Ingress Protection Standards and Codes for Embedded Touch Panel PC

Ingress protection refers to the physical properties of a device or assembly and its capacity to resist dust, fine particles and larger objects, as well as moisture and water.

What IP numbers mean

The two digits in IP ratings have different meanings. The first digit indicates the extent to which the user or public is physically safeguarded from moving parts, in addition to how resistant the equipment is to foreign bodies. Conversely, the second digit refers to moisture protection, such as from dripping water, fine sprays or total submersion. A piece of equipment rated to IP65 standard, for instance, should be totally dust tight and able to withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction.

How to choose panel PCs based on the IP standards

Check that new embedded touch panel PC hardware is supplied in an IP enclosure to protect its internal components from contaminants. IP enclosures comply with standards laid down by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

How to determine the environment in which a panel PC will be used

For new installations, a site survey or communication with architects or building project managers will reveal detailed information about the anticipated conditions and physical environment in which panel PCs are to be used. Attention should also be paid to the project specification in the case of building extensions, server farm upgrades or the installation of new manufacturing plant and machinery; these factors affect humidity, temperature and vibration levels.

An ongoing dialogue and meetings with local IT and general management keep necessary parties informed, manage expectations and help ensure project success and functional touch panel PCs and other embedded equipment.


IP Ratings.

Panel Computers Information. GlobalSpec.

Tough and High-Tech Materials that Make Industrial Computer Products

Regular home and office computers are made from a wide range of materials, some of which are very hard to find. Silicon is the most common and it is used in the memory, processor, and GPU. Then again, the chemical and physical properties of silicon necessitate the addition of other elements to make the material more suitable for use in a computing device. A hard disc consists of a magnet tape doped with iron oxide and a disc made from magnesium or aluminium alloy. The reason for using an alloy is that aluminium alone is not hard enough to meet the durability requirements of a hard disc. Copper is used for its electrical conductivity and ceramic capacitors for their low capacitance capabilities. Other elements such as gold, phosphorous, neodymium, zinc, nickel, and NiP are also used in computers in various quantities.

Industrial PC Materials

Industrial PCs are built with materials of a higher grade to meet ruggedness standards. Aluminium is used in industrial computer products because it is strong and has the capability to endure shock and vibrations. Foam enclosures on hard drives are efficient in keeping the inner components safe from drops and extreme vibrations. Rubber isolators and fans are suitable for reducing noise levels. Conformal coating in internal components prevents mould growth in highly humid environments.

Industrial computer products are of the highest quality; and therefore, offer utmost durability. Ruggedised machines contain materials that can withstand wear and tear for a long time; however, some of the materials used are hard to find, and that impacts their sustainability. It is one of the reasons industrial PCs cost more than regular computers.

Impact of Technological Advances

Over the years, advancements in technology have made it possible to get better industrial computer products. Innovations such as custom-built heat pipes allow funnelling of heat from internal parts. LCD and touchscreen technologies have also grown dramatically, providing options like anti-reflective and anti-glare features. Core processors have advanced as well to offer more power efficiency.


The weird and wonderful materials that make up your PC,