System architectures based on inflexible ‘everything-in-one’ ASICs and ASSPs are slowing the pace of redesigns. Instead of designing and deploying a new ASIC or ASSP every time new functionality is required, functionality can be partitioned into firmware and hardware components. It’s relatively easy to reuse or ‘mix and match’ firmware and hardware components and tailor solutions to specific applications, especially if the architecture is standards-based. To simplify system development and get to market faster, the Intel® industrial control reference design facilitates the migration to a flexible modular architecture. It’s based on an easy-to use platform, comprising hardware and software components from industrial market leaders.