Industrial computing is evolving fast, and the industrial PC is at the heart of it. These computers, designed to cope with extreme conditions, play a crucial role. At Syscom-Prorep, we value the importance of reliable equipment in the production environment.

The industrial PC transcends the concept of the desktop PC. It is specially designed to withstand variable temperatures, humidity, vibration and dust. This resilience is crucial to ensuring the continuity of your operations, avoiding costly downtime.

Thanks to our 30 years of experience, Syscom-Prorep offers a comprehensive range of industrial IT solutions. Whether you're looking for a compact embedded PC or a powerful fanless system, we can meet your specific requirements.

Key points to remember

  • Resistant to extreme conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration)
  • Variety of formats: embedded PCs, fanless systems, Box PCs
  • Reliable components for long service life
  • Compliance with industrial certifications (IP, MIL-STD-810)
  • Easy integration with weighing systems and other machines
  • Advanced connectivity options (USB, Ethernet, wireless)
  • High performance for massive data processing

Understanding industrial PCs: definition and key features

Industrial PCs play a crucial role in automation and control. It is designed to operate in harsh conditions, far beyond the capacity of consumer computers.

What is an industrial computer?

An industrial PC is a system designed to cope with extreme conditions. It can withstand high temperatures, intense vibrations and dusty environments. Used in factories, laboratories and production sites, they are essential for reliable operations.

Specific components for industrial PCs

Industrial PCs are equipped with robust hardware to guarantee their reliability:

  • Ruggedized industrial motherboards
  • Shock-resistant hard disks
  • Redundant power supplies
  • Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors for high performance
  • DDR4 or ECC memory for data reliability

Differences from consumer computers

Industrial PCs are distinguished from consumer PCs by :

  • Longer service life, often 5 to 7 years
  • More connection interfaces such as RS232 or RS485
  • Greater resistance to extreme temperatures
  • Specific certifications (IP54 for water and dust resistance)

These features make the industrial PC an indispensable tool for embedded systems requiring robust, reliable hardware.

Industrial PCs on the market

The industrial PC market offers a wide range of solutions to meet specific business needs. These rugged computers are divided into several categories. Each is designed to meet specific performance and working environment requirements.

Embedded PCs and compact systems

Embedded PCs are designed to be integrated into other equipment. They are resistant to shock, vibration and extreme temperatures, from -40°C to +85°C. These compact systems use processors such as Intel Atom or ARM Cortex. RAM capacities range from 2 GB to 16 GB.

Fanless and Box PC solutions

Fanless industrial PCs are ideal for dusty, vibrating environments. They minimize the risk of downtime and operate silently. Box PCs offer a modular solution. They are often equipped with Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 processors, with SSD or NVMe storage options.

Panel PCs and man-machine interfaces

Panel PCs combine a touchscreen with a human-machine interface. They are ideal for tight spaces requiring direct interaction. These operator panels are available in different screen sizes. They can be wall-mounted or mounted on a VESA arm. They support various operating systems, such as Windows 10 IoT Enterprise or Linux.

Each type of industrial PC has its own unique features. This enables companies to select the solution best suited to their specific needs. Whether for process control, monitoring or real-time data analysis, there's an industrial PC for every application.

Robustness and reliability: the assets of industrial equipment

The heart of industrial computing lies in rugged hardware. Industrial PCs are designed to withstand the harshest conditions. They ensure unwavering reliability in hostile environments. They are designed to meet the specific challenges of industrial installations.

Resistance to the elements is essential. Reinforced casings protect against dust, humidity and vibration. These computers operate between -20°C and +60°C, ensuring constant performance in extreme conditions.

Durability is a major criterion for industrial equipment. With a service life of 5 to 7 years, these systems offer a significant return on investment. The fanless design reduces the risk of breakdowns and increases energy efficiency.

Compliance with strict standards demonstrates the quality of industrial equipment. IEC certifications guarantee resistance to water and dust. MIL-STD-810 confirms robustness in the face of shock and vibration. These rigorous standards make industrial computing a safe option for the most demanding environments.

Industrial automation solutions with industrial PC

Industrial automation increasingly relies on high-performance industrial PCs. These robust devices feature advanced capabilities to improve production processes.

Production process control

Industrial PCs provide precise digital control of operations. Equipped with powerful processors, they perform complex calculations in real time. Their shock- and vibration-resistant design guarantees reliable operation in the toughest conditions.

Industrial automation with industrial PC

Integration of monitoring systems

The integration of monitoring systems is made easy thanks to the multiple interfaces of industrial PCs. They communicate easily with existing equipment via standard protocols. User-friendly graphic interfaces facilitate process supervision.

Real-time data collection and analysis

Real-time data collection and analysis are crucial for Industry 4.0. Industrial PCs have the processing capacity to handle large quantities of information. Their flexible architecture enables the integration of artificial intelligence applications to optimize production.

Modern industrial PLC solutions, such as ctrlX AUTOMATION, offer an open, scalable platform. They facilitate the deployment of customized applications to meet the specific needs of each company.

Essential standards and certifications

Industrial PCs must meet rigorous standards to ensure their reliability under harsh conditions. These certifications guarantee equipment quality and safety.

European and international certifications

ISO 27001 is a globally recognized standard for securing IT data. It assesses the risks associated with the confidentiality and integrity of information. Compatible with ISO 9001 and 14001, it follows the same HLS structure. UL certification confirms that industrial computers meet the highest safety standards, particularly against electric shock and fire.

IP protection standards

IP protection ratings define the resistance of industrial PCs to the ingress of solids and liquids. An IP65 fully protects against dust and water jets, essential in certain industrial environments.

Sector-specific standards

e-Mark certification guarantees compliance with European standards for on-board electronic equipment. It guarantees reliability, safety and electromagnetic compatibility. Integral System's fanless PCs, like the VTC 6231, are e-Mark certified to withstand vibrations and disturbances in the automotive sector.

Connectivity and interfaces for modern industry

The evolution of industrial computing requires advanced connectivity solutions. Industrial PCs offer a variety of interfaces to meet the requirements of Industry 4.0. They integrate innovative technologies such as LoRa, GNSS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These technologies promote efficient communication between different industrial components.

Human-machine interface in modern industry

Common hardware interfaces include PCI bus, USB and Firewire. Ethernet is essential for linking network devices. Standardized interfaces such as Profinet and EtherCat are preferred for their compatibility and efficiency in the industrial environment.

The human-machine interface is becoming crucial in modern industry. Solutions such as PRO-V-PAD STEEL IP69K and IP65 offer outstanding robustness, withstanding extreme conditions. The PRO-V-PANEL, compatible with various operating systems, offers the flexibility needed for a wide range of industrial applications.

Modular solutions enable companies to customize their connectivity systems. Modern industrial PCs offer advanced functionalities:

  • Four additional interfaces compared with previous models
  • Integrated UPS for data storage
  • DisplayPort, dual Ethernet adapters, USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports

These features guarantee optimum connectivity for control and monitoring systems. They facilitate integration with a wide range of industrial sensors and devices.

Performance and modularity of industrial systems

Modern industrial systems combine performance and modularity. They meet the requirements of industrial IT. These solutions offer the flexibility and scalability essential to embedded systems.

Hardware configuration options

Industrial PCs come in a wide variety of configurations:

  • Intel® Core™ i3 to i7 processors with up to 4 cores and 3.6 GHz
  • RAM from 8 to 32 GB
  • HDD or SSD storage from 500 GB, expandable
  • High-performance NVIDIA graphics cards

Scalability and maintenance

Modular design facilitates upgrades and maintenance:

  • Two PCIe slots for flexible configuration
  • Available PCIe modules: 2x GbE, 2x USB 3.0, 2x RS232, 1x CP-Link 4
  • Vertical or horizontal mounting
  • Average life of 7 years

Industrial storage solutions

Robust storage options include :

  • 40 GB M.2 SSD with 3D flash technology
  • RAID mode support with addition of a second M.2 SSD
  • Compatible with Windows 7, Windows 10 and the Azure cloud platform

These high-performance, modular industrial systems are perfectly suited to the needs of Industry 4.0. They offer reliability and flexibility for a wide range of applications.

Specific applications and sectors

Industrial PCs are essential in a multitude of fields. They play a key role in industrial automation, affecting sectors as diverse as manufacturing and food processing. Thanks to their versatility, these devices are perfectly suited to the unique requirements of each industry.

In the manufacturing sector, these PCs are responsible for directing production processes. They control machine tools and manage inventories in real time. Their ability to withstand harsh conditions ensures uninterrupted operation.

Industrial automation in the manufacturing sector

The energy industry uses them to monitor and optimize its installations. In the transport sector, they are responsible for managing signaling and traffic control systems. The agri-food sector uses them to guarantee product traceability and quality control.

Integrated into IoT and Big Data solutions, these PCs collect and analyze data to improve production processes. Their ability to operate in extreme conditions, from -15°C to +45°C, makes them indispensable for outdoor applications.

Demand for these technologies is growing rapidly in Asia-Pacific and North America. Companies are adopting them to remain competitive in the global marketplace. Industrial automation and digital control are becoming pillars of Industry 4.0.

Technical support and integration services

Optimal use of an industrial PC requires expert support. Syscom-Prorep offers tailor-made services to meet the specific needs of each customer.

Custom assembly

Syscom-Prorep assembles thousands of industrial computers in France. Their expertise enables them to create configurations adapted to each project:

  • Compatible with ATX and Micro ATX motherboards
  • Multiple storage options and expansion slots
  • Advanced cooling system
  • Modular design for easy access

Preventive maintenance

To guarantee the reliability of industrial PCs, Syscom-Prorep offers :

  • Regular inspections
  • Preventive replacement of components
  • Software updates

Personalized customer support

With 70 employees, 80% of whom are engineers, Syscom-Prorep offers high-quality technical support. Their experienced team ensures :

  • Fast, efficient assistance
  • Customized training
  • Personalized project follow-up

With these comprehensive services, Syscom-Prorep guarantees the performance and longevity of your industrial computers. Our technical expertise and customer-centric approach make us the partner of choice for your industrial projects.

Conclusion

Industrial PCs are essential for modern automation. They offer increased reliability, with a higher mean time between failures (MTBF). This significantly reduces downtime. Their ability to operate in extreme conditions, from -40°C to +70°C, makes them indispensable for a wide range of industrial sectors.

Energy efficiency is a major advantage of industrial PCs. They deliver energy savings of up to 66% compared with conventional PCs. This performance, coupled with an extended lifespan of 6 to 7 years, reduces maintenance and operating costs. For a fleet of 100 PCs, savings can reach €4,300 per year.

Syscom-Prorep, with 30 years' experience, is a trusted partner for industrial electronics and IT solutions. Whether integrating monitoring systems, collecting real-time data or optimizing production processes, industrial PCs are a strategic investment. Explore the possibilities offered by these robust, high-performance solutions to propel your industry into the future.

FAQ

What is an industrial PC?

An industrial PC is a computer designed to operate in demanding industrial environments. It is distinguished by its robustness, reliability and ability to withstand extreme conditions. These conditions include dust, vibration, high temperatures and humidity. Used for automation, process control and data collection, these computers are essential in a wide range of industrial sectors.

What are the main differences between an industrial PC and a consumer computer?

The main differences lie in ruggedness, durability and reliability. Industrial PCs are designed to operate 24/7 in harsh conditions. They feature reinforced housings, industrial-grade components and improved cooling systems. They also offer greater flexibility in terms of interfaces and connectivity, tailored to the specific needs of industry.

What different types of industrial PC are available?

Several types of industrial PC are available, including embedded PCs, compact systems, fanless solutions, box PCs, panel PCs and man-machine interfaces. Each type is designed to meet specific needs in terms of size, performance and application in the industrial environment.

What does the protection index (IP) mean for an industrial PC?

The protection index (IP) is an international standard that defines a device's level of protection against the ingress of solids and liquids. For industrial PCs, a high IP rating indicates greater resistance to dust, water and other potentially hazardous elements in an industrial environment.

How do industrial PCs contribute to industrial automation?

Industrial PCs play a crucial role in industrial automation. They enable precise control of production processes, efficient integration of monitoring systems, and real-time data collection and analysis. They act as a central brain to coordinate various operations and optimize productivity.

What connectivity options are available in modern industrial PCs?

Modern industrial PCs offer a wide range of connectivity options. These include technologies such as LoRa, GNSS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, as well as serial ports, Ethernet, USB and industry-specific interfaces. This variety enables seamless integration with other industrial systems, and facilitates real-time data collection and processing.

How important is modularity in industrial PCs?

The modularity of industrial PCs allows great flexibility in hardware configuration. This enables companies to adapt their systems to their specific needs. It also facilitates upgrading and maintenance, prolonging the useful life of the system and reducing long-term costs.

What are the advantages of industrial storage solutions?

Industrial storage solutions offer greater robustness and reliability than consumer solutions. They are designed to withstand vibration, shock and extreme temperatures. They offer high performance and long life, essential in demanding industrial environments.

Why is technical support important for industrial PCs?

Technical support is crucial for industrial PCs. It guarantees optimal operation and rapid problem resolution. Good technical support includes customized assembly services, preventive maintenance and personalized customer support. This helps maximize system life and reliability, reducing costly downtime.

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