At PSB GmbH, we understand that industrial and medical environments demand uncompromising protection for vital IT systems. Our extensive experience has shown that harsh conditions—such as dust, moisture, or chemical exposure—can compromise standard computer hardware. That’s why we apply rigorous engineering standards to develop PC-based solutions certified to IP67, delivering reliable operation even in the most challenging settings. Emphasizing robust housing designs, sealed interfaces, and state-of-the-art protection measures, we ensure our systems withstand water immersion and complete dust ingress. Every project benefits from our flexible, customer-focused approach, allowing us to adapt solutions precisely to unique operational demands. By combining deep technical know-how with quality manufacturing processes, we create hardware that inspires confidence even where failure is not an option.
Understanding the IP67 Rating
In industrial and outdoor environments, the durability of computer systems is non-negotiable, making IP67 computer systems a top choice for mission-critical operations. The IP67 rating, dictated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard 60529, defines the degree of protection that enclosures provide against the ingress of solid particles and liquids. The “6” indicates complete protection against dust—no dust can enter the enclosure. The “7” signifies that the device can withstand immersion in water up to a depth of one meter for 30 minutes without water penetration, making it a true waterproof and dustproof computer standard.
This rating is widely adopted for rugged computers and essential for sectors where conditions are harsh, whether from pervasive dust, direct water jets, or risk of total submersion. Compared to other ratings like IP65 (which only safeguards against water jets), IP67 delivers enhanced reassurance in environments with unpredictable liquid and particulate hazards. While NEMA enclosures are also prevalent in North America for similar applications, IP67 provides clear, internationally recognized protection metrics that engineers and industry decision makers value for global operations.
Key Characteristics and Design Features
Sealed Enclosures and Solid-State Construction
What sets IP67 computer systems apart is their ultra-tough, sealed enclosure design. These systems typically use industrial-grade materials such as stainless steel or anodized aluminum to prevent corrosion and physical intrusion. Sealing methods utilize high-grade gaskets and robust housing interfaces to provide airtight and watertight barriers. The solid-state construction eliminates moving parts wherever possible, leading to better longevity and minimal failure risks caused by mechanical wear.
Fanless Cooling and Thermal Management
A hallmark feature of IP67 computers is fanless cooling, implemented through passive heat sinks and thermal spreaders. Fanless design prevents dust, moisture, or debris from entering the system—extending the machine’s operational life while minimizing the need for maintenance. Fanless industrial panel PCs exemplify how the industry achieves silent, dependable operation even in high-vibration or contaminant-prone settings.
M12 Waterproof Connectors and I/O Options
Standard cabling and connectors are exposed points of vulnerability. IP67 computers overcome this with industrial M12 waterproof connectors that provide sealed, secure data and power connections. These connectors lock securely, resisting shock, vibration, and liquid ingress, critical for industrial automation, manufacturing, and outdoor deployments. Versatile I/O options—ranging from serial ports to Ethernet and USB—ensure compatibility with legacy and modern peripherals without compromising the IP67 protection envelope.
Shock, Vibration, and Environmental Resistance
Deploying an industrial computer in harsh environments demands resilience to more than just water and dust. IP67 rugged computers are engineered for superior shock and vibration resistance, often tested to military-grade standards (MIL-STD-810G/H) to ensure reliable operation during mechanical disturbances. Their wide operating temperature range—often from -20°C to +60°C or beyond—means these systems continue working when consumer-grade alternatives succumb to heat, cold, or humidity.
Applications and Use Cases
Manufacturing and Industrial Automation
Industries such as automotive, aerospace, and food processing frequently deploy industrial computers for manufacturing to monitor, control, and optimize production lines. In these dusty, often wet environments, dustproof computer systems ensure process stability and safety. Waterproof industrial computers facilitate seamless data exchange and machine oversight, even in proximity to liquid-cooled machinery or washdown zones. Specialized cleanroom settings, as discussed in the article on industrial PCs for cleanrooms, demand both contamination control and robust ingress protection.
Outdoor and Remote Installations
Utility companies, oil and gas facilities, mining operations, and construction sites present quintessential harsh environments for electronics. IP67 computer systems support data acquisition, remote monitoring, and process automation in any climate—withstanding high UV exposure, rain, mud, and dust storms. Mobile and semi-mobile workstations, such as those featured in mobile industrial workstations, have adopted IP67 builds to support real-time diagnostics in the field, improving productivity and safety for roving technicians.
Logistics and Warehousing
Modern logistics and warehousing benefit immensely from rugged computers designed for adverse settings. Automated guidance vehicles, conveyor automation, and handheld terminals require resilient computer systems capable of enduring physical shocks, dust-laden air, and temperature variations in massive distribution centers. Upcoming trends and requirements in this sector are covered in-depth in industrial PC logistics applications.
Transportation and Public Infrastructure
Railways, marine vessels, and roadside infrastructure often install IP67-rated computers to manage signaling, surveillance, and customer information systems. Designed to resist salt spray, vibration, and transient weather, these systems ensure year-round reliability—increasingly crucial as public infrastructure digitizes and automates.
Performance Benefits
Protection Against Harsh Environments
The primary advantage of IP67 computer systems is uncompromised protection against the ingress of solids and liquids, ensuring mission continuity regardless of environmental adversity. This assures operation in settings where downtime or data loss could mean safety risks or substantial financial impact. Their resilience is paramount to mission-critical applications where equipment failure is unacceptable.
Reliability, Longevity, and Reduced Maintenance
Rugged IP67 computers achieve reliability and longevity through the use of industrial-grade components and sealed construction. With no need for internal fans or filters, which can require routine service or replacement, maintenance cycles are drastically minimized. These systems outlast consumer devices by a considerable margin, slashing total cost of ownership and ensuring better return on investment. For further insights into fanless, maintenance-free operation, the guide to fanless industrial PCs offers valuable perspectives.
Operation in Extreme Conditions
Deploying IP67 computers ensures continued performance under shock, vibration, and temperature extremes. Thanks to their anti-corrosion design and robust thermal engineering, these products thrive in environments where standard computers quickly degrade. This means consistent uptime, accurate data collection, and uninterrupted process control in sectors demanding utmost resilience.
Compact, Cost-Effective Integration
IP67 devices often offer compact, modular designs—providing a fanless alternative to large, costly enclosures that would otherwise be necessary to protect traditional computer hardware in industrial settings. This results in easier integration into machines, cabinets, or vehicles, optimizing both workflow and space. Engineers and IT managers appreciate the reduced installation overhead and flexible deployment options these systems present for upgrading legacy installations or new projects alike.
Reduced Operational and Repair Risks
Minimizing entry points for dust and moisture greatly diminishes the likelihood of unexpected shutdowns, data corruption, or repair needs. In sectors where repair times are measured in thousands of euros or potential safety incidents, having a waterproof, dustproof, and impact-resistant system is an operational imperative.
The importance of IP67 computer systems lies in their ability to secure operational continuity under extreme environmental stresses. Our track record of realizing such solutions reflects PSB GmbH’s commitment to durability, custom engineering, and long-term support. Clients trust us not only for technical innovation, but also for dependable delivery and lasting product performance. As industries face ever-increasing demands for reliability and safety, we continue advancing our expertise to stay ahead of these requirements. PSB GmbH stands ready to develop and produce future-proof solutions that empower customers in any environment—today and for decades to come.
