At PSB GmbH, we recognize that utilizing PC systems built with industrial-standard components is essential for reliable performance in demanding sectors. Drawing on our decades of engineering experience, we design and produce solutions engineered for resilience, longevity, and compliance with rigorous industrial requirements. By integrating extended temperature range support, IP65 protection, and advanced filtering into our hardware, we ensure operation even under challenging conditions. Our team brings a collaborative, problem-solving approach to every project, customizing each system to precisely match our clients’ operational needs. This manufacturer-neutral philosophy enables us to provide the optimal configuration for industrial and medical environments. Through this commitment, PSB GmbH supports our partners in meeting their productivity and safety goals with confidence.
What Are Industrial Standard Components?
Industrial standard components refer to hardware elements in an Industrie-PC that adhere to established norms for quality, interoperability, and durability across the industrial sector. Unlike consumer-grade products, these components ensure robust operation, standardized interfaces, and compatibility, facilitating integration in a range of demanding environments. Compliance with certifications and norms such as CE, EMV, and FCC is a key aspect, providing assurances around electromagnetic compatibility and operational safety. For example, many manufacturers design their chassis according to 19-inch rack standards or offer variations like box-PCs and panel PCs for greater application flexibility.
Core Components of an Industrial PC
CPU and Mainboard
At the heart of any industrial PC are rugged, often x86-compatible CPUs from Intel or AMD, paired with a mainboard built for extended operational life and thermal management. Embedded CPUs are commonplace, as they offer lower power consumption and longer product lifecycles. Boards are designed to accept a range of PCI/PCIe add-ons for extensive customization and modular upgrades.
Memory, Storage, and Power Supply
Long-life memory modules and industrial SSDs are selected for endurance under vibration, temperature variation, and constant operation. Robust power supplies bridge voltage fluctuations, ensuring ongoing functionality even during electrical disturbances. The entire system is designed for long-term availability of spare parts, key for industries relying on 24/7 uptime.
Industrial Interfaces and Connectivity
Industrial interface diversity sets industry PCs apart. Frequently, they are equipped with multiple RS232/RS485 ports, GPIOs, CAN bus, and a variety of Ethernet connectors. This enables direct machine and sensor connectivity—a must in modern Industry 4.0 and industrial automation settings.
Form Factors and Enclosures
Industrial PCs span several forms: box-PC (compact, versatile), panel-PC (with touch screens for HMIs), and the 19-inch rack PC (for server cabinets). Some applications require IP65 industrial PCs, providing complete protection from dust and moisture, or stainless steel cleanroom PCs for critical environments. For optimal reliability, these enclosures offer passive or active cooling and certified ingress protection.
Longevity and Long-Term Availability
Importance of Long-Term Component Availability
Long-term availability (often 5–10 years or more) is crucial for industries like manufacturing, energy, and transportation, where systems cannot be easily replaced or adapted. Manufacturers guarantee this through strict component selection, partnerships with chipset vendors, and qualified change management.
Extended Lifecycle Through Rugged Design
Key to the longevity of industrial PCs is their robust structure. Features such as passive cooling (to reduce moving parts), vibration-resistant mounting, and extended operating temperature ranges are fundamental. For mission-critical settings, fanless embedded systems provide silent, maintenance-free operation without the risk of cooling fan failure.
Checklist: Key Factors for Long Lifecycle
- Confirmed availability of all critical components for 5–10+ years
- Use of industrial-grade (not consumer) chipsets and memory
- Fanless/passively cooled design where possible
- Proven record of adherence to industrial standards (CE, EMV, FCC)
- Access to lifecycle management and long-term support
Fields of Application and Practice Examples
Automation and Robotics
Robust PCs control automated assembly lines and drive complex robotics by leveraging real-time control via industrial communication interfaces. Panel PCs serve as user interfaces (HMIs), benefiting from their touch-enabled, IP-rated front panels for shop floor operations.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Data Collection
As factories embrace Industry 4.0 concepts, industrial PCs aggregate sensor data, communicate with cloud platforms, and implement edge computation. The variety of interfaces (RS232/RS485, CAN, Ethernet) supports seamless device integration—learn more about optimal setups in the fanless Box PC guide for Industry & IoT.
Harsh Environments: Dust, Moisture, Extreme Temperatures
Applications such as mining, food processing, and outdoor control systems require high IP ratings and anti-corrosive enclosures. Solutions such as fanless computers for industry are especially valued in these settings for their durability and minimal maintenance demands.
Healthcare, Cleanrooms, & Special Environments
In pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and food, cleanroom PCs housed in stainless steel enclosures support hygiene requirements and resist aggressive cleaning agents while maintaining certification standards for international use.
Criteria for Selecting the Right Industrial PC
Review Table: Comparing Industrial PC Features
| Criteria | Box-PC | Panel-PC | 19-Inch Rack-PC |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP Protection | Up to IP65/69 | Up to IP65 Front | IP20/IP40 |
| Cooling | Passive/fanless common | Often forced air | Typically fan-based, some passive |
| Expansion | Limited (modular options vary) | Modular with screens | Very high (multiple PCI/PCIe) |
| Mounting | DIN rail, wall, VESA | Panel cutout, VESA | 19-inch racks |
| Typical Use Cases | Edge computing, IoT, gateways | HMI, operator panel | Central control, server rooms |
Checklist: Essential Selection Criteria
- Required form factor and installation location (box, panel, rack)
- Specific IP protection level (e.g., IP65) relevant to the environment
- Compliance with EMV/CE certification for global distribution
- Interface and connectivity needs (number and type of RS232/RS485, USB, Ethernet, GPIO, etc.)
- Need for fanless and maintenance-free operation
- Required operating temperature range
- Certifications for hygiene, vibration, or explosion-proof where required
- Scalability and modularity for future feature extension
- Availability of manufacturer support and documentation
Future-Proofing and Trends
Industry 4.0 and IoT Integration
The ability of industrial PCs to integrate with Industry 4.0 solutions is a decisive future-proofing factor. Modular architectures, flexible firmware upgrades, and wide protocol support enable seamless connection to sensors, PLCs, and cloud platforms. Fanless embedded systems, as outlined in this guide, are leading the way for reliable and scalable deployments in smart factories.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
More industries are demanding energy-efficient, long-lasting hardware. Innovations include advanced passive cooling designs to minimize energy loss and extend lifespan, as well as systems that support remote updates for minimal on-site maintenance.
Growing Importance of Certification and Security
With growing risks in the digital and physical environment, compliance with updated EMV and IP protection standards is increasingly important for both operational safety and cybersecurity. International certifications ensure global deployability and simplify cross-border project implementation.
Selecting industrial-standard PC components is more than just a technical decision; it directly impacts the durability, maintainability, and long-term success of complex installations. Our proven process—from detailed requirements analysis through thorough burn-in testing—ensures every system meets stringent operational expectations. PSB GmbH’s flexible production capabilities and strong supplier network enable us to deliver both custom prototypes and scalable serial manufacturing, consistently on time. Customers can rely on our expertise to deliver hardware tailored for enduring service and straightforward lifecycle management. As we look toward the future, PSB GmbH remains committed to advancing robust, tailor-made computing solutions that evolve with the needs of industry and technology alike.
