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.