Know How - spo-comm

WUXGA stands for Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array and describes a resolution of 1920 × 1200 pixels in 16:10 format. A direct comparison with Full HD with 1920 × 1080 pixels is immediately noticeable: The additional height ensures more visible content. What sounds like a small difference on paper is surprisingly noticeable in everyday life. – chip.de

Why the aspect ratio makes the difference

The 16:9 format that is widely used today originally comes from the world of televisions and video content. It is ideal for films and series – but only to a limited extent for productive work. Documents, tables, technical drawings or web applications benefit significantly from more vertical space. This is exactly where WUXGA comes into play.
The additional 120 pixels in height mean less scrolling, a better overview and an overall smoother working experience. Content appears more airy, text is easier to read and information remains in the field of vision for longer. This is a noticeable ergonomic advantage, especially during long working days at the display. – giga.de

WUXGA in professional and industrial use

WUXGA shows its strengths particularly in business, industrial and outdoor applications. Here it is less about entertainment and more about efficiency, clarity and reliability. Whether maintenance logs, ERP systems, shift schedules or technical documentation, all this content benefits from a display that offers more space without relying directly on energy-hungry ultra-high-resolution displays.

Another advantage lies in the balance between sharpness, performance and energy consumption. WUXGA offers a high pixel density on 10-inch displays, but remains resource-efficient. This has a positive effect on battery life, system stability and smooth operation, all factors that are crucial in mobile use.

A display format with real added value

WUXGA is not a marketing buzzword, but a sophisticated display format that has proven itself over the years. It combines high resolution with a practical aspect ratio, creating exactly the space that productive applications need. Anyone who works with digital content on a daily basis quickly realizes that it’s not just about sharpness, but also about clarity.
WUXGA unfolds its full potential in combination with robust, powerful devices. Our RUGGED tablets show that this resolution is still a smart choice for anyone who values efficiency, reliability and a pleasant user experience.

WUXGA on spo-comm RUGGED tablets

For the reasons just mentioned, all our 10″ RUGGED tablets consistently use a WUXGA display. This ensures that our users can maintain a clear view even under demanding conditions.
Every bit of information counts, especially in harsh working environments such as industry, warehouses, field service and service calls. The WUXGA display supports exactly that: clear presentation, sufficient space for complex content and comfortable readability regardless of the application.

Discover the variety of our RUGGED tablets and their accessories now. If you have any questions about the products or need help choosing the right spo-comm system, please do not hesitate to contact us!

DISCOVER THE SPO-COMM RUGGED TABLETS

Edge AI on the upswing: market trends, growth and profitability

As Gartner predicts, the majority of all corporate data processing now takes place outside central data centers, a clear indication of the growing importance of distributed intelligence at the edge of the network.

At the same time, market research is forecasting strong growth in the edge AI market. Studies by Fortune Business Insights and other analyses show that the market for AI-based edge solutions is expanding at high growth rates. Driven by the increasing demand for real-time processing, Industry 4.0 use cases such as autonomous production lines and predictive maintenance.

These facts are bringing the cost-benefit ratio of edge AI into the focus of IT specialists and management. Where is it worth running AI workloads and how quickly will investments in special hardware, such as mini PCs, pay off?

Cost components of edge and cloud

The economic evaluation of Edge AI often focuses on the comparison between investment costs and operating costs:

Cost factor	Cloud solution	Edge AI (local)
Investment	Low (devices minimal)	Mini PCs, local AI infrastructure
Operating costs	High cloud computing costs & data traffic	Low (hardly any cloud transfer)
Bandwidth costs*	High (large amounts of data in the cloud)	Low (data processing on site)
IT operation & maintenance	External costs & scaling	Local management, low data transfer
Data storage	Permanent storage in the cloud	Selective local storage, low storage requirements

*Costs incurred for the transfer of data volumes via networks (Internet, cloud services, hosting).

As a result, analyses show that local data processing at the edge can lead to a significant reduction in total operating costs in the long term. Especially where high volumes of data need to be continuously generated and analyzed.

ROI drivers: strategic advantages of edge AI

Latency & real-time response
One of the biggest advantages of edge AI implementations is the reduced latency. Applications in manufacturing, robotics or autonomous systems require response times in the millisecond range. If data has to be sent to the cloud, delays occur that are intolerable for cycle times or safety functions. Local systems such as mini PCs process sensor data directly where it is generated, often delivering decision results in under 50 ms.
Predictive maintenance – less downtime, more productivity
Predictive maintenance is one of the most important Industry 4.0 applications and is used by many companies to avoid unplanned downtime. Bitkom studies show that companies are already increasingly relying on AI-supported analyses to monitor machine statuses and proactively schedule maintenance, for example.
Even if there are different figures for savings, the economic effect is clear: predictive algorithms can significantly reduce downtimes and maintenance costs, and even more efficiently if the analysis is carried out directly on edge systems instead of in the cloud.
Data security & data sovereignty
An often underestimated advantage is control over sensitive company data. Edge AI users minimize the need to transfer raw data to third-party cloud infrastructures, which is a plus for data protection, compliance and data sovereignty, especially in regulated industries. Local data processing limits potential attack surfaces and facilitates compliance with company guidelines.

Using edge AI sustainably with the right industrial PCs

A good edge AI cost-benefit ratio is not only achieved through AI software, but also through the choice of suitable hardware. After all, investments only pay off quickly and sustainably if the edge infrastructure used is powerful, scalable and economical. In practice, our spo-comm solutions show how this balancing act can be achieved – from entry-level to sophisticated AI scenarios.

CORE 5 Ultra – Compact entry-level AI system

The CORE5 Ultra represents a robust and compact entry into industrial edge AI. With a modern Intel® Core™ Ultra processor and integrated NPU, this mini PC is ideal for basic inference and automation tasks directly at the data source. It processes sensor data locally and energy-efficiently without a permanent cloud connection and with minimal running costs.

NOVA R680E – Industrial PC with Nvidia GPU

The NOVA R680E offers the necessary performance and expandability for more demanding AI workloads, for example in image processing, predictive maintenance or complex production analyses. Thanks to more powerful CPU options and PCIe expansion options (e.g. GPU accelerator), this industrial PC is able to run compute-intensive models directly at the edge without any data traffic to the cloud and the associated running costs.

Thanks to our spo-comm hardware qualities, strategic advantages such as low latency times, higher data security and noticeable cost savings can be realized. These are all key components of a positive edge AI cost-benefit ratio and should not be neglected. In addition, local processing ensures that companies can react more quickly to production or quality deviations and therefore work more productively.

With the combination of technically mature systems such as the CORE 5 Ultra and the NOVA R680E in combination with a well thought-out Edge AI concept, companies are relying on a basis that is not only economically convincing, but also gives them the flexibility to implement future AI projects efficiently and with our support.

We advise you on your Edge AI project

RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Entry – robust tablet for demanding applications

As the successor to the RUGGED Tab 10 N5100 Entry, we launched the RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Entry in January. This outdoor tablet is our new, robust Windows tablet, which has been specially developed for demanding applications in industry, logistics, service, construction sites and field service.

It is characterized by a robust housing with IP 65 protection and MIL-STD-810H certification, which reliably masters dust, water, drops and shocks, making it ideal for harsh working environments. The bright 10.1-inch WUXGA display with glove touch remains easy to read even in direct sunlight and can even be operated with gloves.

Inside, an energy-efficient Intel® N100 processor combined with the Windows 11 operating system ensures balanced and impressive performance. The versatile connections, such as USB, HDMI, SIM slot, WLAN or 4G, enable flexible integration into your existing IT. The RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Entry also impresses with numerous accessories such as a 2D barcode scanner, docking station or vehicle cradle and significantly expands the application options.

Discover the RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Entry!

spo-comm goes broadband – ROMOLD infrastructure days

As part of this year’s ROMOLD Infrastructure Days on January 28 and 29, we had the opportunity to be part of a two-day event on modern broadband expansion. In support of the companies gabocom and Fritsch Fernmeldebau, we accompanied both a presentation and a practical demonstration of blowing a fiber optic cable into a speedpipe microtube.

During the live demonstration, our RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Pro was used to run the corresponding software to document the blowing process. This makes it possible to record in detail where and how a fiber optic cable was blown in. This type of digital documentation forms an important basis for the subsequent traceability of the work, supports quality assurance and enables significantly faster analysis and rectification in the event of a fault, as the exact route of the cable can be viewed at any time.

We would particularly like to emphasize the great openness with which we were received on site. This is by no means a matter of course for a new sector in broadband expansion. All the more reason for us to appreciate the trust placed in us and the open, honest exchange – especially when it comes to discussing and developing new digital solutions in a practical way.

In addition to the technical program items, the event also offered plenty of room for personal exchange outside of the presentations. In discussions between the individual presentations and after the evening program, we had the opportunity to make numerous new contacts and gain valuable insights into the daily challenges of broadband expansion. At the same time, we had the opportunity to show where our spo-comm devices can provide useful support for day-to-day work in the field.

Our thanks go to ROMOLD for organizing this very successful event and to gabocom for the idea of involving us. The two days proved to us once again that personal exchange – as we always emphasize – is simply irreplaceable.

Price fluctuations in the spo-comm product portfolio

The ongoing CPU and memory problems continue to present us with challenges. We are working to minimize the impact on our customers. Nevertheless, temporary price fluctuations for individual products cannot be completely avoided at present.

We have already explained on our blog how we are dealing with the situation and what the triggers for the current crisis are:

Reasons for the ongoing CPU and memory problems

How we are dealing with the current situation

If you have any questions about the products concerned, the prices or other topics, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Get in touch with us!

At the end of 2025, we already looked at the price trends for memory and CPUs at that time. Due to the highly dynamic and constantly worsening market situation, we would like to revisit this topic here.

Why are memory and CPUs getting more and more expensive?

The main cause of the price problem is an imbalance between sharply rising demand and tightening supply.

Increase in demand due to new workloads

Innovative applications such as artificial intelligence, large databases and cloud workloads require huge amounts of RAM. These trends are not only driving demand for high-end components, but are also putting pressure on the market for standard DDR5 modules. At the same time, more and more systems are being converted to DDR5 memory, which is further boosting demand.

Capacity shifts at manufacturers

Large memory manufacturers such as Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron are using a larger proportion of their production capacity for high-performance memory and newer memory architectures such as DDR5. Classic DDR4 RAM, which we still use in some products, is therefore much less available.

Cyclical production problems

Supply bottlenecks and prioritization in production are also putting pressure on prices for CPUs: modern chips are preferably produced for server-related platforms, which means that older embedded or client CPUs are increasingly being relegated to second or third place in importance.

Price trends over the past year

The price movements in recent months have been dramatic, especially for RAM:

DDR4 and DDR5 prices have risen massively since mid-2025. Common models that were previously rather inexpensive now cost several hundred euros, which was unimaginable over a year ago. Source: pcgameshardware.de
Even standard RAM bars now usually cost well over €100 each
At the same time, DDR4 has now been replaced almost across the board by the switch to DDR5 production, which makes purchasing even more difficult.

The forecasts for 2026 assume that the market will stabilize at a higher price level before slight price reductions could occur in the medium term. Source: ipc2u.de

What does this mean for the B2B industrial PC market?

The price changes particularly affect industrial customers who rely on durable hardware and stable operating costs.

Difficult cost planning

Higher component costs inevitably lead to more expensive end products. In many industries, this means that projects with long-term hardware investments become significantly more expensive than originally planned.

Procurement is also becoming strategically more complex

Fluctuating prices not only make project planning more difficult, but also spare parts planning. Many companies feel compelled to stock up as much as possible or conclude long-term supply contracts in order to circumvent the price fluctuations to some extent.

Technical restrictions

Industrial PCs are usually designed to meet certain standards in order to remain as uniform and flexible as possible. However, many older systems cannot be easily upgraded to DDR5 memory and/or newer CPUs, as interfaces are not compatible or the components are even soldered on. This means (also for us): As long as DDR4 memories are available, they must continue to be purchased, even if they become more expensive.

How spo-comm is dealing with the situation

We try to secure contingents for our customers in advance by pre-ordering critical CPUs and RAM bars early on. We also rely on alternative sources to reduce the risk of failure in the event of bottlenecks and to meet demand in the best possible way.

At the same time, we are already testing replacement platforms, for example with ARM or AMD processors, so that we can offer alternative systems in the event of permanent bottlenecks. Our long-standing distribution partners support us in securing fixed quantities. We optimize our stock levels through close cooperation and planning.

In the long term, we are pushing ahead with the switch to new platforms. We are currently developing successor products with DDR5 support and modernized chipsets. The aim is to expand our product range in such a way that future bottlenecks are mitigated.

Through active risk management and close customer support, we ensure that your projects can continue to run as smoothly as possible. Despite all this, even we cannot avoid price increases. We are currently adjusting our prices regularly depending on the procurement costs of the components.

No end in sight in the short term

The memory and CPU price crisis is not a temporary event, but an expression of structural shifts in the global technology market. The new demand sectors are driving demand to unimagined heights and compatibility requirements are making it difficult to find quick technical alternatives. For the B2B market, this means higher prices, more complex planning and more strategic procurement decisions. Companies that have adapted their hardware strategy at an early stage and have already optimized their procurement processes have been able to gain a decisive advantage here.

We have already listed which of the spo-comm Mini-PCs are affected in terms of memory and CPUs in the first article on the subject. If you have any questions on this topic, please do not hesitate to contact us:

What is behind predictive maintenance?

While traditional maintenance involves checking systems at fixed intervals, predictive maintenance is one step ahead. Data from the machine itself, such as temperature, vibration or power consumption, is continuously recorded and analyzed. With the help of algorithms and AI models, conclusions can be drawn as to when a component is likely to fail. This means that maintenance can be carried out exactly when it is really necessary, i.e. not too early and not too late.

According to the Industry of Things, predictive maintenance describes a data-based maintenance approach in which sensor values are analyzed and failure probabilities are calculated on this basis in order to avoid unplanned downtimes.

How does this work in practice?

The basic principle is simple: machines are equipped with sensors that continuously supply data. This data is collected, processed and analyzed either directly in the machine or via an edge system.

The procedure is usually as follows:

Data acquisition: Sensors measure vibrations, temperatures, voltages, etc.
Data transmission: The information is passed on via secure networks or IoT gateways.
Analysis: AI models or machine learning algorithms recognize patterns, anomalies or trends.
Forecast: If the system detects deviations from the normal state, a maintenance requirement is reported in good time before a failure occurs.

For these processes to function smoothly, reliable hardware is needed at the edge. After all, not all data can or should always be sent to the cloud – low latency times, data protection and real-time requirements often make local processing necessary.

This is where mini PCs like our CORE 5 Ultra come into play: thanks to the Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 125U processor (with 2 Performance Cores & 10 Efficiency Cores) and integrated NPU with 11 TOPS, it can run AI models directly on the spot. This allows sensor data to be analyzed in real time and potential faults to be detected before they occur.

Discover the CORE 5 Ultra!

Advantages for industry and users

The advantages of predictive maintenance are obvious:

Less downtime: Unplanned downtimes are drastically reduced
Lower maintenance costs: components are only serviced or replaced when necessary
Longer service life: machines are protected because wear is detected at an early stage
More efficient planning: maintenance work can be carried out in a targeted and plannable manner
More transparency: companies gain valuable insights into the condition of their systems

Predictive maintenance can bring enormous efficiency gains, particularly in sectors such as production, mechanical engineering, energy and transportation. This makes it a central component of modern Industry 4.0 strategies.

What is needed for successful implementation?

Many companies would like to introduce predictive maintenance, but don’t know exactly where to start.

Fraunhofer IESE identifies three key success factors: good data, suitable models and well thought-out integration into existing processes.

Data basis: A reliable model cannot be created without high-quality and sufficient historical data.
Analysis models: AI or machine learning algorithms must be continuously fed with new data and validated.
Integration: The results must be visualized clearly and integrated into the maintenance process, ideally automatically via existing systems.

For predictive maintenance to make economic sense, companies should start small. For example, with a pilot project on a critical machine, clearly defined goals and a scalable infrastructure. The system can then be transferred to other systems step by step.

Hardware at the edge – the key to real time

A key success factor is the right hardware platform. This is because predictive maintenance applications require stable systems that run continuously, even in harsh industrial environments.

Our spo-comm industrial PCs are just right for this! They offer high computing power in the smallest of spaces, are temperature-resistant and durable in continuous operation. With integrated AI functions, for example via NUPs or optional accelerator cards, they can process sensor data directly without having to go via the cloud.

This saves bandwidth, reduces latency and makes the solution secure and independent – ideal for edge AI scenarios in industry.

Challenges and limits

As great as the advantages are, they do not come without challenges:

Data quality: Sensor errors or incomplete data make it difficult to make accurate forecasts.
Complexity: Different machine types and operating conditions require flexible models.
Know-how: Implementation requires experience in data analysis, AI and industrial IT.
Costs: Setting up a suitable infrastructure can be costly at the beginning, but in the long term it becomes automated due to less downtime.

However, companies that take a strategic approach to this issue and adapt their processes accordingly will quickly benefit from more stable workflows and lower maintenance costs.

From reaction to prevention

Predictive maintenance is more than just a buzzword, it is a real game changer for the industry. The use of modern sensor technology, AI and edge computing is turning reactive maintenance into an intelligent, data-driven process. Systems are not only monitored, but increasingly understand themselves when they need support.

With robust and powerful mini PCs such as the CORE 5 Ultra from spo-comm, such systems can be implemented reliably – right where the data is generated.

CORE 5 Ultra for predictive maintenance applications (1)

CORE 5 Ultra for predictive maintenance applications (2)

CORE 5 Ultra – Compact high-end industrial PC

To round off our AI series at the end of August, the CORE 5 Ultra was released. It impresses with an Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 processor (Meteor Lake-U), integrated Intel® Xe graphics and DDR5-5600 memory (up to 96 GB), as well as the resulting impressive performance for a wide range of applications.

The technical data at a glance:

CPU: Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 125U (Meteor Lake-U)
GPU: Integrated Intel® Xe graphics with up to 64 execution units
Support for up to 4× 4K60 HDR or 2× 8K60 displays
Up to 96 GB DDR5-5600 RAM (2× SO-DIMM)
Integrated NPU for AI acceleration (up to 11 TOPS)
Up to 2× M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Extended temperature range: 0 °C to +35 °C
Wide Range DC-In 9-24 V (internal/external)
Compact dimensions: 140 × 148 mm (mSTX)
24/7 operation for industrial applications

Connectors:

USB: 4× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A, 1× USB-C 3.2 Gen2x2, 1× USB-C with Thunderbolt™ 4/USB4
Video: 2× DisplayPort 1.4a, 1× USB-C with DP Alt Mode, 1× USB-C with Thunderbolt™ 4
LAN: 1× Intel® GbE LAN (iAMT), 1× Realtek 5 GbE LAN (TSN, Teaming)
Serial: 1× COM RS-232
Extension: 4× M.2 (2× Key M, 1× Key B, 1× Key E)
Audio: Mic-In, Line-Out

CORE 5 Ultra applications range from 24/7 operation to demanding control or visualization tasks – all in space-critical environments and with AI accelerator, as well as support for up to four high-resolution displays.

Discover the CORE 5 Ultra!

The BOX C475 – Industrial PC for digital signage and IoT

The BOX C475 is now entering the market as the successor to the popular BOX N6211. The basic features are of course retained: fanless and with compact dimensions!

It features the latest Intel® Alder Lake-N technology, low power consumption, a robust design and versatile connectivity options. The BOX is also ideal for use in industrial control systems, digital signage projects, kiosk systems and edge computing solutions.

The most important things at a glance:

CPU: Intel® Processor N100 (Quad-Core, 0.8 – 3.4 GHz, 6W TDP)
GPU: Intel® UHD Graphics (integrated)
RAM: 8 GB LPDDR5/X 4800 MHz (onboard)
Storage: 1x M.2 (SATA III or NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD)
Max. Resolution: 4096 x 2160 @ 60Hz (4K), 2 independent screens
Dimensions (L x W x H): 114.8 x 76 x 27.1 mm
Ambient conditions: 0°C to +40°C

Connectors:

2x USB 3.2 Gen 2×1
2x HDMI 2.0
1x Gigabit LAN
WiFi 6 & Bluetooth 5.2
Idle power consumption: 7.5 W
Operating systems: Windows 11 Professional, Windows 10 / 11 IoT Ent LTSC, Ubuntu

Small but OHO – Despite its tiny dimensions of just 114.8 x 76 x 27.1 mm, the system offers comprehensive connectivity. Two HDMI 2.0 ports enable 4K playback at 60Hz on two independent displays simultaneously – ideal for digital signage installations or multi-screen workstations.

A Gigabit LAN connection as well as modern WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 are available for the network connection. Two USB 3.2 ports ensure the connection of external peripherals such as touchscreens, scanners or mass storage devices.

Configure the BOX C475 now!

AI trends in the digital signage sector 2025

Personalization and real-time customization

AI allows content to be adapted to target groups and situations in real time. For example, a display recognizes whether a young family, a business customer or a technician is passing by – and displays appropriate content. Weather data or current stock levels can also be incorporated into the display. This makes messages more relevant and increases engagement(friendlyway.com).

Automated content creation with generative AI

A major effort in digital signage lies in content production. Generative AI can partially take over this task: Product descriptions, layouts or entire campaigns are created automatically based on real-time data. Retailers are already using this to update regional offers or promotions at all locations simultaneously without manual intervention(azilen.com).

Sensors, IoT and cloud: smart ecosystems

Displays are increasingly being networked with sensors, cameras and other systems. This results in solutions that recognize how many people are in a room, how long they stay there or which content attracts the most attention. In combination with cloud platforms, campaigns can be controlled centrally and optimized locally at the same time(invidis.de).

Immersive technologies: AR, VR and 3D

Digital signage is no longer just seen, but experienced. AR overlays, VR applications or 3D displays offer completely new possibilities for interaction – for example, when customers configure a product in real time or production employees are guided through complex processes via displays(mcubedigital.com).

Sustainability and energy efficiency

In addition to functionality, the focus is also shifting to energy consumption. New generations of LEDs save up to 80% electricity compared to older LCDs. E-paper displays, which consume almost no power when static, are particularly exciting – ideal for use in buildings, in transportation or for changing displays. At ISE 2025, Samsung presented its Color E-Paper: lightweight, energy-saving and centrally controllable(news.samsung.com).

Practical examples: Where digital signage is already working today

Retail: chains use AI to take local weather data into account in real time for offers – umbrellas when it rains, sunscreen when it’s hot. This increases sales and makes content more relevant.
Smart building: networked displays not only show occupancy plans, but also react to sensor data. Rooms that spontaneously become free can be booked and displayed again immediately.
Automotive: In showrooms, dealers combine large LED walls with VR elements to make it possible to experience vehicles individually – without having every model physically on site.
Production: E-paper displays serve as digital bulletin boards that provide employees with up-to-date information at all times – without high power consumption and with centralized updating.

The advantages are obvious: less manual effort, more relevance, better use of data and a clear contribution to sustainability.

Challenges in relation to Beyond Displays

As promising as the technology is, companies must also keep an eye on the challenges:

Data protection: Systems that work with cameras or sensors must be GDPR-compliant. Transparency and anonymization are crucial.
Quality assurance: Automatically generated content must be checked to avoid errors or inappropriate messages.
Costs and integration: Modern hardware such as MicroLED or e-paper is more expensive to purchase. Proper integration into existing IT and building structures is therefore important.
Complexity: Cloud, IoT and edge environments require a clear concept for security, maintenance and scalability.

Where the journey will take us in the future

Digital signage is evolving from a pure display platform into an intelligent communication tool. Hyper-personalization, automated content, immersive experiences and sustainable technologies will shape the coming years. For companies, this means that investing in flexible, AI-supported systems today not only gives them a head start in terms of efficiency and customer loyalty, but also strengthens their own future viability.

Digital signage at spo-comm

Of course, you can also find a wide range of digital signage devices in our spo-comm Mini-PC range. From CORE 5 Ultra and KUMO PCs to the ONE or BOX series, we have everything your heart desires. Whether for AI applications, point of sale, virtual reality (VR), argumented reality (AR) or video walls – we offer the right solution for your application!

Do you have any questions about our mini PCs or how to use them? Do not hesitate to contact us!

DISCOVER THE DIGITAL SIGNAGE PCS FROM SPO-COMM

In the era of Industry 4.0 and increasing digitalization, it is easy to be dazzled by buzzwords such as IoT, cloud or AI. However, SCADA systems (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) are still the backbone of many industrial processes. They enable companies to efficiently monitor, control and optimize production facilities, energy supply networks and infrastructures. “Back to basics” here means understanding the core of these systems, clearly recognizing how they work, the components and the benefits for B2B decision-makers. In this article, you will learn in a practical way why SCADA is still a crucial building block for industrial automation today.

Understanding SCADA systems: Definition and architecture

SCADA is a process control system that collects, processes and displays data from the real world to support human decision-making and automation. At their core, SCADA systems consist of several levels that work together seamlessly. Sensors and actuators record physical variables such as temperature, pressure, flow or fill levels and execute control commands. This data is forwarded to programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or remote terminal units (RTUs), which process it and send control instructions back to the actuators as required.

The system is operated via human-machine interfaces (HMI), i.e. graphical user interfaces that provide operators with insights into the current process status. Central servers store the data long-term and serve as historians to identify trends, create reports and uncover optimization potential. Communication between the components takes place via industrial networks and protocols such as OPC, Modbus or DNP3, enabling real-time control and remote monitoring.

Typical areas of application

SCADA systems can be used in a variety of ways in industry. In the manufacturing industry, they monitor production lines, detect anomalies at an early stage and ensure smooth processes. This allows maintenance work to be planned in advance and quality problems to be avoided. In the energy supply sector, SCADA plays a central role in the control of electricity, gas and water networks. Operators receive a complete overview of load distribution, consumption patterns and faults, which minimizes outages and maximizes efficiency.

SCADA is also indispensable in infrastructure: traffic control, water and wastewater systems or the monitoring of critical building and environmental systems are reliably controlled by it. With Industry 4.0, the integration of SCADA with Industrial IoT, cloud services and AI is becoming increasingly important. Modern systems use this networking to intelligently optimize production processes and make quick decisions based on extensive data analyses.

Challenges in today’s SCADA world

Digitalization increases the demands on SCADA systems. Companies expect scalable and modular systems that can keep pace with growing production requirements. Networking with cloud platforms and IoT devices opens up new possibilities, but significantly increases the attack surface for cyber threats. IT/OT convergence poses a particular challenge, as IT security concepts are not always directly transferable to operational technology. Standardized interfaces and protocols as well as specialized security measures are therefore essential to ensure secure and efficient processes.

In addition, integration into modern Industry 4.0 environments requires a high degree of flexibility in order to be compatible with cloud services, ERP systems or mobile applications. Edge computing is increasingly being used to process data directly at the source, reduce latency times and conserve bandwidth. This means that systems remain efficient and reliable even in networked environments. (Source: Inductive Automation)

Benefits of SCADA in the B2B context

The advantages of SCADA systems for companies are manifold. They enable significant process optimization, as processes can be continuously monitored and adjusted in real time. Early fault detection reduces unplanned downtime and lowers maintenance costs. At the same time, the systems create transparency: all relevant process data is traceable and can be used for optimization and well-founded decisions. Another key advantage is remote monitoring: production managers and IT managers can monitor systems from any location and intervene if necessary. The evaluation of historical data not only supports companies in complying with regulatory requirements, but also in identifying efficiency potential. This makes SCADA an indispensable tool for the digitalization of industrial processes. (Source: MixMode)

Trends and outlook

The technology is constantly evolving. Mobile HMI applications enable operators to monitor processes while on the move. Cloud SCADA solutions enable central data storage and analysis across multiple locations, while edge computing optimizes processing directly on site. Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to efficiently evaluate large volumes of data, predict maintenance requirements and autonomously optimize processes. At the same time, the importance of cyber security is growing: special solutions protect systems from attacks and safeguard the integrity of critical processes. For industrial decision-makers, this means SCADA remains a core component of automation, but must be continuously modernized and adapted to new requirements in order to achieve the greatest possible benefit.

Conclusion: SCADA as the key to Industry 4.0

These systems are more than just traditional process control systems. They form the backbone of industrial automation, create transparency, enable efficiency gains and are indispensable for the implementation of Industry 4.0 strategies. For production managers, IT managers and technology managers, it is crucial to future-proof SCADA solutions in order to take full advantage of digitalization, remote monitoring and Industrial IoT. Understanding SCADA and using it strategically lays the foundation for stable, efficient and flexible production processes in the B2B environment.

Curious?

Even more spo-comm knowledge

Do you have any questions about applications or our products? Do not hesitate to contact us or arrange a consultation directly.

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What is an NPU?

A Neural Processing Unit is a processor that has been specially optimized for the calculation of neural networks and AI models. Unlike a CPU, which can be used universally, or a GPU, which was developed for graphics-intensive and parallel computing processes, the NPU focuses exclusively on AI tasks such as pattern recognition, speech analysis or image processing.

Its architecture is designed to perform mathematical operations for machine learning particularly quickly and energy-efficiently. This makes it possible to perform complex AI calculations directly on the device (on-device AI) – without having to outsource data to the cloud. More about the differences between CPU, GPU and the Neural Proceccing Unit here.

Advantages for companies in the B2B sector

The NPU offers several strategic advantages for the B2B sector:

Energy efficiency: They consume significantly less power than GPUs with comparable AI performance. This reduces operating costs and makes them easier to use in mobile devices or edge systems.
Low latency: As data is processed locally, transmission times to the cloud are eliminated. This is crucial for real-time applications such as production monitoring or video analysis.
Data security: Sensitive data – for example from production, medical devices or financial transactions – does not leave the company. This makes it easier to adhere to data protection and compliance requirements.
Compact integration: The AI accelerators cannot be integrated directly into system-on-chip architectures, making them ideal for IoT devices, embedded systems and industrial PCs.

Possible disadvantages and restrictions

Despite their advantages, NPUs are not a universal solution for every computing task. Companies should bear a few points in mind:

Specialization: They are focused on AI tasks and cannot replace general computing tasks.
Software support: Full performance can only be achieved if applications and frameworks are optimized for it.
Initial investment: Even if the investment pays off in the long term, it often requires new generations of hardware or upgrades to existing systems.

Areas of application in the B2B environment

NPUs can be used in a wide range of applications across numerous industries.

In Industry 4.0, for example, they enable real-time analysis of sensor data in order to detect production errors at an early stage and avoid downtime. This significantly increases quality and efficiency in production.

In the healthcare sector, they are used for local image analysis of MRI or X-ray images. This speeds up diagnoses while sensitive patient data remains in-house and strict data protection regulations are adhered to.

Their strengths are also played out in the financial sector: they support fraud detection by analyzing transaction patterns in real time and reporting potential irregularities immediately.

In logistics and retail, NPUs help with automated inventory control, the analysis of customer flows and intelligent route planning. Companies benefit from optimized processes and better use of resources.

NPUs can even create added value in corporate communications – for example through real-time translations and transcriptions in video conferences without the need for external servers or cloud services.

Find out how you can also use our spo-comm Mini-PCs for AI here:

AI applications at spo-comm

Future prospects

Market experts expect NPUs to become standard in business PCs and workstations within the next two to three years. Manufacturers such as Intel, AMD, Apple and Qualcomm are already integrating them into current product lines. Similar to GPU acceleration a few years ago, the NPU will thus become an integral part of corporate IT. the big difference: NPUs make it possible to use AI functions without significant energy consumption and independently of cloud infrastructures. This opens up new possibilities for smart, mobile and data-secure business solutions. More on the upcoming developments in AI PCs was explained in more detail by heise.de.

Our conclusion on NPUs in the B2B sector

The Neural Processing Unit is more than just another hardware component – it is a strategic building block for future-proof IT architectures. Companies that rely on NPU-supported systems at an early stage benefit from more efficient AI processing, more data protection and greater independence from cloud services.

At a time when artificial intelligence is becoming a decisive competitive factor, the NPU can make the difference – between an IT infrastructure that only “supports” AI and one that consistently integrates and scales it.

Do you have any questions about AI applications with Mini PCs or would you like a free, no-obligation consultation about one of our products or your application? Then don’t hesitate to contact us!

CONTACT OUR SPO-COMM TEAM

From ISO and RUGGED tablets to QUADRO P1000 and leasing – there is a lot to mention again in July and August. We launched the “Pro” series of our outdoor tablets and once again successfully obtained DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 certification. At spo-comm, it is now possible to lease mini PCs instead of buying them in order to remain more financially flexible. Not to forget – our QUADRO P1000 is still available at a special offer price!!!

The RUGGED Tab Pro series from spo-comm

Two new devices, one common goal: maximum performance and reliability for outdoor use. At the end of June, we added two more 10″ RUGGED tablets to our tablet range: the RUGGED Tab 10 i5 Pro and the RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Pro.

With the new RUGGED Tab 10 i5 Pro, spo-comm is expanding its tablet series with a particularly powerful model for industrial use. Equipped with an Intel® Core™ i5 processor, robust housing and hot-swappable battery, it is ideal for demanding tasks in the field – whether in production, maintenance or logistics.

DISCOVER RUGGED TAB 10 I5 PRO

The RUGGED Tab 10 N100 Pro complements the series as an efficient alternative with Intel® N100 CPU. Despite its compact design, it scores with industrial robustness and is perfect for mobile applications where reliability and flexibility are required.

DISCOVER RUGGED TAB 10 N100 PRO

We have already explained the difference between the spo-comm Pro and Entry RUGGED tablets in detail in a blog article.

RUGGED TABLETS – PRO VS. ENTRY SERIES IN COMPARISON

ISO DIN EN 9001:2015 certified once again – quality that lasts

On 23.07.2025 we successfully passed the ISO audit again! ISO DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 is an international standard for quality management systems whose core elements include customer focus, leadership, process-oriented approaches, improvement, fact-based decision-making and relationship management.

ISO certification requires us not only to regularly scrutinize and optimize our internal processes, but also to consistently align our company with the needs of our customers.

A big thank you goes to our entire team, who contribute to the quality of our services every day with dedication and care.

Leasing of spo-comm Mini-PCs

As of this week, it is now possible to lease our mini PCs. This offer is particularly suitable for business customers in order to maintain liquidity, guarantee financial planning security and always remain technologically up to date!

What needs to be considered:

Leasing is possible with spo-comm from a total purchase value of €1000
The contract term is 36 months
Unfortunately, we are not yet able to display the processing of a leasing contract in the check-out of our online store. If you are interested, please contact our sales team.

Whether for digital signage, automation, AI applications or edge computing – industrial mini PCs from spo-comm stand for quality and long-term availability.

Thanks to the new leasing option, you can now enjoy these benefits even more flexibly – without any one-off investment.

MORE INFORMATION ON LEASING AT SPO-COMM

QUADRO P1000 – still at the offer price

Our QUADRO P1000, which impresses with its high-performance graphics card of the same name, is the ideal compact companion for 4K multi-monitor applications. In addition to the ability to connect four monitors via four HDMI interfaces, the graphics card also boasts other features: MOSAIC support and Nvidia’s Nview make it possible to work smoothly with several monitors at the same time. The 640 CUDA cores and the stable performance in 2D and 3D applications make developers’ hearts beat faster.

DISCOVER THE QUADRO P1000