A teach pendant for industrial robots features a built-in Web browser. But the i Pendant color graphic user-interface isn't for checking your Yahoo email. The idea is to let robot operators access corporate Web sites, electronic documentation, diagnostic information, or other equipment.

Pendant developer Fanuc Robotics America Inc. calls the patented device “the largest innovation in robot teach pendant capability in more than 10 years.” An LCD color screen is standard and a touch panel is optional. The i Pendant is provided with most Fanuc R-J3iB robot arm controllers.