A wide range of embedded box PCs for professional applications is available today. The needs of industrial customers are very diverse, which is why the product range extends from compact, fanless to high-performance systems with a variety of interfaces for computing-intensive applications. In addition to standard solutions from leading manufacturers of embedded box PCs, visual solutions providers such as Data Modul can also offer in-house developments with various additional features.

But which customer-specific adaptations are generally possible and necessary? Box PCs for embedded systems not only vary in terms of dimensions and weight depending on the manufacturer. Depending on the requirements and the performance class, system solutions are offered with or without a fan, for example.

Robust and durable top performers

Standard Box PCs do not necessarily meet all the required protection classes. In some mobile or outdoor applications, however, high protection classes are required depending on use.

Box PC with various interfaces. © Data module

Embedded Box PCs are generally available in all IP (Ingress Protection) protection classes from 20 to 65, i.e. high impact and shock resistance during operation, protection against vandalism and protection against water jets. The extended temperature application ranges are approximately between -20 and 60 °C. Here, too, there are hardly any limits if adjustments are made to the housing and the cooling or ventilation. The housings themselves can be made of different materials such as plastic or metal and can therefore also be designed with the look and feel of a complete product family.

Other possible customer-specific configurations relate to the required memory, SSD, operating system and mechanics. Data Modul, for example, extends the standard box PCs developed in-house with additional interfaces required by the customer. In order to save on cables, there are currently also solutions via USB Type C Alternate Mode - a "must-have" from a design perspective. On request, appropriate certifications are also possible for the various areas of application, such as CE, Marine or ISO 13485. The performance can be adapted and expanded as required by replacing the computer unit.

Data Modul offers complete panel PCs for industrial customers who want an integrated display rather than a separate box in their application. The visual solutions provider has therefore even developed its own SBC format for Slim Panel PCs in order to meet the increased design requirements of industrial customers.