Industrial PC
An industrial PC is a rugged computer built for factory environments. It sits between a small desktop and a server rack in size and capability, and it is designed for high reliability, precision, and long-term availability. Industrial PCs usually cost more than consumer PCs and often use full-featured processors such as x86.
They are mainly used for process control and data collection, and in larger setups they can serve as a front-end to other control systems. Software can be custom-made for a job or based on standard packages like TwinCAT, Wonderware, LabVIEW, or Labtech Notebook.
To handle harsh conditions, industrial PCs offer flexible I/O options. They use plug-in analog and digital I/O cards, machine interfaces, and extra communications ports. Sometimes the motherboard’s own serial port suffices, but expansion cards add much more capability. They are built for longer lifespans and better compatibility than consumer PCs and are commonly laid out in the 19-inch rackmount format, often using standard motherboards with backplanes or single-board designs.
A common variant is the Panel PC, where a display is integrated with the computer enclosure, usually with a touch screen. Panel PCs range from inexpensive, non-sealed models to tougher versions with IP67 sealing for waterproofing, and even explosion-proof variants for hazardous environments.
Overall, industrial PCs are designed to survive the plant floor and operate across wider temperature ranges, keeping electronics protected while delivering dependable performance.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 13:12 (CET).