Computers have always been an enticing addition to any industrial setting, whether that be a factory floor or an oil rig. Converting from analog to digital controls for greater precision and enabling machine-to-machine or Internet of Things communication can dramatically enhance a business’s operations. 

However, installing an industrial panel PC into a preexisting factory space can be highly challenging: there may not be enough space for a PC tower, monitor, and keyboard, or the workspace might be too hazardous for such delicate equipment. The solution to this issue? Build the computer directly into another system as an open frame panel PC.

What are Open Frame Panel PCs?

An open frame panel PC combines all the necessary elements of a PC and a monitor into one device, such as the display, motherboard, CPU, data storage, I/O ports, and power supply. This design combines the features of both a computer and a monitor into one small footprint. 

There’s one key difference between an open frame panel PC and a conventional all-in-one PC, however. “Open frame” refers to the fact that these PCs do not have an enclosed case. Instead, they are designed to be built directly into another device or system. This makes open frame PCs very flexible, as they can be installed into almost any machine, control cabinet, or kiosk. 

Once installed, open frame panel PCs are easy to optimize for ruggedness, with considerations for temperature fluctuations, water and humidity, dust, harsh vibrations, and more. 

Advantages of Open Frame Panel PCs

Compared to the conventional PC tower and monitor arrangement, open frame panel PCs have several noticeable advantages, such as:

Integration

Thanks to their compact and ergonomic design, open frame panel PCs are extremely easy to integrate into a preexisting structure or environment. Their small size and lack of cables connecting the PC and the monitor mean they can be installed in areas too small or cluttered for a conventional computer. They can also be customized with a range of I/O ports, which allow them to interface with older legacy equipment. 

Ease of Use

Workers on an oil rig or manufacturing line don’t have the luxury of a docile working environment; their computers need to be quick and easy to use. Open frame panel PCs implement resistive touchscreens that don’t rely on mice and keyboards and can detect inputs even while the user is wearing gloves. For areas with harsh lighting, they can be further enhanced with anti-glare filters that preserve the screen’s visibility. 

Durability

Open frame panel PCs use multiple durability-enhancing features. Most integrate fanless cooling, which reduces the number of moving parts in the PC and prevents mechanical breakdowns (along with ensuring quieter operations and lower power consumption). Their touchscreens are resistant to scratches and cracks, and they use military-grade components throughout to protect against shock and harsh vibrations. 

Customization

An open frame panel PC from an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) can be customized with various hardware and software features. You can select the processor and amount of RAM, the operating system and disk imaging, optional RFID readers and barcode scanners, I/O ports, and more. 

Interfacing

Adding an open frame panel PC enables not only man-to-machine communications but also machine-to-machine and the Internet of Things. For example, a panel PC built into an oil rig pump can automatically report to a centralized server, delivering information such as the amount of crude oil that has passed through it or whether it has experienced a mechanical breakdown. This reduces the amount of monitoring required by workers and lets them focus on other tasks. 

Open Frame Panel PCs from Cybernet Manufacturing

Implementing open frame panel PCs is the perfect way to enhance an industrial facility’s operations. Their durable and flexible designs allow them to be integrated into almost any role imaginable, delivering computer support in previously impossible areas. 

If you’re interested in adding open frame panel PCs to your company’s operations, contact the team at Cybernet Manufacturing. We’d be more than happy to explore how our industrial-grade computers can serve in such a role. Join the conversation and connect with us on this and other relevant topics – Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

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