Panel PCs are often the perfect computers for most industrial settings, combining ease of use with durability and a small form factor. Our SP series Panel PCs are perfectly optimized for these use cases, thanks to their efficient cooling and sturdy build. Here is an overview.

Why a Panel PC?

Before we delve into what makes the SP series so good, let’s take a moment to ask why even is a Panel PC preferable to a standard computer with a display.

The main reason is that a Panel PC is easier to use and maintain. A touch screen is obviously more intuitive than a keyboard-mouse setup, and the removal of multiple peripherals means there is less chance of breakdowns that require these peripherals to be replaced.

This compact form factor also means that a panel PC can be installed in almost any location, requiring very little room and functioning very well with fanless cooling. And with the right model, you can get a rugged panel that can take a shock or two and keep on going.

SP Series Multitouch Panel PC – Rugged and Powerful Industrial Option

The main features you are looking for in an Industrial Panel PC are fanless cooling, rugged chassis, and excellent performance. The SP series ticks all of these boxes.

Built on the Intel Elkhart Lake Platform, the panel PC uses a Celeron J6412 quad-core CPU. Combined with up to 32GB of DDR4 memory, it gives sufficient performance for any industrial application.

In terms of durability, the chassis is built with a light aluminum alloy, which not only ensures it can stand up to physical impacts but also gives it improved heat dissipation capability. The panel itself is rated IP66, denoting its immunity from even pressurized jets of water. This is important as many industrial premises (like pharmaceutical or food processing) are cleaned with water hoses, which the panel can withstand easily.

And despite being a panel PC, the system does not lack I/O options either. It supports SATA, USB, RS232, M.2, and even a Mini-PCIe slot for connecting peripherals and extending its functionality. Optional speakers can also be chosen if your application requires audio feedback

Capacitive or Resistive?

All SP series panels are virtually identical in most technical specifications, with the only difference between the models being screen size and the type of touch technology.

You may have already seen the terms resistive and capacitive when buying smartphones, and they mean the same thing here. Resistive touch screens work by detecting pressure, while capacitive touch screens detect the conductivity of the human skin (or stylus). While capacitive touch screens are always preferred in smartphones, there is a case to be made for both technologies in an industrial setting.

This is because capacitive touch screens, while being more responsive, generally don’t work if the user is wearing rubber gloves or any such insulating material. But since resistive touch screens only detect pressure, they can still function in these scenarios. As a result, resistive touchscreens are useful in settings where the workers are expected to be wearing protective clothing. You can easily tell which type of touch technology is employed in a particular SP series tablet by looking at its model number: R denotes resistive while C denotes capacitive.

Does Screen Size Matter?

Once you have decided on the touch technology you prefer, the only thing remaining is to pick a screen size. The dimensions range from 12-inch to 21-inch screens, giving you a wide variety of screen sizes to cater to any need.

If you don’t have any particular requirements, then it is a good idea to go for a larger screen size. Generally speaking, larger touch displays are easier to use and boast of a higher resolution. But this depends on where the PC is to be installed as well.

For cramped locations that cannot accommodate a larger panel, going for the smaller 15-inch or 12-inch sizes might be better. Smaller screen sizes are also cheaper, so this is the budget-friendly option as well.

Are the SP Series Panel PCs Worth it?

Thanks to their lean form factor and intuitive touchscreen interface, panel PCs are the preferred choice in most industrial applications. The SP series is specially optimized for high-intensity workloads and comes with all the features that help it perform well in such environments.

As a result, it works well in automation, warehousing, and manufacturing, not to mention healthcare or pharmaceutical industries. Its waterproof rating and sturdy aluminum chassis also ensure it is durable enough for the most demanding industrial spaces.

And thanks to the wide variety of screen sizes available, you can find the perfect SP series panel that fits your use case.