Rugged PCs: advantages and applications

Business computer users around the world have a wide range of different requirements for their hardware devices. Business needs a cost-effective and reliable solution that will provide many years of consistent service especially in industrial areas where computers and monitors need to operate reliably 24/7, even in harsh environments. For this kind of application, Industrial PC manufacturers offer rugged computers.

Rugged Computers - what is it?

A rugged or ruggedised computer is specifically engineered to operate reliably in harsh environments and conditions, to withstand vibration, extreme temperatures, wash down and wet or dusty conditions. They are not consumer-grade computers placed in an external housing, they are engineered tough with industrial grade internal components and cooling systems designed specifically to withstand demanding conditions.

Research shows that industrial rugged PCs offer a very cost-effective solution over the life-cycle of the device. In environments where rugged computers are commonly used, total cost of ownership was 36 percent lower for ruggedised equipment, compared to conventional non-rugged versions. This is because of lower failure rates, higher productivity and less downtime.

Rugged PCs are manufactured with specialised industrial-grade components that are designed to operate reliably in a wide range of temperatures and conditions. This ensures continuous operation in cold or hot environments or in conditions when temperatures fluctuate significantly. These industrial touch PCs can have tough membranes over the screens to add protection them from sharp knives, scratches or user damage. Rugged computers are made for industrial applications including outdoors, they can be manufactured with high brightness screens for outdoor daylight viewing.

Rugged computers can be used with special rugged accessories such as waterproof keyboards, as well as other industrial peripherals sure as barcode scanners, weigh scales, RFID, printers, card readers, magnetic readers and others.

Advantages of Rugged PCs

• Durable and tough
• No moving parts
• Waterproof and dustproof
• Wide operating temperatures
• IP rated connectors
• Fanless cooling system
• Optional high bright screens
• Embedded options
• Decreased failure rate
• Long product lifecycle

Applications for Rugged PCs in Australia

STX Technology’s Rugged Computers and Monitors

STX Technology offers rugged computers and monitors with touchscreen functionality in 304 or 316 stainless steel which have high corrosion resistance, engineered for demanding environments in continuous 24/7 operation. STX Technology manufactures fanless rugged PCs with IP (NEMA) rated connectors with a wide range of options such as screen size, operating system, RAM, HDD and more. STX rugged PCs have options to suit virtually any environments and requirement.

With over 15 years experience, STX Technology understands what is required to manufacture rugged computers that are proven in a wide range of different tough and rugged environments in Australia and worldwide.