Controlling Systems

Benefits of an Embedded Industrial Computer

The embedded industrial computer plays a crucial role in the fields of pharmaceutical, medical, food, service industries, and the military, to name only a few. Here’s a closer look at some of the superior advantages that embedded industrial computers have over their general desktop or workstation counterparts:

Performance efficiency

An embedded industrial computer usually only has a single function. For example, an embedded industrial computer for a traffic signal matrix has the hardware and software dedicated to the proper functioning of that particular purpose alone; hence, there is an optimization of what the product can do. At INNOVATEST, we have the opinion that machines and or other quality equipment should be operated from a controlling system that has one task only, excellent machine performance with high reliability.

Product reliability

Given that an embedded industrial computer is potentially exposed to harsh conditions, and is certainly relied upon to accomplish its task without failure, manufacturers will often add certain features such as an SSD, for fast, reliable data storage, a watchdog timer and design it for fanless operation to eliminate the risk of failure due to moving parts or overheating. Mechanical heat sinks, as applied in all INNOVATEST machines, eliminate any possibility for overheating.

Durability

Many embedded industrial computers are used directly in factories and other harsh environmental settings, which may not only expose them to harsher conditions, but also involve situations of rough handling for these electronics. Embedded industrial computers, depending on their use, are built to withstand fairly severe environments. They can be made to absorb stationary shocks or falls, remain functional even when in transfer via vehicles, and are protected from exposure to moisture and dirt by the conformal coating of the motherboard.

Customizable features

Compared to general-purpose computers, which have an array of basic functions and features that cater to most office needs but have no use in industrial equipment, an embedded industrial computer only has two main functions: the operation and data collection of industrial equipment through specialized software. With either one of these purposes in mind, nearly anything can be done with the hardware. The OEM manufacturer, like INNOVATEST, can further customize the unit to accommodate the needs of a particular industry or job by installing proprietary software.

INNOVATEST hardness testing equipment has embedded industrial computers as standard controllers on all IMPRESSIONS™ operated hardness testers.

So, can INNOVATEST IMPRESSIONS™ software run on a standard Hewlett Packard, Dell, or another A-class desktop workstation? Yes it can, we just don’t recommend it, for the above reasons.