What is an industrial PC? Part 2: Energy efficiency

19.11.2019

Part 1 of our current knowledge series about the industrial PC has convinced? Then we’ll follow up straight away! The second part of our blog series on robust computing systems focuses on the energy-efficient design of the systems. Why is this so important? We clarify.

Energy-efficient industrial PCs: not just good for your wallet

In Part 1 of our blog series we discussed why metal enclosures are essential for industrial computers. We have learned that a robust shell is important for both robustness and heat generation in combination with the waste heat from the IPCs. The latter is a good reason and another important factor for the following characteristic of industrial PCs: energy efficiency . The reasons why IPCs should not consume vast amounts of energy are as follows:

Industrial PCs often run 24 hours a week, 360 days a year. The continuous operation of the computers is a key distinguishing feature compared to PC systems from the consumer league. If a computer consumes less electricity, it costs the operator less money. This also makes the industrial PC more durable.
If a system is installed in a closed installation (such as in ATMs, in vehicles or in measuring stations), it must be ensured that increased temperature development due to waste heat released by the small computers does not jeopardize the installation. But how can it be ensured that the systems only produce a minimum amount of heat? The key to low heat development is the selection of so-called "low-power" hardware, i.e. PC components with low energy consumption. If a processor (also: CPU) or a RAM bar only consumes a minimum amount of energy, conversely, less energy is released into the environment in the form of heat. At first glance, energy-efficient computers (low-power consumption) may seem like a "nice to have". At second glance, however, this feature is what makes these solid mini PCs what they are.

Would you like an example? We just happened to have something prepared:

Environmentally conscious and powerful: The BOX N4100

The fanless BOX N4100 is an ultra-compact industrial PC (also known as an "embedded PC") with a volume of just 0.22 liters. Thanks to its dimensions of 115 x 76 x 25 millimeters, the IPC takes up hardly any space and fits into any installation, no matter how small. But despite its diminutive size, the mini PC is in no way inferior to its larger counterparts in terms of performance. Playback of two 3840 x 2160 pixels - i.e. 4K - at a frequency of 60 hertz is no problem for the small power pack and makes it particularly interesting for digital signage applications. You might be thinking: "That's crazy, it must use a lot of electricity"? You might think so. In fact, under full load, the small popular model consumes a maximum of 19 watts. For comparison: Our KUMO IV already consumes 45 watts in "idle mode". The BOX N4100, on the other hand, achieves maximum values of 3 watts in idle mode. The bottom line is that the cost-benefit ratio is impressive.

Any questions? Or are you looking for a suitable industrial PC? Our consultants will be happy to help you make the right choice!

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