How Embedded Computer Systems in the Industrial Field Are Changing Manufacturing As We Know It

Though you may not realize it, embedded computer systems exist in many facets of our everyday lives and work. An embedded computer system is any special-purpose system that is fully enclosed. Whereas a general computer system may perform a variety of tasks with many options for adds on and integration with other systems, embedded computer systems fulfill one singular, focused task. This means that they can be designed in order to best fulfill their singular purpose, without the need for flexibility or additional functional abilities.

An embedded system is a small, focused computer designed to perform one function. The systems are often equipped with real-time computing constrained, which allows it to operate within a larger system. These small systems act as a part of a larger system to perform a more complicated function. While a single embedded computer may perform just one task, many together may act as part of a total system to perform a complicated task or function.

Rather than being operated by use of keyboard, buttons, or touch screens, embedded computer systems operate through sensors, actuators, and other modes of communication. They are designed to run on their own, without the need for human interaction.

Everyday examples of embedded computer systems include cell phones, ATMs, printers, thermostats, and even video game systems. But the list becomes much longer when one considers the many different embedded computer systems in use in manufacturing and industrial spaces.

In factories and industrial plants, the use of embedded computer systems is widely spread. They are used for a variety of automated manufacturing tasks within the industrial and manufacturing industry. They may help to operate machinery used in production, move assembly lines, communicate changes in the system to a computer that interacts directly with supervisors, and more. They can also be used to monitor conditions, such as temperature and moisture levels, in sensitive industrial environments where the product quality is easily compromised. For instance, in a factory that deals in wood materials which produce lots of dust, having a computer system that is exposed to the elements can quickly lead to malfunction. An enclosed computer without a fan helps to lock out dust, water, and more.

Embedded computer systems, like any technology that performs a vital function as a part of a larger system, come with their own set of drawbacks. If an embedded system is not designed to withstand harsh conditions, failure is likely to occur. While the task being completed by the embedded computer may be simple, the computer must have the processing power necessary to complete the task repeatedly, without risk for failure. To combat these problems, the embedded computer must be high-power as well as rugged.

Cybernet’s industrial embedded computers offer both high level performance and a rugged design. They can be used to fulfill a variety of positions, including data computing, remote monitoring, and more. These computers are fan less, which reduces the risk of failure due to dust that might be present. They are also sealed, to lock out moisture, debris, and anything else that a factory or industrial plant can send their way. Finally, their noiseless design makes them ideal for use in any space.