Computers come in more forms than just desktop towers and laptops. When size is an issue or durability is needed, a rugged mini PC is often the perfect solution for industrial worksites that still require a computer solution.
What Is a Rugged Mini PC?
Rugged mini PCs, or box PCs, are small computers engineered for harsh working environments. A typical mini PC is essentially a reinforced metal box containing the computer’s processing and data storage components. It also has enough I/O ports to power the PC and allow it to interact with other devices.
Features of Rugged Mini PCs
Rugged mini PCs are designed specifically for roles where other computers would break apart and fail. Here are some features ensuring reliability and performance:
Fanless Cooling
A computer’s CPU can easily exceed 90°C (194°F) if it isn’t cooled, leading to permanent damage and, eventually, device failure. To prevent this from happening, most computers use fans to blow hot air away and cool air over the PC’s components.
However, fans are mechanically unreliable and can suck in dust, metal shavings, and other debris into the computer’s case and damage the components within. What is a rugged mini PC’s answer to this problem? They use fanless cooling solutions such as passive heatsink technology. These solutions absorb heat from the computer’s components and radiate it out into the surrounding environment. This ensures that their processors stay cool without introducing the weaknesses that come with fans.
Shock and Vibration-Proof
Working in an industrial area often means dealing with harsh vibrations that can literally shake a computer apart.
Rugged mini PCs are designed to withstand these vibrations, such as by soldering large integrated circuits directly onto the motherboard rather than relying on sockets or grid arrays. This makes it nearly impossible to shake the circuits free of the motherboard, even when operating near heavy machinery. Manufacturers will test and certify their designs to meet international standards for shock resistance, such as IEC 60068-2-27.
Temperature and Humidity Endurance
Industrial computers can face temperatures ranging from freezing to burning, and both extremes can easily damage a computer. Humidity is also a concern; high amounts of it can lead to condensation on the computer’s circuits, which can cause corrosion and electrical shorts.
Rugged mini PCs use components that have been designed, tested, and certified to operate under these conditions, with most able to handle extreme temperatures ranging from -13°F (-25°C) to 158°F (70°C) and up to 95% humidity.
Processing Power and Performance
Of course, the most important part of a computer is that it can actually compute. While small, a rugged mini PC can still feature modern CPUs, up to 64 GB of RAM, and SSDs that quickly load data and run programs. They also feature multiple specialized I/O ports that let them interact with other electronic devices and machinery. This makes it easier to integrate them into pre-existing operations.
Multiple Mounting Solutions
Many industrial roles requiring computer support, such as controlling machinery or vehicles, simply don’t have the space for a full-sized desktop tower PC. However, rugged mini PCs can fit thanks to their flexible mounting options, such as VESA mounts, DIN rails, and rack mounts. These solutions secure the computer in its workspace and keep it from getting in the way during operations.
Benefits of Rugged Mini PCs
Implementing rugged mini PCs comes with multiple upsides compared to using consumer-grade models or relying on analog methods of control and data collection, including:
Modern Computer Support for Industrial Operations
The modern industrial sector is increasingly reliant on computers for everything from data collection and analysis to machine control. Rugged mini PCs deliver this support in a small, easy-to-implement package.
For example, a manufacturer that places computers throughout its assembly line can automatically gather information on its operations rather than having employees manually take notes with pen and paper. A single PC can manage multiple machines simultaneously, consolidating several workstations into one and reducing the reliance on labor.
Better Reliability and Less Maintenance
The greatest advantage that rugged mini PCs offer compared to other options is their superior durability. A consumer-grade desktop computer on a factory floor will fall apart because of vibrations, choke on metal shavings, or require constant cleaning to remove the dust clogging its fans.
A rugged mini PC designed for this exact operating environment will have none of these issues. This saves you money on expensive replacements and reduces the amount of maintenance needed.
Ease of Installation
While computers are undeniably helpful, they can also be a challenge to deploy. This is especially true on a crowded factory floor or in the cramped interior of a commercial vehicle. A mini PC’s smaller profile and range of mounting options make finding room for it easier, letting them serve in roles that desktop or laptop PCs could not.
Power is another major consideration that mini PCs can adapt to as needed. With both standard-powered and Power-over-Ethernet models available, businesses can enjoy computer support even in areas where standard power cabling is unavailable.
Uses of Rugged Mini PCs
Thanks to their aforementioned features and benefits, rugged mini PCs are used in a wide range of roles, including:
- Assembly line automation
- Vehicle control and fleet management
- Outdoors roles
- Digital signage
- Logistics and inventory management
- Edge cybersecurity
- Fire and safety systems control
- Kitchen management
Considerations for Implementing Rugged Mini PCs
Like with any tech upgrade or change in process, there are factors to consider when adding rugged mini PCs to your workflow.
Cost
First and foremost among these considerations is expense. Purchasing new equipment is never cheap, but there are ways to reduce this cost. The best is to work with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) rather than a reseller or third-party distributor. An OEM can customize mini PCs for your specific needs, ensuring you can get the performance and capabilities you need without overspending on what you don’t.
Installation and Training
Most industrial businesses can’t afford a lengthy installation and training process. Any new technology you add to your business should be easy to integrate with your pre-existing workflows and require minimal training to familiarize yourself with. Again, working with an OEM can be helpful on this front, as they can point you to prior customer success stories to use as examples for emulating.
Legacy Compatibility
Another critical concern is ensuring device compatibility. After all, what use is a new computer if it can’t plug into your assembly line or fleet of vehicles? For this reason, industrial mini PCs also include a range of both modern and legacy I/O ports so that they can communicate with both new and older equipment.
Rugged Mini PCs from Cybernet Manufacturing
The harsh working environments of most industrial sites demand a durable, flexible computer solution. Rugged mini PCs from Cybernet Manufacturing deliver the performance you need, backed by over two decades of experience in computer design and manufacturing. Contact our team today to learn more about our industrial PC options and how they can support your business.