Rockwell Automation has helped the chip-maker Intel to develop a family of network processors specifically for industrial automation applications. The new XP465 processors are designed to replace the proprietary technologies that automation suppliers have been using to achieve the performance levels needed for manufacturing environments.

The new chips, designed by Intel with considerable input from Rockwell, will make it easier for information to flow between factory and office environments. Rockwell plans to incorporate the processors in its next generation of communications products.