeHa GmbH, both based in Münster, Germany.

The new Beckhoff subsidiaries specialise in Embedded PC technology and have long-standing experience in this sector. Embedded-Logic Design & More (ELDM) specialises in the development of PC motherboards. BeDeHa specialises in the distribution and adaptation of Bios software.

Hans Beckhoff, managing director of Beckhoff Automation, is pleased about this development: "Even before this acquisition, we already had a reputation as one of the technology leaders for PC-based automation. With the takeover of ELDM and BeDeHa we have further strengthened our technological basis. We are now able to offer IPCs and Embedded PCs in all performance classes with motherboards fully developed and manufactured in-house."

The two companies will remain at their current location. Further expansion is envisaged under the management of directors Kai Flatter and Wulfhard Schneider. Development capacities will be expended, and a new building will be ready next year. This expansion enables us to build on the existing successful business of the two companies, involving customised development of embedded motherboards and Bios distribution. "Both companies will continue to act independently in the market. The investments by Beckhoff in ELDM and BeDeHA will provide drive for positive company development; cooperation with existing customers and distribution channels will be reinforced", said Hans Beckhoff.

The motherboards are used in Beckhoff Industrial PCs, Panel PCs, Embedded PCs and other products. Hans Beckhoff: "We have already been developing motherboards and PC components in-house for some time. The teams from the new subsidiaries will strengthen these activities. Our own motherboard and BIOS development initiatives enable us to respond more quickly to new technologies in the PC market and to customer-specific requirements. With these motherboards "made in Westphalia/Germany" we are also well positioned in the global PC market."

Beckhoff will present recent embedded innovations such as the new Core™ Duo IPC motherboard series, which supports all typical form factors such as ATX, slot CPU, 3.5" board and PC/104, at SPS/IPC/DRIVES 2006 and for the first time also at Embedded World in February 2007 in Nuremberg.