How Rugged Computers Are Used in Process Automation

Process automation is becoming increasingly popular today across many industrial sectors. The three main goals of this automation technology include automating certain processes, centralizing information, and minimizing the need for human input.

Industrial computers are integral to successful process automation. Daisy Data Displays manufactures durable, reliable industrial computers and displays. Highly specialized and regulated industries depend on us to supply them with standard and custom solutions for harsh environments. Learn more about how rugged computers are utilized in process automation.

What Is the Role a Typical Computer in Automation?

High-volume manufacturing processes are difficult for humans to perform with the necessary efficiency, which is why many of these processes use automated computer systems. Computers facilitate precise and efficient manufacturing to boost the output of complex products.

Rugged computers are specifically intended for use in harsh or potentially hazardous environments.

The Relationship Between Rugged Computers and Process Automation

Over the years, rugged computers have helped shape the future of automation, while developments in automation have led to innovations in rugged computing systems. They have a symbiotic relationship.

Unlike other types of computing systems, rugged computers are intended for 24/7, around-the-clock operation without being affected by the dust, vibration, and extreme temperatures of manufacturing environments. Most rugged computers must be rated at least to NEMA 4X, IP67, and other standards.

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Applications of Rugged Computers in Automation

Rugged computers have several applications in industrial process automation, including:

• Industry 4.0 (smart factory systems)
• Image archiving
• Production line automation
• Object detection and recognition
• Machine and robot control
• Flaw detection and surface inspection

Examples of Automation Software

The following are examples of popular automation software used in process automation applications:

Emerson

Emerson’s software enables more eco-friendly, secure, and safer manufacturing processes. The DeltaV™ Distributed Control System (DCS) is a user-friendly automation system that helps simplify operations and reduce project risk. The suite of products and services included in DeltaV™ are designed to optimize plant performance through the integration of easy-to-use, intelligent controls.

Designed for water and power applications, Emerson’s Ovation™ DCS provides generator excitation control, vibration monitoring, scalable footprints, safety instrumented systems (SIS), and embedded simulation capabilities.

Wonderware/AVEVA

Wonderware, now rebranded as AVEVA, is a leading provider of human-machine interface (HMI) solutions. The AVEVA® System Platform includes multiple features for industrial process automation, including data connectivity, deployment, configuration, security, communication, and more.

The software’s object-based approach enables more capabilities, including the ability to optimize system sustainability, establish new data source connections, and improve reporting. Its powerful templates make it easy to quickly add critical functionality to any system. Users can also build and test different types of application objects prior to incorporating them into production.

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The Benefits of Rugged Computers in Process Automation

The use of rugged computers has benefited the automation industry in a couple of key ways, namely in minimizing system failures and downtime as well as increasing safety in meeting manufacturing requirements. These computers are particularly important as companies seek systems that can hold up in harsh environments.

Some additional benefits of rugged computers for process automation include:

• Improved employee safety
• Automation of high-speed quality checks
• The prediction of maintenance requirements
• Real-world simulations that allow for risk analysis and testing without financial investment or risk of adverse effects
• Automated documentation of critical information, eliminating human error

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Examples of Benefits in the Oil & Gas Industry

Accuracy remains one of the most important elements of good data collection and analysis in the oil and gas industry. Specialized sensors help collect data with consistent accuracy even in tough environments, and the data is quickly processed to provide timely information key to informed decision-making. Here are some ways rugged computers enable process automation in the oil and gas industry:

• Collect and analyze data during well interventions: Rugged computers help monitor and evaluate downhole sensor data during well intervention events. These sensors provide data around metrics like flow rate, temperature, and pressure within wellbores, indicating the well’s performance.
• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors: IIoT sensors can be installed in drilling equipment to capture data in real time regarding fluid properties, geology, and more. The sensors feed the data into rugged computers, which quickly analyze this data to identify any anomalies or patterns. These insights could determine whether drilling and production is feasible in a given area.

For safe, secure operation in an oil and gas context, rugged computer systems must have explosion-proof certification. They should also be able to function in hazardous environments, such as those involving the processing, manufacturing, storing, and distribution of flammable materials.

Examples of Benefits in the Life Sciences Industry

Life science and pharmaceutical processing facilities also benefit from rugged computers, which improve operator control of various process automation equipment. Industrial HMIs must be rated to IP64/65/66 standards, verifying that they can withstand dirt, dust, debris, liquid, and bacteria. To maintain the strict hygiene and sanitation requirements of this industry, many of these rugged computers must also tolerate multiple rounds of aggressive cleaning processes often using harsh chemicals.

Located on the production floor, pharmaceutical rugged computers have antibacterial membrane keyboards and high-definition, glove-friendly touch screens, giving onsite operators easier access to key data and allowing them to make process changes as needed. Equipped with wifi, rugged computers can be customized with long-range KVM extenders so that offsite technicians can set up or troubleshoot the computers without physically entering sensitive production areas.

Specific applications for rugged computers in the life sciences/pharmaceutical industry include:

• Analyzers
• Batch reactors
• Bulk storage
• Centrifuges
• Fermentation
• Mix tanks
• Weighing applications

Rugged Computer Solutions from Daisy Data Displays

Using rugged computer systems can facilitate reliable process automation in many industries, such as oil and gas. At Daisy Data Displays, we design, build, and test our rugged industrial computer systems and accessories so that they can work in a variety of harsh environments. Daisy Data Displays is an ISO 9001:2015 registered manufacturer, and our 100% American-made products are NEMA 1, NEMA 4, NEMA 4X rated, and meet Class I, II and III, Division 2, Group A-D, and F&G standards.

Contact us to learn more about our capabilities, or request a quote to find the right product for your operations.

What is a KVM Extender?

A keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) extender is a device that enables users to work on a computer from a distance. While USB keyboard and mouse cables can only provide reliable connections for up to 5 meters, a KVM extender transmits these connections over substantially longer distances. It provides access to computers from remote locations and facilitates point-to-point computer extension.

As a trusted manufacturer of industrial computing technology, Daisy Data Displays can help you incorporate the most suitable KVM extender system for your application. This article will explain how KVM extenders work and the benefits they provide.

How Does a KVM Extender Work?

KVM extenders comprise a pair of two separate units, a transmitter (Tx) that connects to a computer system and a receiver (Rx) that connects to devices at a remote user station. After the transmitter is connected to the computer system, it captures peripheral signals, such as the USB for keyboard and mouse, audio, or video.

These signals are then encoded using either proprietary or internet protocol and extended to the remote user station where they are decoded powered by the KVM receiver unit. IP KVM extenders transfer information as network packets using standard networking infrastructure.

KVM extenders are an effective and reliable solution for overcoming the distance limitations of HDMI, DisplayPort™, and USB cables. They facilitate signal transmissions anywhere from 15 ft. to several miles from the system. It should be noted that while KVM extenders operate reliably over very long distances, the cost of implementing this type of system is costly.

Fiber Optic KVMs

KVM extenders transmit signals using either CATx or fiber optic cables. While CATx cables are made from copper and function at a maximum distance of 328 ft. (100 m), fiber optic cables are made from optically pure glass and can cover many miles. Since fiber optic cables transmit digital information using light instead of electrical signals, they are immune to electro-mechanical interference (EMI).

Fiber optic KVMs are a unique solution for sending signals in challenging applications, such as:

• Extended distances, such as between buildings
• In electrically noisy environments
• Through areas supplied by different power sources
• In applications where data security is a key concern

Fiber optic KVM distances range from 984.2 ft (300 meters) to 24.8 miles (70 kilometers), depending on cable, wavelength, and network.

The fiber-based KVM extender utilizes a transmitter to convert standard data signals into a modulated light beam, which is then transmitted through the fiber to reach the receiver. The receiver then converts the light back into electrical signals. Many newer fiber-based KVM extenders support both digital and analog transmission.

What are the Benefits of Using a KVM Extender?

Whether used in an industrial or office workplace environment, KVM extenders deliver a number of benefits. At Daisy Data Displays, we have developed durable and long-lasting solutions for applications where vibrations and other hazardous conditions threaten equipment reliability. In challenging environments, KVM extenders can improve workspace efficiency, enhance IT security, protect against downtime, and more.

Improve Workspace Efficiency

KVM extenders reduce noise, heat, and clutter from work areas by enabling employee computers to be relocated to a single, centralized location. When a user needs to work on multiple systems, KVM extension with switching solutions allows multiple computers to be controlled with a single set of displays, keyboard, and mouse, decluttering and optimizing desk space.

Case Study: Auto Body Shops

One example of improved workspace efficiency can be seen in our collaboration with an auto body shop customer. Daisy Data Display assisted auto body shops that were having a difficult time mixing paint onsite. The customer’s commercial-grade, off-the-shelf PCs were unable to operate correctly in the mixing room and they were experiencing frequent, costly technological failures.

To resolve this issue, our engineers determined that KVM extenders would enable the customer to continue using their existing PCs from a safer, off-site location. In the mixing room, we installed an industrial-grade monitor and paired it with a high-precision scale connected using a KVM extender to the off-site PC. This solution resulted in significantly improved efficiency for the customer, who was then able to reliably produce paint batches.

Heighten Collaboration

Another key benefit of KVM extenders is that they are ideal for situations where multiple users need to access the same computer to perform work from different locations. For example, a professor might need to use a computer across campuses, or an office worker might require access from multiple locations within the same building.

KVM extenders not only facilitate this but also allow users to perform other collaborative tasks effortlessly. When KVM solutions are implemented, a user can easily share their desktop onto a large screen, for example. Being able to easily perform these kinds of tasks improves decision-making and teamwork and simplifies workflows.

Enhanced IT Security

Another important benefit of centralizing equipment to one location using KVM extenders is to improve security and simplify maintenance. Using a server room ensures computers are safe from corrosive elements like moisture and salt and keeps them safely in a dust-free, temperature-controlled location.

Server rooms also have the added benefit of being easy to lock for security purposes. This limits access to your assets and helps to prevent hardware theft or tampering. In busy locations such as lobbies, shopping malls, and libraries, KVM extenders allow computer monitors or interactive touchscreens to be displayed while the computers powering them are safely away in a more secure area.

Working in Hazardous Area

Many industries feature hazardous work environments that make reliable computer operation difficult, if not impossible. In these situations, frequent technology failures can have significant financial implications, both from system downtime as well as the cost of technology replacement. As a solution, using KVM extender cables to operate PCs from a safe, remote location minimizes maintenance and replacement costs. It’s also generally cheaper to purchase a non-ruggedized PC and house it in anon-hazardous area with a KVM extender that connects to a ruggedized monitor,than purchasing an all-in-one ruggedized PC for the hazardous area.

An example of this can be seen in the auto body case study. Due to the hazardous nature of the paint mixing area, the client’s commercial-grade computers were frequently failing. By installing a 75 ft. cable harness that connected the HDMI touchscreen, video, and power to their PC in a remote location, the client was able to operate their technology safely and easily integrate a wide variety of automation equipment and software.

When coupled with a 2123 industrial monitor, the client was able to take advantage of advanced process control with a 15.6″ HD color LCD multi-touch display. The result was a reduced risk of lost revenue from production downtime and decreased costs overall.

Learn More About KVM Extenders From Daisy Data Displays

KVM extenders not only reduce workspace clutter, heat, and noise, but they also facilitate enhanced data protection and can minimize the maintenance and repair costs associated with operating computers in hazardous environments. In fact, nearly any environment that uses a computer can benefit from KVM extenders.

At Daisy Data Displays, we develop solutions for clients in highly specialized industries. All of our KVM extenders are backed by over 40 years of expertise and manufactured in our ISO: 9001 registered facility. To learn more, contact us with any questions or request a quote today.

How are Military Monitors & Keyboards Different from Regular Ones?

Military computers and equipment must comply with strict standards and undergo rigorous testing to perform in military applications that conventional computers and equipment cannot withstand. The systems and components need to demonstrate high performance and ensure reliable operation even under challenging conditions, exhibiting a track record of zero failures. Military computers and systems rely on military-grade monitors and keyboards that meet military standards. A variety of military monitors are available, each designed for specific display applications, while military keyboards prioritize ruggedized features and functional capabilities.

What Is Meant By Military Grade for Computer Monitors and Keyboards?

Military-grade computer equipment must pass various tests to ensure it meets MIL-STD-2036A, 167-1A, 462, 461F, 901D, and 810 standards. The tests include operation at temperatures ranging from -40 to +60°C and the capability to withstand sudden temperature increases and drops. To meet military standards, computers must also withstand direct sun exposure for a period of three to seven days and be equipped with special enclosures that prevent the ingress of dust, sand and salt-fog into the device.
Military computer equipment are placed into a vat of water and sprayed with water at various intensities to test their resistance to water exposure and rainfall. Military-grade computers may also be evaluated to withstand shock from nearby explosions and conditions wherein personnel parachute from planes while carrying the computers. They should also possess the ability to effectively shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI) to ensure reliable and uninterrupted operation in demanding military environments. To test these abilities, military-grade computer monitors and keyboards are subjected to rigorous EMI tests to ensure their resilience against electronic disturbances, guaranteeing uninterrupted operation in hostile environments. Additionally, they undergo extensive shock and vibration testing to verify their durability under harsh conditions, ensuring reliable performance in the field.

Military Monitors

Military monitors have different requirements than conventional monitors to deliver performance in the harsh conditions and situations military personnel encounter during critical missions. In addition to a ruggedized display, portability, readability, and the ability to withstand a range of temperatures are critical for monitors in military applications. Military monitors should offer the following qualities:

• Display Readability: Being able to see and read the display is vital to operations, allowing personnel to see critical information to assess the situation. The display should remain readable in the event of electromagnetic interference (EMI), and the presence of dust, vibration, and shock common in military activities. They should also have readability with night vision and high brightness or NITS.
• Portability: Monitors should be lightweight, reliable, and rugged enough to travel in and around the base and to the front lines without fail. Manufacturers must consider shock and vibration regardless of if the monitor is in a transit case or mounted in a console.
• Extended Operating Temperatures and Harsh Conditions: Military-grade computer equipment must withstand operating temperatures between -40 °F to 60 °C, along with storage temperatures between -67 °F to 185 °F. Military monitors and keyboards must be specifically designed and constructed to withstand the corrosive effects of salt and the adverse conditions of fog, ensuring their durability and optimal performance in challenging maritime or coastal environments.

Naval Displays

Naval displays must operate for extended periods and comply with naval vessels’ maintenance schedules for integration into naval systems like submarines and ships. They also require additional Mil-Spec ratings to qualify for ship usage when placed on their bridges.

Airborne Displays

Airborne displays allow aircraft operators to monitor and control monitoring software and instrumentation in high resolution. They must withstand flight challenges, including high altitudes and speeds, weather, environmental conditions, and changes in lighting.

Ground Control Displays

Ground control displays in military computer equipment provide remote and integrated support for reconnaissance and weapon control. They can also support tactical operations with mobile solutions.

Military-Grade Keyboards

Military keyboards have different requirements than conventional keyboards to meet the requirements of military applications. Military keyboards require higher build qualities and use an ergonomic trackball on the side of the keyboard to navigate screens and select commands with ease. Certain keyboards may include a touchpad or micro joysticks instead of a trackball.

Learn More About Military Computers

Military applications require durable, rugged, high-performance computers and components meeting strict military standards. Military computer equipment must function in extreme temperatures and withstand prolonged sun exposure, rain and water, shock, and vibration.

Daisy Data Displays is an ISO 9001-certified computer systems and component manufacturer specializing in industrial and military-grade products. We have over 40 years of experience designing and engineering computer equipment in the USA. Our Pennsylvania manufacturing facility produces computers and components that meet military standards. Our equipment also meets Class I, II, and III, Division 2, Group A-D, F&G standards and complies with NEMA 1, 4, and 4X. Contact us or request a quote to speak with a specialist from our team about the military computer solution for your application.

Daisy Data Displays Teams Up with Rep Technology: Enhancing Industrial Computing Solutions

In a strategic move aimed at expanding its reach and strengthening its market presence, Daisy has recently announced its collaboration with Rep Technology, a renowned name in the field of technical sales representation and system design. This partnership is poised to bring about exciting developments in the realm of industrial computing, promising innovative solutions to customers across various industries.

A New Partnership for Enhanced Industrial Computing Solutions

Daisy, a pioneer in providing rugged and reliable display solutions, has taken a significant step forward by partnering with Rep Technology. With a reputation for delivering technical sales representation and system design services to leading industrial computing manufacturers, Rep Technology is set to add tremendous value to Daisy’s customer offerings.

Focusing on Value Addition and Business Growth

The heart of this collaboration lies in the shared commitment to providing solutions that enhance customer experiences and offer tangible value. Rep Technology is known for its approach of partnering with manufacturers that can augment the end customer’s solution. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with Daisy’s dedication to providing top-notch, innovative solutions in the rugged display market.
A central objective of this partnership is to generate new business opportunities while delivering unparalleled technical consulting to customers. By leveraging their expertise in board and system level Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products, Daisy and Rep Technology are poised to create synergies that empower customers to make informed decisions and adopt cutting-edge solutions.

A Board Spectrum of Markets

One of the key strengths of Rep Technology lies in its ability to cater to a diverse array of industries. Their focus on military, aerospace, medical, industrial, transportation, and homeland security markets perfectly aligns with Daisy’s objectives. This collaboration will enable both companies to address the unique challenges and demands of these sectors by leveraging their collective experience and technical prowess.

Complete Coverage of the Southeast Region

Rep Technology’s well-established inside and outside technical sales team ensures comprehensive coverage of the Southeast region. This not only facilitates enhanced customer engagement but also paves the way for seamless implementation of industrial computing solutions. Daisy’s cutting-edge products, combined with Rep Technology’s local presence, are set to create a dynamic synergy that benefits customers throughout the region.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Industrial Computing Solutions

The partnership between Daisy and Rep Technology is a promising endeavor that holds immense potential. As these two industry leaders join forces, customers can anticipate a wealth of benefits, including innovative solutions, superior technical consultation, and anticipate a wealth of benefits, including innovative solutions, superior technical consultation, and enhanced access to state-of-the-art industrial computing technologies.
With a shared commitment to customer satisfaction, business growth, and technical excellence, Daisy and Rep Technology are well-poised to shape the future of industrial computing solutions. As markets evolve and technology advances, this partnership is set to stand as a beacon of innovation and customer-centricity.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Daisy and Rep Technology marks a significant milestone in the world of industrial computing. With a focus on value addition, customer solutions, and business growth, this partnership is set to usher in a new era of possibilities for industries across the Southeast.

What Are Rugged Industrial Computers?

Traditional computers are sufficient for consumers as well as many commercial and industrial businesses for everyday tasks. However, it takes a tougher computer to handle complex operations dependably in harsh conditions, fluctuating weather, outdoor environments, and more. Rugged computing allows sectors ranging from general manufacturing to military and marine to manage machinery, operations, facilities, and workforces on reliable, durable devices. Learn more about rugged computers, their advantages, and the varied applications to which they’re well-suited.

What Are Rugged Computers?

Rugged computers are specially designed to perform mission-critical functions and withstand harsh conditions that standard, consumer-grade versions cannot. Typically lightweight, they give you the ability to transport them and work, monitor operations, and send communications in the field.

These robust computers share the same general components as traditional computers, such as processors, GPU, storage, and memory. However, rugged computers also feature reinforced casings, sealed metal enclosures, long battery life, cooling and heatsink features, and more to promote better durability and reliable performance.

Benefits of Rugged Computers

Using rugged PCs offers an array of benefits to an operation, including:

• Optimized design. The way in which developers and manufacturers design rugged computers gives them a stronger framework than your standard laptop or desktop. They undergo testing to ensure that they can maintain performance through abrasion, shock, vibration, fluctuating temperatures and pressures, moisture, dust, corrosive environments, and other such challenges.
• Durability and reliability. Rugged computers can withstand harsh locales ranging from the manufacturing floor to the battlefield without shutting down or incurring damage. Even with rough use, they provide lasting performance in mission-critical projects with less downtime and fewer repair needs or associated costs.
• Versatility. These computers come in different forms, including laptops, tablets, and rack-mounted systems. Their light weight allows for flexible use and movement in varied operations. Their support features, such as built-in GPS and wireless connection, pair portability and convenience with high functionality.
• Clear display. High-bright screens for rugged computers have an anti-reflective coating for sunlight readability that prevents glare during the day and backlighting for nighttime or poorly lit locations. This enables them to provide a clear display and good picture quality even in suboptimal conditions.
• Cost-effectiveness. Their durability, long lifespan, repairability, reliability, and ability to be upgraded guarantee a lower total cost of ownership and a higher return on investment in the long run.

Industrial Applications of Rugged Computers

Rugged computers are beneficial to diverse industrial sectors.

Pharmaceutical Processing

Pharmaceutical processing systems utilize rugged computing in the form of industrial human interface systems (HMIs). These systems allow operators to monitor and manage automated machinery and processes on- or off-site, giving them maximum flexibility and control. To function effectively in pharmaceutical environments, these rugged systems feature glove-friendly, high-definition touch screens, antibacterial membrane keyboards, and sealed enclosures to safeguard against everything from dirt, dust, and liquids to bacteria. HMIs can also handle cleaning chemicals without degrading them.

Oil and Gas

The oil and natural gas exploration sector often involves harsh environments that are ideal for rugged computers and the dependability they offer. They can withstand vibration and impact, extreme or fluctuating temperatures, chemical exposure, UV rays, salt water, and more, all while maintaining full functionality. Rugged computers can assist in processes ranging from initial oil and petroleum extraction to material processing and distribution in downstream, midstream, and upstream applications.

Manufacturing

As they’re well-suited to industrial environments, ruggedized computers help streamline a variety of manufacturing processes successfully. They allow you to program and monitor automated operations and robotic work cells by creating a direct connection between a machine and your PC. They also enable labor and plant management by facilitating time tracking and scheduling, assigning duties, generating digital reports, and carrying out safety or compliance checks.

Automotive

For companies dealing with vehicle manufacturing and assembly, rugged computers can assist with vehicle testing, preparing Electronic Vehicle Health Check (EVHC) reports, and conducting computer-based diagnostics. You can also use them for smart AI planning to digitize tasks for greater speed and accuracy compared to manual, paper-based planning systems. For example, within cars themselves, police use rugged computers in their patrol cars for in-the-field work.

Construction

Rugged computers are ideal for managing construction site activities because they’re designed to withstand shocks, vibration, dust, and debris, all of which are common in construction environments. You can use them for site inspections, surveys, on-site calculations, and project management without the risk of damage and information loss.

Military

Ruggedized computers are also crucial in modern military operations. The military uses them to monitor and manage base stations, coordinate field deployments, navigate for the Coast Guard, and facilitate flight line maintenance, among other operations. On the battlefield, rugged military computers help soldiers access critical information, communicate with commanders, and execute complex tasks while on the move. Other beneficial features for military applications include MIL-SPEC-rated rugged industrial computers and EMI protection.

Other Common Industries

Other common industries in which rugged computers excel include:

• Original equipment manufacturing
• Maritime
• Mining
• Wind and solar energy farming

Why Daisy Data Displays?

Rugged computers play a significant role in ensuring efficiency and reliability for industries with challenging operating conditions. At Daisy Data Displays, our rugged computers are part of our extensive line of industrial computer and display solutions for diverse industrial sectors. Our engineering and production teams are backed by over four decades of company experience in designing, manufacturing, and testing to ensure long-lasting performance and high quality in our FM, cFM, IECeX, UL, and NEMA products. We also have a talented technician team to support you with on-site maintenance nationwide. Contact us for more information on the right rugged computer for your business, or request a quote today.

Comparing Membrane to Elastomer Keyboards

Daisy Data Displays manufactures durable industrial displays and computer solutions. Organizations across numerous industries trust us to produce custom and standard solutions to perform in harsh environments and specialized applications. Our products are rated per NEMA 1, NEMA 4, and NEMA 4X, along with Class I, Class II, Class III, Division 2, Group A-D, and F&G standards. We also meet military specifications and ratings as needed. Daisy Data Displays can provide the appropriately designed, ruggedized, and specialized computer solution to meet the unique needs of your industrial application. Our rugged computers, peripherals, and displays are designed to meet your cost, reliability, and environmental specifications.

Discover the differences between membrane keyboards and elastomer keyboards to determine the right fit for your application.

Membrane Keyboard Overview

A membrane keyboard uses a pressure pad that forces together two metal contacts when a user actuates it, closing the switch that connects to the keyboard circuitry and registering the command or input.

The keyboard’s structure consists of multiple layers of material. The top membrane layer is a plastic or rubber material that the user touches when pressing the keypad. The pressure pad underneath is a flexible and thin layer of plastic or rubber with conductive traces printed on its backside. Under that is the hole layer, which is a separator between the pressure pad and the bottom layer, preventing mechanical contact when the user is not pressing the key. The bottom membrane layer features printed conductive traces that connect to the circuit of the keyboard.

Customers can choose membrane keyboards with a flat-type or dome-type switch. While the flat switch does not give the user tactile feedback when actuated, the dome switch does. The dome switches also contain icons or characters printed on the surface.

The benefits of membrane keyboards include:

• Ideal for light- to medium-duty applications
• Affordable yet high quality
• Low noise production when used
• Portable, compact, and lightweight
• Custom vibration, light, or sound can provide tactile feedback
• Requires little pressure to activate
• Options include: dome-switch, scissors-switch, full-travel, and chiclet keys

Daisy Data Displays offers two types of membrane keyboard products. Our 6900 Series is our 109-key industrial membrane keyboard designed to offer reliable performance in hazardous or industrial applications. It can be panel or desk mounted, has embossed key borders and tactile feedback to facilitate ease of use, and offers an optional integrated pointing device.

The Daisy Data Displays 6950 Series is our industrial membrane keyboard and trackball designed for industrial applications. It can be decontaminated for safety and can be panel or desk mounted. The 6950 Series’ membrane withstands many solvents and features collapsible dome-switch keys with embossed key borders for easy use.

Elastomer Keyboard Overview

Elastomer keyboards rely on a conductive elastomer material. When pressed, a conductive pill contact on the underside of the key touches the PCB contact directly below the keypad, completing the circuit. The key automatically pops back up when the user releases it. Instead of individual keys, the structure is comprised of a single piece of flexible silicone webbing. The conductive elastomer buttons include a rubber pad, silicone keys, button web, conductive printed ink, and conductive carbon or metal pills.

The benefits of elastomer keyboards include the following:

• Nearly limitless useful service life
• Simple structure
• Durability
• Prevents harsh elements, water, dirt, and dust from entering the device
• Cost-effective

Daisy Data Displays offers the 6800 Series 109-key rugged elastomer keyboard, designed to perform in industrial applications and hazardous conditions. It offers an optional integrated pointing device and can be panel or desk mounted. The keyboard also features a built-in static shield.

Comparison

The primary difference between elastomer and membrane keyboard options is the simplified design of the membrane keyboard. The elastomer keyboard offers improved durability due to its protective silicone layer that prevents damage in harsh conditions and environments. Ultimately, elastomer and membrane keyboards are both cost-effective solutions for their respective industrial applications.

Why Daisy Data Displays?

Daisy Data Displays is a trusted leader in manufacturing durable and long-lasting display and computer solutions for industrial applications. We can produce the ideal ruggedized computer solution to meet the unique specifications of your industrial application. Our products meet various standards, including Mil-Spec, NEMA, and other industry standards. Browse our selection of keyboards or request a quote to find the right solution for your application.

Latest in Process Control & Automation Technology – 42” Industrial Touchscreen Computer

Introducing the latest in large format industrial technology for process control and automation — the 42” Industrial Computer.

Daisy is expanding its product lines to include a 42” high definition LCD size to meet the growing needs for large format displays with increased viewing capabilities. Designed to meet NEMA 4X and IP64 ratings, the 42” industrial technology makes monitoring and controlling automation machinery and line performance both easily accessible and viewable by mounting in directly on factory floor. Industries that will benefit from large format industrial computers are chemical, food, pharmaceutical and paint processing facilities.

Meticulously designed to offer superb viewing quality, the 42” high definition LCD screen features up to 1920×1080 screen resolution in 16:9 format. To allow additional control and access, the large-format industrial PC can be further customizable with an i7 processor a multi-touch projective capacitive shatterproof touch screen (operable with thin gloves).

With this industrial technology, operators working in highly sterile environments are no longer restricted to small screen sizes or remote access of machinery and performance. They can now control and monitor performance of machinery directly on the production floor, without compromising the integrity of the computer, machine, processes or facilities. The improved visibility and operability over production line performance translates in increased efficiency, performance and production.

Daisy’s 4150AA series is the first product line to feature the extra-large design in NEMA 4X/IP64 rated durable, aseptic industrial technology. This extra-large industrial PC operates safely and efficiently in processing facilities giving operators unprecedented viewing capabilities of the robust dashboards generated from automation software; viewing critical operational data and control machinery directly on the factory floor.

The 42” Industrial Computer is the latest in Daisy’s continued R&D focus in developing industrial technology solutions for process automation. Its launch is part of Daisy’s strategic plan focused on expanding product lines and offer technology to further streamline production processes. With the unique ability to offer custom solutions, industries such as the food and pharmaceutical processing look to Daisy to develop industrial technology to increase production, decrease downtime and overhead translating to better output and margins.

Daisy’s large format industrial technology can also be designed, tested and rated to streamline upstream and midstream processes in the oil and gas industry; as well as potential to serve our military in mission critical operations.

Features of Military Computers and Displays

To best serve the US Military, Navy and Coast Guard, rugged military computers and monitors are engineered to withstand extremes of noise, shock, and vibrations and require low-power consumption to increase reliability without the use of an external cooling fan.

Military Ratings and Military Specs

Daisy’s rugged military computers and displays meet a variety of military standards (MIL-STD) that outline the uniformed engineering and technical requirements established by the military (ranging from interface, design, manufacturing and testing standards.

• MIL-STD-167 describes the environmental vibration testing of shipboard equipment and balancing shipboard rotating equipment subjected to internally induced vibration during operation – approved by the US Navy.
• EMI MIL-STD-461E (a combination of MIL-STD-461D and MIL-STD-462) outlines requirements for the control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) emissions and susceptibility characteristics of electronic, electrical, and electromechanical equipment and subsystems designed or procured for use by activities and agencies of the Department of Defense (DoD).
• MIL-STD-810 requires that military equipment’s environmental design and testing was tailored to the conditions that it will experience throughout its service life, and exposed to chamber test methods that replicate the effects of environments on the equipment rather than imitating the environments themselves.
• MIL-S-901D, Grade A Shock and Vibe covers shock testing requirements for ship board machinery, equipment, systems, and structures, excluding submarine pressure hull penetrations – to ensure the equipment can withstand shock loadings, which may be incurred during wartime service due to the effects of nuclear or conventional weapons.

• MIL Standard 740-1 Airborne Noise, more recently updated to MIL Standard 1474E specifies the maximum permissible noise levels produced by military systems and the test requirements for measuring these levels to minimize noise-induced hearing loss, promote personnel safety, permit intelligible speech in noisy environments, and minimize acoustic detection and recognition by the adversary while improving warfighters’ overall performance.

Case Study: Daisy Data’s Military Computers

Daisy Data’s military computer monitors can be found in the US Coast Guard’s Lockheed c-130 aircraft. Our military-grade displays are equipped with our exclusive night-vision imaging system (NVIS) technology, which allows for excellent readability in all degrees of light. These NVIS military displays needed to provide enhanced light/dark readability so the planes’ two-person crews could use onboard digital avionics and sophisticated navigation systems in both daylight and while wearing night vision goggles.

Features of Hazardous Computers for Chemical Industries

Hazardous PCs must be properly sealed and shielded to prevent anything from getting in or out and properly filter any air or other coolants required. This ensures that the hazardous workstations limit material interactions and work hard to prevent any sample contamination.

They also feature a NEMA 4X rated enclosure that resists a wide range of chemicals, substances and environmental shifts during multiple chemical usage and production phases. With specialized coatings that limit reactions and allow for quick cleaning, the hazardous computer is resistant to acids used in everyday operations.

Ratings for Hazardous Computers Used in Chemical Processing

Chemical operations require either FM Approved Division 1 or Division 2, Zone 2 rated hazardous computer workstations. You can learn more about the Division 1 ratings and Division 2, Zone 2 ratings here.

Features of Industrial Computers for Manufacturing

Industrial computers commonly used in manufacturing facilities have unique design features that optimize space, power and workflow. Designed to control manufacturing equipment and systems, industrial PCs are built with few moving parts that withstand impact common in the manufacturing process.  

These industrial PCs can support off-site access by using KVM extender systems, allowing components to be installed on the factory floor and operated from 32,000 feet away.

For on site experience, the large, flat panel technology, available in up to 24” displays can be utilized in a variety of lighting conditions. These industrial displays do not require internal fans so they take up less space and power.

Ratings for Industrial Computers in Manufacturing

Industrial computers used in manufacturing operations are designed for Division 2, ATEX Zone 2 rated environment where the risk of ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, vapors or liquids are only common in abnormal operating conditions. They are housed in NEMA 4X rated enclosures, meaning it can tolerate the dirt, debris, chemicals and water common in manufacturing facilities.