HMI
Red Lion Graphite HMI
Rugged 7 to 15 inch Red Lion HMIs with IP66 / Type 4X fronts, -20 to +60 °C rating, over 300 protocol drivers (20 at once) and up to 8 plug-in I/O and comms modules; IEC 61131 control is added with the Crimson Control module.
Key specifications
| Ingress protection | IP66 / Type 4X front (Type 4X outdoor on S models) |
|---|---|
| Temperature | -20–60 °C |
| Data / bus | over 300 drivers, up to 20 simultaneous, Ethernet 10/100, RS-232, RS-422/485 |
| Supply | 10–30 V DC |
| Display | 7–15 |
| Io slots | up to 8 plug-in modules (PID, analogue, thermocouple, RTD, strain gauge, CAN, J1939, DeviceNet, PROFIBUS DP) |
| Approvals | UL, UL hazardous locations, ATEX/UKEX and IECEx (Ex ic nA IIC T4 Gc; Ex tc IIIC), ABS marine, PESO |
| Software | Crimson 3.x |
Summarised in our own words from HMS Networks (Red Lion Controls)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
Classed hmi; IEC 61131 control needs the separate Crimson Control (GMCC) module.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with HMS Networks (Red Lion Controls). Red Lion and Graphite HMI are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Red Lion part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Kinco's lowest-cost HMI range in 4.3", 7" and 10.1", with one project portable across all three sizes.
View MASS (M2 series) →Connected-manufacturing HMI family: G2 high-end quad-core panels to 15.6" and up to 2K, GL2 cost-effective with Wi-Fi/4G, plus GH and IoT GT/GW types.
View GREEN (G2 / GL2 / GH / GT / GW) →Kinco's premium HMI line: quad-core 1.5/1.8 GHz, 1GB/8GB, dual Ethernet, metal housings and up to 15.6" Full HD, including a version with integrated buttons and E-stop.
View FUTURE (F2 series) →Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a HMI is
An HMI, or human-machine interface, is a touchscreen panel or display that lets operators monitor and control a machine. It communicates with PLCs, drives and controllers over Ethernet or serial links, showing status, alarms, trends and recipes, and sending operator commands. Screens are designed in configuration software with graphics, tags and scripts. Industrial HMIs are built for panel mounting, with front sealing typically to IP65 or higher, and come in a range of screen sizes.
When engineers choose a HMI
Choose an HMI when a machine needs a clear operator interface for settings, alarms, diagnostics and recipes beyond buttons and lamps. It improves usability and reduces panel wiring. The trade-offs are cost, configuration effort and cybersecurity for networked panels. For very simple machines, push buttons and indicator lamps may be enough; for complex plants with many machines, a PC-based SCADA system may be better.
How to specify the Red Lion Graphite HMI
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right Graphite HMI variant or an equivalent:
- Screen size and resolution
- Touch type and environment
- Communication protocols and PLC drivers
- Front panel IP rating
- Remote access and data logging
- Supply voltage
- Configuration software
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a panel without drivers for the PLC
- Ignoring visibility in bright light
- Leaving out user access levels and passwords
- Not securing remote access
Red Lion Graphite HMI: frequently asked questions
What is the Red Lion Graphite HMI?
Rugged 7 to 15 inch Red Lion HMIs with IP66 / Type 4X fronts, -20 to +60 °C rating, over 300 protocol drivers (20 at once) and up to 8 plug-in I/O and comms modules; IEC 61131 control is added with the Crimson Control module. Published series figures include temperature -20 °C, temperature 60 °C. It is made by HMS Networks (Red Lion Controls); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Red Lion Graphite HMI?
The Red Lion Graphite HMI is made by Red Lion (HMS Networks (Red Lion Controls)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with HMS Networks (Red Lion Controls); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the temperature of the Red Lion Graphite HMI?
The published series minimum temperature is -20 °C. Individual models and sizes in the Graphite HMI range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Red Lion Graphite HMI?
Yes. On published figures, Kinco MASS (M2 series) and Kinco GREEN (G2 / GL2 / GH / GT / GW) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What does an HMI do?
An HMI displays machine status, alarms and data, and lets operators enter settings and commands. It connects to PLCs and drives over a network. It replaces many push buttons and indicators with configurable screens, and often adds recipe handling, trending and remote access.
What IP rating should an HMI have?
Panel-mounted HMIs typically have IP65 or higher front protection to resist dust and water jets, while the rear is protected inside the enclosure. In washdown areas, higher ratings or stainless bezels may be required. Check the rating applies when correctly mounted with its gasket.
Further reading: How to select an hmi and remote io · Controllers and PLCs
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