All about Embedded Computers

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by iTech Company

As technology evolved over the years, computers have also changed in many ways such as in terms of its size and design. Today, there are several commercial embedded computers which barely resemble the typical desktop tower type PCs. But embedded PC systems have a number of features that differentiate it from the consumer-grade tower computers that are commonly use today. Here are some of the things that you need to know about this type of computers:

What are embedded computers?

Embedded computers are called by many names such as Box PC, Gateway, Controller, and Industrial PC, among others. They usually come in various shapes and sizes. Examples of these computers include the tiny ARM-based devices that are being used in today’s smartphones, to all-in-one solutions that are being integrated in several military equipment. They are especially dedicated for one or two specific purposes and being implemented as part of a larger device, intelligent system or installation. These machines simply perform their functions with minimal data or use of resources. Today, they play a significant role in the development of Internet of Things, which enables the connections between machines, people, places, things and the cloud technology.

Applications of embedded computers

Embedded computers can serve almost everything in various applications including consumer, industrial, medical, commercial and military, among others. It can act as a computer system behind the complex digital signage displays and modern interactive kiosks, telephone switches in telecommunications systems, home automation systems, inertial guidance systems in avionics, and vital signs monitoring systems in medical equipment, to name a few.

Advantages of an embedded PC over a typical computer

We can easily differentiate an embedded PC from a typical computer by how it is being used. With some of the key features of this type of computers, it offers a number of important advantages over a standard consumer-grade hardware. Here are the following:

Smaller size

This is one of the most useful features of almost all embedded computers which means that they can be installed in places where tower type computers would never fit. Take note that embedded computers are usually built around small form factor motherboards such as Mini-ITX and Intel’s NUC. With its flexible mounting options, embedded PCs can also be used in virtually any position or orientation.

Low maintenance

As many embedded PC systems especially those deployed in industrial settings are designed for 24-hour and uninterrupted operation, these computers should not need constant maintenance. Many of these machines are being used in complex systems and their reliability is a top concern. The latest innovations that allow for low maintenance include a fanless and ventless enclosure for efficient dissipation of heat while protecting its internal components from environmental damage such as dust, airborne debris, extreme temperatures, moisture and vibration.

Efficient cooling system

Most of the embedded PCs nowadays utilize passive cooling system to remain sealed against various elements while effectively dissipating heat without the use of fans. Without fans, the computer system decreases failure rates, eliminates noise and has more space for integral components. It also doesn’t require openings in the enclosure to enable air to enter and escape.

Embedded computers are now being used by almost all industries because of its reliable performance and the ability to be integrated into an existing device or serve as the brains behind a new system. But with a lot of factors that have to be considered, finding the best one for your application can be hard. If you have questions about which industrial embedded computer to opt to, contact iTech Company. With their several years of being in this industry, they can provide you with the right embedded system that perfectly fits your application. Contact them now!