Compact embedded controller for harsh environments

Now available from Saelig, the emPC-CXR rugged embedded PC system, from Janz Tec, Germany, is based on the GE Intelligent Platforms Rugged COM Express embedded processor modules that meet the extreme demands of temperature, moisture, size, shock, and vibration. Available processor types include the dual-core 1.7GHz Intel Core i7-3517UE with 4MB L2 cache, the dual-core 1.4GHz Intel Celeron 1047UE with 2MB L2 cache, and the Intel Panther Point PCH memory chipset. The emPC-CXR Rugged Embedded PC System includes a number of moisture-proof interfaces, including two USB2.0 ports, a VGA port, a 9-34V power supply input, two M12 5-pin connectors for CAN or serial ports, as well as an SJA 1000 CAN controller. The CAN physical layer is logic-isolated, and the network termination is software selectable. With all connectors are mounted, the emPC-CXR has IP67 waterproof protection. The emPC-CXR is designed for an ambient operating temperature range from -40degC to 70degC, and its compact housing measures 10.6" x 7.9" x 3.2". For shock resistance, the emPC-CXR complies with IEC 60068-2-27, with vibration compliance to IEC 60068-2-64. The systems also meets DIN EN 50155 for electronic equipment used in railway rolling stock applications. Supported operating systems include Windows Embedded Standard7 (WES7) and Linux (others by request) and the realtime environment Codesys SoftPLC can be preconfigured for individual applications. The special robustness of the emPC-CXR, adhering to DIN EN 50155, has resulted in a rugged computing platform for a wide range of industries that include mining, farming, railway, construction equipment, military, aircraft, and marine, all requiring extremely reliable mobile controllers. The emPC-CXR rugged embedded PC system is also suited to medical and onshore/offshore applications in which stationary systems with high reliability and long life are required. The emPC-CXR system is a problem-free control solution for environmental temperature extremes, and its IP67 protection class means it is resistant to dust and moisture - even salt mist - and waterproof to a depth of at least three feet, says the company. "The long-term cooperation with GE Intelligent Platforms combined with our expertise in the field of embedded computer systems resulted in a product design for many rugged environments. This offers a robust and high-quality computing platform," said Michael Rennerich, Janz Tec's executive director.