Embedded Computing Configuration Guide

An industrial computer is chosen as much for what it survives and how long it stays available as for how fast it runs. Define the environment and the lifecycle alongside the performance.

Selection Requirements to Establish

Work through what you can. Anything still undecided is exactly what a conversation with our engineers is for.

01Compute and memory

  • Workload: acquisition, vision, control, edge inference or HMI
  • Processor class and core count, and whether performance is sustained or bursty
  • Memory capacity, and whether ECC is required
  • Storage capacity, interface and expected write workload
  • GPU or accelerator requirements

02Interfaces and expansion

  • Ethernet ports, link speed, and any time-sensitive networking need
  • Serial, USB, CAN, digital and analogue I/O counts
  • Expansion slots: PCIe lanes and generation, M.2, mini-PCIe
  • Display outputs and resolution
  • Wireless, cellular or fieldbus connectivity

03Environment and lifecycle

  • Operating temperature range, and cooling method (fanless or fan)
  • Shock, vibration and ingress protection
  • Input power range and redundancy
  • Mounting: DIN rail, panel, rack or wall
  • Operating system, drivers and image control
  • Longevity programme, revision control and change notification
Other guides

Related selection guides

Embedded ComputingIndustrial Memory & Storage Selection GuideHow to select industrial SSDs, memory cards and DRAM. Automation & ConnectivityIndustrial Automation & Connectivity Project GuideHow to define an automation project. Software AssuranceSoftware Assurance & Embedded Security Evaluation GuideHow to scope a software assurance evaluation.