For industrial touch monitors, there are many different components to choose from. So how do you know which to choose for your specific application? This blog post will discuss six key factors to consider when selecting components for industrial monitors, from storage and processing power to memory requirements I/O requirements.
1. How much storage space?
The first consideration is the storage space your industrial touch monitor needs. Start with at least 64GB of storage, using your current PC as a baseline. Additionally, most modern SSDs are rated to accommodate rewrites without downgrading.
Storage types to consider:
- HDD: Hard disk drive. not recommend. These are generally not suitable for industrial PCs, especially fanless models, unless the installation environment is very mild. They cost less, but moving parts make them vulnerable to damage and have a short lifespan.
- SATA SSD: SATA solid-state drives are faster than HDDs, but require cabling.
- mSATA SSD: Mini SATA has similar performance to SATA, but in a smaller package. They do not require cables but have limited capacity.
- M.2 SSD: Faster, smaller than SATA SSD, and requires no cables. However, it does not support NVMe.
- PCIe M.2 SSD: Unlike standard M.2, this version supports NVMe.
- NVMe protocol SSD: Use the faster PCIe bus for faster transfers.
2. What are my input/output requirements?
Industrial PC I/O needs are driven by data and analysis needs, network needs, and new technology integration. Here are the needs we see most often:
- LAN/GbE: LAN port or Ethernet port. The range of connections is wide. GbE means a LAN port that supports at least 1 Gbps.
- PoE: Power over Ethernet. In addition to data transfer, PoE also provides power to peripheral devices that do not have a power source. (Some camera types require PoE)
- HDMI/DP: The most common high-resolution video connection. Both support audio and high-speed video resolutions, and handle video feeds just fine.
- VGA/DVI: Legacy connections may require these types of ports to continue using existing display devices.
- COM port/serial port/RS232 port/IOIOI port: The data transfer speed is slower than USB, but provides a dedicated interface.
- DIO: General purpose input/output with logic signals. It detects two possible values (such as closed and open) and works with limit switches, motion sensors, switch contacts, and status indicators.
- USB Type A and C: Universal Serial Bus is the most well-known connection type. USB form factors are shapes (like Type A or Type C), while performance is measured in numbers (3.1, 3.2 and Thunderbolt 4)
3. What data connection do I need?
Industry 4.0 is a growing trend in the manufacturing, automation and networking industries as companies invest in digital technologies and connectivity solutions to transform their future operations.
There are several key factors to consider when choosing a wireless networking solution for your industrial touch monitor or IoT deployment. Some connection options include:
- Wired Ethernet: Cabling prevents interference and provides low latency/high bandwidth transmission. However, it adds bulk and logistical challenges.
- WiFi: Also provides low latency/high bandwidth transmission, but without wiring. However, it can fall prey to interference or low power challenges.
- Cellular: Offers excellent downtime protection and can be customized for better security than WiFi. However, it can suffer from latency and bandwidth challenges.
- LoRa/LoRaWAN: shine in low-power scenarios, providing transparent layer security. However, there is no uniform global frequency solution.
4. How to choose a suitable temperature range?
Every component of an industrial touch monitor has an operating temperature, and many components generate their own heat. Enclosure design can meet or break temperature requirements as well-designed enclosure elements dissipate heat generated by hardware components. Otherwise, high temperature will interfere with the stable performance of the monitor.
- The standard temperature range is typically 0°C to 50°C.
- The extended temperature range is typically about -40 to 70 degrees Celsius.
- In some cases, the standard temperature is considered to be -20 to 70 and wide temperature -40 to 85.
When determining the temperature range, consider the temperature at which the measurement is fully utilized or when the computer is pushed to the maximum. Consider case design, mounting location (enclosure, ventilation, and ambient temperature), wide temperature component options, and resource consumption of software applications.
5. What power do I have?
Clean energy is one of the most important considerations. The most common power source is a DC power supply, and direct wiring of the DC power supply prevents failures. Check the spec sheet for a potential monitor to determine your power needs. Also, make sure these power supplies are suitable for your installation location, including the installation space, while leaving room for the power connections.
6. Which form factor is suitable for my installation location?
The technical specifications will list the physical requirements for the selected system. When choosing a form factor, consider:
- Physical constraints on the mounting location: For example, a shoebox form factor takes up less space but creates temperature constraints. Server racks can hold large equipment but require special mounting hardware.
- Environmental limitations of the installation location – air particles, liquids, extreme temperatures, etc.: For example, a fanless form factor prevents dust contamination.
- Additionally, an IP rating will help determine how resistant your PC is to dust or water. The first number indicates protection against solids, while the second number indicates protection against liquids. For example, IP65 is dustproof against standard water spray, while IP67 is also dustproof but against short-term immersion in water.
Choose the right industrial touch monitor with the help of an expert
There are many variables when it comes to choosing the right industrial touch monitor. Talking to the experts at Industrial Touch Monitor can help you navigate the choppy waters of component selection and product availability. Need help choosing the right solution for your project? Contact Industrial Touch Monitor today to find the right product for your next project.