Do you want to deploy your application and embed a hardened PC in a difficult environment (street cabinet, technical room, kiosk, access control terminal, etc.)? Then, having a reliable, Fanless version “without ventilation” allows you to significantly limit maintenance needs.
What is an industrial Fanless mini PC? It is the robust, hardened, reliable and 24/7 version of a desktop PC.
Rugged mini PC, BOX PC, Fanless mini PC: the specificities
Fanless mini PC: without ventilation, how does it work?
Fanless solutions are developed on mobile CPU architectures. That is to say, CPUs with a low TDP (thermal envelope). In addition to being easier to cool, the use of this type of processor guarantees low system consumption. In general, the CPUs used do not exceed 15W for rugged mini PC versions. Some may even have even more modest consumption.
The heat dissipation of the processor is ensured by an aluminum and/or copper heat sink which takes the form of a "small radiator". These materials are used because they are extremely conductive. In addition, a thermal pad allows them to be bonded to the processor to maximize efficiency.
What processors on the industrial mini PC?
There are a huge number of processors in the Intel ranges. Industrial mini PC manufacturers generally select long-life versions (5-10 years). The most classic version is the Celeron J1900, launched by Intel in 2014. This processor still equips many embedded solutions today.
However, today it is gradually being replaced by newer versions. Indeed, the growing resource requirements of Edge Computing (and computing applications in general) are driving this transition. The new classics are represented by Gemini Lake versions like the J4125 or Elkhart versions like the J6413.
High reliability RAM and SSD storage components
To maximize the reliability of these embedded systems, the use of industrial components is strongly recommended. To learn more, do not hesitate to consult our article on industrial components. In addition, it will be necessary to favor, as far as possible, versions without moving parts: flash memory.
Wide range power supply
One of the essential components of the mini PC operation is the power supply. Indeed, for certain applications, it may be interesting to be able to power the embedded mini PC on a DC power supply.
There are two types of power supplies: 12VDC with a jack connector; and terminal block with a wide operating range of the 9-30 VDC type.
The I/O or inputs and outputs of the rugged mini PC
Most compact solutions have a number of inputs and outputs limited by the very compact size of the enclosure.
Our flagship version, the SPW-1021N, has for example 3 screen outputs, a serial port, 6 USB ports... But also numerous internal extensions for communication (wifi, 4G) and for M.2, 2.5" storage. These inputs and outputs are designed to meet the maximum number of applications.
Mini PC Windows 10, Mini PC linux - The embedded operating system
The embedded mini PC versions we offer are compatible with your preferred operating system, whether it is Windows or Linux . We offer assembly service with OS installation Windows IoT Enterprise on request, from one piece.
Mini Pc windows 10 IoT business
For IoT and embedded applications. Windows 10 IOT enterprise LTSC licenses are the most suitable. Using these versions allows you to avoid mandatory Windows updates over a period of 10 years. In addition, for deployments on "celeron" or "atom" type processors, the license costs are low.
Box PC assembly, an important detail
BOX PCs, in order to be able to integrate into most applications, must be easy to mount. Moreover, there are various mounting options: wall mounting, DIN-RAIL mounting.
Application examples
- Access controls
- Data acquisitions
- Dynamic displays
- IoT
- Edge computing
- ...
Fanless Mini PC - wifi / 4G / 5G communication extensions
Depending on the Box PC versions, it is possible to add communication extensions. These extensions allow the industrial PC to connect in 4G, 5G or Wifi. A SIM card slot is generally provided on the motherboard. We have a wide choice of modules to meet all the problems you may encounter. These standard modules are usually in M.2 format (3042 for 4G, 5G) and they are integrated and wired in our premises in France.
Need a rugged PC for your application?
Are you interested in the above products and solutions, or do you have questions and would like us to help you define a platform for your application? Our pre-sales team is available to answer your questions and guide you through your projects.
You can contact us directly, we can define a tailor-made solution and equipment with you.
Contact form
sales@sparwan.com
02 51 99 13 03