What is an industrial PC? What does the "U" in industrial PC stand for?
Industrial control computers (ICPCs) generally refer to industrial control computers, which are a general term for tools that use a bus structure to monitor and control production processes, electromechanical equipment, and process equipment. IPCs possess important computer attributes and characteristics, such as a computer CPU, hard disk, memory, peripherals and interfaces, as well as an operating system, control network and protocols, computing power, and a user-friendly human-machine interface.
Currently, the main categories of industrial control computers are: IPC (PC bus industrial computer), PLC (programmable control system), DCS (distributed control system), FCS (fieldbus system), and CNC (numerical control system).
The standard height for industrial PCs is measured in units of U, with specific dimensions defined by the Electronic Industries Association (EIA). A standard 1U height is 1.75 inches, approximately 4.445 centimeters. Common sizes are 1U, 2U, and 4U, with each 1U representing a 4.445cm difference. A 4U chassis offers more space and ventilation, resulting in significantly better heat dissipation than the relatively cramped 2U chassis. Overheating can negatively impact chassis performance, making heat dissipation a crucial factor when choosing industrial PC and server chassis. Furthermore, a larger 4U chassis is also necessary when dealing with a large number of internal components.
Similarly, the dimensions of industrial control cabinets also adopt this common industrial standard, typically ranging from 22U to 42U. The height can be flexibly adjusted according to the elevation of the industrial control computer to accommodate server chassis, industrial control chassis, and hub equipment.
