Features of Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Computers

Hazardous computers and monitors feature an aseptic wash-down design with chemical-resistant safety glass to withstand corrosive chemicals and other substances used to thoroughly clean equipment. The large flat panel display can be easily seen in wide range of light conditions and reduce power requirements, eliminating the need for external cooling systems.

Accessories for Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Computers

Some food and pharmaceutical applications require hazardous computers with either attached or built-in purge controls to reduce hazards to an unclassified level. There are three types of purge controls available for hazardous PCs.

Hazardous computers can also be installed up to 32,000 feet away from the hazardous display and input devices by utilizing a KVM extender system. The KVM extender allows you to further customize the industrial computer solution to your needs.

Ratings for Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Computers

Industrial and hazardous computers rated for Division 1 and Division 2, Zone 2 environments. They are housed in NEMA 4X rated enclosures, meaning it can tolerate the dirt, debris, chemicals and water common in food processing and pharmaceutical facilities.

Features of Rugged PCs for Oil and Gas

Rugged computers used in the oil industry must operate efficiently despite the harsh environments on outdoor work sites. To operate outside, these rugged PCs feature shatterproof touch screens that are sunlight readable. They are waterproof to NEMA 4x/IP66 standards and have a fanless design and built-in cooling systems to endure extreme temperatures (ranging from -40 to +65°c).

Rugged computers can be mounted in a variety of ways, including rack mount options and are now available in a portable design with all the same rugged features of a workstation.

Division 2, Zone 2 Ratings for Oil and Gas Computers

Rugged computers and displays are rate for Division 1 and Division 2, Zone 2 environments so they can handle the harsh environments of the oil industry. Rugged computers are also NEMA 4X environments, which means they can tolerate the dirt, debris and water common in outdoor oil and gas applications.

Uses of Rugged PCs for Oil and Gas Industry

Rugged computers help streamline operations in the oil industry. They operate without interruption and are frequently used for data acquisition, process automation, fracturing, simulation and modeling, as well as production monitoring.

Explaining Purge Controls (Type X, Type Y, Type Z)

Purge controls quickly and efficiently fill a space with compressed air or another inert gas so that hazardous or combustible compounds are quickly forced out and avoid danger. They can be manually or automatically turn on when the computer starts.  

Types of Purge Controls

Type X Purge System reduce hazards in Class 1, Division 1 environments to an unclassified level. X purge systems are fully automated and will automatically shut down if a positive pressure is lost inside the cabinet, preventing any sparks or explosions.

Daisy’s Type X hazardous-area purge control systems can be used in enclosures ranging from 1 to 70 cubic feet in size.

Type Y Purge System reduce the hazardous area classification of Class 1, Division 1 control rooms to Division 2. Y purge systems are a manual purge, often used with alarm boards to alert operators if purge has been lost inside the cabinet.

Type Z Purge System reduce the classification of a Class 1, Division 2 control room to unclassified. Daisy’s Type Z hazardous-area purge control systems can be used in enclosures up to 50 cubic feet in size and add accessories such as a conduit seal kit, over-pressure relief valve and more for added convenience.

Features of Daisy Data’s Purge Controls

Daisy Data’s purge controls come pre-assembled to facilitate easy setup and installation in your facility. Key features include a low internal pressure, built-in vent valve, flow meter and pressure gauges, and an average purge time of less than two minutes per cubic foot for Z purge systems and one minute per cubic foot for X Purge Systems.

Features of Daisy’s KVM Extenders

Keyboard-Video-Mouse (KVM) Extenders support high video resolutions at long distances. KVM Extenders over CATx transmit signals over CAT 5, CAT5e and CAT6 cables up to 1,000 feet away. Using inexpensive CATx shielded and unshielded cables, these are ideal for high-density applications requiring full use of USB keyboards, video and mice and other devices. The CATx cables carry USB, audio and VGA signals and support video mode up to 1920×1200.

KVM extenders over fiber optic cables carry DVI-D graphic interfaces in uncompressed mode up to ¼ mile away. This includes DVI-D video modes, transparent USB 1.1 protocol extension, USB 2.0 and serial and audio options. Single link DVIA support video mode up to 1920×1200 resolution. Dual link DVI supports up to 2560×2048 resolution.

KVM extenders are an industrial computer accessory that enhance efficient workflow, improved productivity and minimize replacement cost of expensive servers and rugged computers by offering remote access from industrial environments. Machine interface and data collection/monitoring are maintained while the computer is in a distant, clean, safe and dust-free environment. Daisy’s KVM extenders are compatible with all operating systems and major KVM switches.

Features of Rugged Keyboards

Rugged keyboards feature a sealed, waterproof stainless steel enclosure so they can handle the dirtiest environments. They are impervious to dust, dirt, water, oil or chemicals — the reason they are NEMA 4X rated. They can easily be washed down with industrial cleaners and chemicals to maintain a clean environment.

These industrial keyboards have minimal moving parts; a necessary design feature to tolerate harsh environments. Instead of separate keys, industrial keyboards are made of a flexible, tactile surface that operators find easy to use. They can be used separately or built into a mounted enclosure.

Industrial keyboards are most frequently used in indoor facilities that use chemicals to maintain a clean environment (i.e. food processing facilities, pharmaceutical and chemical plants) and outdoor applications, such as oil rigs.

Types of Industrial Keyboards and Pointing Devices

There are two types of rugged industrial keyboards and pointing devices that you may want to consider:

Elastomer Keyboards feature a stainless-steel enclosure, built-in static shield and full-key travel design for easy typing. These rugged keyboards are FM approved for Division 1 and Division 2 environments (Class I, II, III A-G).

Membrane Keyboards are 109 key industrial keyboards with a tactile feel, preferred by many operators. They are waterproof industrial keyboards with a sealed design that is NEMA 4X rated; impervious to many solutions, including ethanol and glycol. Membrane rugged keyboards are FM approved for Division 1 and Division 2 environments (Class I, II, III A-G).

OEM Keyboard Kits allow you to design a product to your exact specifications. Several kits are available, including elastomer and membrane keyboards in 116 or 109 key layouts.

Pointing Devices complement industrial waterproof keyboards, whether you opt to integrate them into a rugged membrane keyboard or customize them in a rugged desktop or panel mount computer. Housed in a NEMA 4x stainless-steel enclosure, they are suitable for a wide range of pharmaceutical, food processing and chemical processing environments.

Explaining Division 1 & 2, Zone 2 Rated Keyboards

Like industrial computers, industrial and rugged keyboards are rate for Division 1 and Division 2, Zone 2 environments so they can handle the harsh environments.

Industrial keyboards are also rated for NEMA 4X environments, which means they can tolerate the dirt, debris and water common in outdoor oil and gas applications, as well as the corrosive cleaning solutions in the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

What is a Network Computer?

Daisy’s industrial network computers are designed for applications where the full computing power of an industrial PC is not required. This is because a network computer operates on a network, such as the internet (thus the name Network PC). Network computers are also referred to as x-terminals because they display terminal for X Window System client applications. It has minimal memory, disk storage and processor power.

Network computers are frequently used when multiple users are all linked to a network and thus do not require as much power from each individual unit. Daisy’s industrial network PCs are designed for optimal performance and feature high resolution resistive touch screen for ease of use.

Daisy’s network computers can be mounted to best suite your application’s needs. With industrial network computers sizes ranging from 10.4” to 19” LCD displays, you can opt for panel mount, flush mount or rack mount x-terminals.

Ratings for Network Computers

Daisy’s industrial network computers have a very rugged design. They meet and exceed numerous military standards, including Mil-Std 901D, Grade A Shock; Airborne Noise MIL Standard 740-1; and EMI MIL Standard 461 and 462.

These network PCs also have a commercial off the shelf design (COTS) to maximize affordability for our military customers.

Find the Right Network Computers For Your Operation

Daisy Data’s Guide to Network Computers can offer all you need to know about finding the right industrial computer for your operation. Be sure to let us know if you have any questions, so that we can help you find exactly what you need.

Features of Industrial Monitors

Industrial monitors are available as industrial touchscreen monitors or flat-panel industrial display paired with our industrial keyboard and pointing device. Industrial touchscreen monitors are available in both capacitive or resistive technology.

Capacitive touch screen technology is best for work applications where fingers are used; no gloves or stylus. The capacitive technology is made of a very durable glass that withstands grease, dirt and water.

Resistive technology however responds to a finger, as well as a gloved finger and stylus. The plastic surface is anti-glare and can be customized for sunlight readability.

Rugged displays, with or without touch screen capabilities, can be built-in to the computer workstation or utilized separately. They can be mounted in a variety of ways – from flush mounts to pedestal arms to panel mounts. Industrial monitors can also be paired with an industrial computer on-site or utilizing a KVM extender, control the computer off-site (more common in food, pharmaceutical and chemical applications).

Explaining Division 1 & 2, Zone 2 Rated Monitors

Like industrial computers, industrial and rugged monitors are rate for Division 1 and Division 2, Zone 2 environments so they can handle the harsh environments.

Daisy Data’s industrial monitors, displays, and computers are also rated for NEMA 1, NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X environments. This means they can tolerate the dirt, debris and water common in outdoor oil and gas applications, as well as the corrosive cleaning solutions in the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Features of Rugged Industrial Computers

Industrial Computers are designed to maintain high performance operations, while withstanding the harshest environments. Each integral part of the rugged computer is designed for durability.

Industrial computers have built-in rugged monitors that are both shatterproof and sunlight readable; optimal for outdoor industrial applications. These industrial touch screen monitors can be customized paired with a built-in, fully sealed keyboard and trackballs.

The enclosures for industrial PCs are fully sealed and NEMA 4X rated. They are tough enough to tolerate drop, shocks and vibrations, chemicals, water and other liquids — and can be mounted in a variety of ways to suit your needs.

Each industry has its own needs. Oil and gas customers needs range from panel mount industrial touch screen PCs to portable rugged touch screen PCs, while food, pharmaceutical and chemical processing industries require hazardous rated HMIs that are chemical resistant, such as aseptic wash-down PCs with built-in sealed keyboards and trackballs.

Nema Ratings of Rugged PCs and Computers

Industrial PCs and rugged HMIs are rated for Division 1 and Division 2, Zone 2 environments, which means that they …

Rugged computers are also housed in NEMA 4X rated enclosures that offer exceptional protection against harsh environments. They are constructed for indoor or outdoor use and protect against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust and splashing or hose-directed water.

The easiest way to upgrade your industrial & rugged computer technology.

You’re eligible to upgrade to new industrial HMIs by trading your existing technology for a $1,200 discount towards a new Daisy unit. It’s simple. Complete the form below to arrange the return of your industrial or rugged product from Daisy or similar manufacturers* and receive your $1,200 discount. Offer valid through 12/31/2019.

1. Browse our industrial computer product lines.
2. Send your current industrial HMIs to Daisy (regardless of manufacturer).
3. Receive a $1,200 Rebate towards your purchase.

Call (717) 932-9999x or fill out the form to get started with a member of Daisy’s sales team.

*Contact us for a complete list of accepted industrial computer products. Eligible products include those manufactured by Daisy Data Displays and Eaton/Azonix.

Daisy Data’s Guide to Network Computers

You may find it difficult to understand whether you need an industrial computer for your work application, let alone the type of industrial computer and relevant specifications/technical features that can tolerate the unique elements of your work application.

For this post, we are discussing one specific type of industrial computer that is both durable and affordable – the network computer. We navigate the history, types, uses, technical specifications and design features of the network PC. We also delve into the relevant testing and ratings common to network computers; features that ensure they function well in industrial, hazardous and military applications.

HISTORY

In the 1980s, MIT developed the original network computer called the X-Terminal. The X-Terminal worked off of an x-operating system, which we still use today in military applications. The X-Windows operating system was the first that allowed you to run a program one place and display the graphics somewhere else. It remains an open standard managed by the X.Org consortium.

The thin client was then developed. Similar to the X-Terminal, the thin client is a diskless computer designed with added flash memory and software for better communication with remote desktop protocols. While the X-Terminal only runs the x-operating system, the thin client is agnostic and will run any operating system designed to connect to a remote server. This makes the x-terminal is a type of thin client, which in turn is a type of network computer.

Today, you see a variety of network computers that access data and program from a remote server or network – ranging from thick (fat) clients to thin (lean) clients – and subsets of those specific types as well.

EXPLAINING THE NETWORK COMPUTER

A network computer is also referred to as an x-terminal, thin client or even diskless computer. These all describe the same rugged computer or workstation, more or less.

To reiterate, network computer is a general term to describe a computer designed to run applications and data off of a remote network. All network computers have a client application that sends/receives data to the remote server over a network, thus the name. There are many types of network computers, which we delve into below.

Network PCs can be designed for consumer usage, however at Daisy we design and manufacture network computers that feature industrial thin client technology. Our customers in the automation, manufacturing (food processing, pharmaceutical, biotechnology) and military environments rely on thin clients because they can withstand the hazardous conditions in their facilities. In fact, our military customers most heavily rely on x-terminals.

• Thick (Fat) Client: Computer that does most of the processing independent of a remote server or network, but still requires a periodic network connection to archive information on the server.

• Thin (Lean) Client: Diskless computer with small physical footprint. It has minimal processing power and requires constant access to a remote server or network for all access to programs/data.

• X-Terminal: A thin client network computer that runs an X server; part of the X Window System client application that is a UNIX-based operating system. The X Window System allows applications to run on the remote network and transfer keystrokes and images back/forth to the local computer called the x-terminal.The title X-Terminal indicates that it is only running the X Window System, while thin clients may run similar software that is not Windows (i.e. Citrix or Microsoft’s Terminal Services).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF RUGGED NETWORK PCs

Network PCs are typically designed and manufactured with very durable materials because they are used in some of the most hazardous applications with challenging environmental abuses, such as EMI, RFI, lighting, temperature extremes, vibration and negligent maintenance.

To withstand these difficult environments, the enclosures feature rugged materials that are specifically designed to tolerate the intense shock, vibrations and range of extreme temperatures common in hazardous and military applications.

Externally, the network PCs feature a NEMA4X fully sealed, waterproof enclosure made of powder coated aircraft grade aluminum bezel or 12 Gauge Stainless Steel 304 with a resistive touch screen and fully sealed integrated keyboard and mouse; all of which are rated to handle hazardous environments.

Internally, these industrial x-terminals are diskless so they require smaller processors and few components to run data and programs efficiently. With each component possessing a rugged design and less internal components to jostle around, there is a smaller risk of damage given the tough environments they operate within.

INDUSTRIES THAT RELY ON RUGGED NETWORK PCs

Rugged network computers are used across multiple industries; each one requiring different design elements and levels of durability.

Automation: Uses of Network PCs

For the automation industry, the low replacement cost is a significant factor for the use of industrial network computers. For the food and pharmaceutical industries that rely on automation in their processing plants, computers with low processing power are necessary because there is less risk of ignition in a hazardous environment. The more processing power required for on-site operations, the more cooling devices are necessary to maintain computer function in the environment. Thus, the offsite processing power of the remote network server is beneficial to the hazardous work environment and the cost.

For food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, industrial network computers are tested and rated for specific hazardous environments. These ratings demonstrate the conditions that hazardous network PCs are designed to work efficiently in, ensuring that they are the appropriate fit for any relevant hazardous location.

• Class I, II, III, Division 2: Used throughout the United States, Division 2 describes environments where flammable liquids or gases are not likely to exist under normal operating conditions. They may be confined within closed systems and are not released as long as equipment operates properly.

• ATEX Zone 2: Used throughout the European Union (EU), ATEX Zone 2 provides the same classification as Class I, II, III, Division 2. This describes an electronic unit that can work in an environment where an explosive atmosphere of gas, vapor or mist occurs under fault conditions.

• IP65, IP66 & IP67: Applied and referenced internationally, the IP65 rating describes an electronic unit that is dust tight for up to 8 hours. It can tolerate water projected by a nozzle for up to 15 minutes.The IP66 rating describes an electronic unit that can withstand water projected in powerful jets for up to 3 minutes.

  The IP67 rated rating describes an electronic unit that can handle being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for a maximum of 30 minutes.

• NEMA 4X: Outlined for companies working in the United States, the NEMA 4 & 4X rating describes an electronic unit that is water tight (thus a sealed computer or monitor). The design protects the internal components from falling dirt or dust, as well was ingress water (rain, sleet, snow, splashing or hose directed water) and formation of ice. NEMA4 and NEMA 4X rated HMIs are used by the food and pharmaceutical industry in plants and manufacturing facilities (i.e. dairies).

Flight Simulation: Uses of Thin Clients

The flight simulation industry relies on computers with a significant amount of processing power without the bulk. Since they cannot accommodate large computers ,the thin clients or networking computers fit the bill. Given the name, they are thin in size and access a lot of the processing power from the offsite network.

Customer Example: Our industrial rack mount x-terminal (Model #7179AL) was designed to best serve the flight simulation industry. Like our other network PCs, it is incredibly durable and meets multiple military standards. This x-terminal features a high performance surface acoustic wave (SAW) touch screen that is activated by many different touch points; a design feature where the touch screen and glass are resistant to chemicals.

 Military: Uses of X-Terminals

The military uses military grade x-terminals for both security and processing reasons. By placing the networked servers in a central, safe and clean location, the military can use the military standard network computers throughout different hazardous application sites while still having quick, easy and remote access to important data.

Furthermore, if the network computer is damaged or destroyed, there is a low replacement cost and no risk of data loss or confidential data leaking. All of the important information is maintained on a secure network and the network computer does not house any information.

For military applications, network PCs meet numerous military standards (also written as MIL-STD or MIL-STANDARD) and feature a commercial off the shelf design (referred to as Mil-COTS or simply COTS). These military standards demonstrate the conditions that network PCs are designed to work in, ensuring that they are the appropriate fit for any relevant military applications.

• MIL-STD 901D, Grade A Shock: This military standard describes the extend to which shipboard equipment must be able to withstand shock loadings that may occur during mission critical operations and wartime service testing, including possible effects of nuclear or conventional weapons.
  MIL-STD 901D uses grades to further describe how necessary the equipment is to shipboard operations. In this case, grade A describes equipment that is essential to the safety and continued combat capability of the ship.
  

• EMI MIL Standard 461and 462:
  MIL-STD 461D: This military standard describes electronic units that have an acceptable level control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) emissions and susceptibility. This is a common military standard met by electronic equipment and systems designed for and used by military (including our US Coast Guard and US Navy).
  MIL-STD 462: While the MIL-STD 461D outlines the control levels of EMI standards for electronic military equipment, MIL-STD 462 further describes how EMI emissions and susceptibility should be measured and evaluated.  Since these military standards both deal with EMI emissions of military equipment, you will find that military rated network PCs typically are tested and meet these military standards.

• DO-160C: The DO-160C document outlines standards and testing procedures necessary for airborne equipment. By performing these tests, there is a level of assurance hat airborne equipment can perform in environmental conditions common in typical flight operations.Standard conditions that are typically tested include: temperature, altitude, temperature variation, humidity, shock and crash safety, vibration, explosion proofness, water proofness, fluids susceptibility, sand, dust, fungus resistance, salt, fog, magnetic effect, power input, voltage spike, audio frequency conducted susceptibility, induced signal susceptibility, RF emission and susceptibility, lightning susceptibility, icing, ESD and flammability.

• Airborne Noise MIL Standard 740-1: This military standard outlines the necessary instrumentation and procedures for measuring and analyazing the airborne sound generated by shipboard equipment. It also outlines the maximum allowing sound level for this shipboard equipment.

• COTS: These network PCs can also feature a commercial off the shelf design (also referred to as MIL-COTS or simply COTS). The advantage to x-terminals with COTs design are numerous. First, they are typically readily available and can be used out of the box. Since these units do not need to be customized, the purchaser typically saves a significant amount of time, resources and budget in purchasing a COTS designed x-terminal; cost factors that are common when customizing the unit to the work application.
  Customer Example: Our Thin Client Computer (Model 7171CA) was designed specifically for the US Coast Guard. Since it is a shipboard computer, it is an incredibly rugged with a compact design in size and weight; making it easy to mount in small spaces. This thin client features technology important for coast guard missions, including one touch switch between night/day mode and NVIS goggle compatibility.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT RUGGED NETWORK PCS

Do network PCs hold any confidential or proprietary data?

Simply put, no – the network PCs we manufacture (i.e. thin clients) do not hold any data.

Since thin clients access the processing power and data from a remote network, the data is stored on the network. If you had to send in the network computer for a repair or were interested in our upgrade program, there is no need to clean the computer of its data because it does not store anyway. Given the name, it accesses everything remotely and is simply displaying the information that is housed on the network.

This is the reason that the military relies on network PCs for its naval operations. They are rugged enough to tolerate the tough elements that naval ships endure, while relying on a remote network for the processing power and confidential data necessary for mission critical work.

How do I know if Network PC with a COTS design works for my application?

Most likely, however our sales team would know best. A quick conversation would help them determine exactly what specs are needed for a network computer to work in your application. In our experience, specifications typically required for thin clients are compliance with military standards (i.e. shock and vibe, electromagnetic interference (EMI)), range of temperature resistance, as well as design features including stainless steel enclosures and special coatings.

Is a Network PC simply a rugged display with a built in keyboard and mouse?

No. If you want to compare an industrial network PC to a consumer computer product, consider a basic computer that you use to remote desktop into your powerful computer (perhaps when working remotely into your desktop computer). The industrial network computer does the same, but can have a very rugged design that tolerates the environmental elements common in industrial, hazardous and military applications.

A regular consumer computer that can access a remote server, similar to your work laptop or even a tablet won’t work for the industries that we serve at Daisy. These network PCs are incredibly rugged; rugged enough to handle the intense elements that military ships and even chemical processing equipment endure.

What other questions do you have about network PCs?

We have been designing and manufacturing rugged network computers for more than 20 years, specializing in custom solutions for our military, manufacturing, processing and automation customers.

This means that we know a lot about thin clients (and x-terminals specifically) and are happy to connect with you to answer any additional questions you might have, ranging from basic concerns about purchasing the right product to very technical specifications related to your work environment.  Our sales team has more than 35 years of experience working with customers to identify the best rugged, hazardous or military computer.

For any questions, send Jack or Kenny a quick note and we will respond within 1 business day.