Industrial Motherboards Explained
18th October 2024Share This Post
Share This Post
In the rapidly advancing world of industrial computing & automation, the right hardware can make all the difference in terms of reliability, performance, and longevity. One crucial component often overlooked is the industrial motherboard—the powerhouse that runs everything from automated manufacturing systems to smart transportation networks. Unlike consumer-grade motherboards, industrial motherboards are designed for the harshest environments, where downtime is not an option. They deliver the durability, connectivity, and high-performance required for mission-critical operations.
If you’re navigating the world of industrial computing, understanding the various types of industrial motherboards available is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore what they are, explore different types, and discuss their applications. Specifically, we’ll look at three key types from MiTAC: Thin Mini-ITX, 3.5″ SBC, and 2.5″ Pico-ITX motherboards.
What is an Industrial Motherboard?
At its core, an industrial motherboard is a specialised circuit board that hosts the key components of a computer—such as the CPU, memory, storage interfaces, and input/output connectors—but is designed for use in rugged environments. These motherboards are engineered to operate in conditions like extreme temperatures, high humidity, and areas exposed to dust or vibration. Unlike their consumer counterparts, they prioritise longevity, stability, and robust performance, making them ideal for sectors such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and healthcare.
Key Features of Industrial Motherboards
Durability
Engineered for continuous operation in harsh conditions.
extended life cycles
Designed to last longer, often supported for 5-10 years or more.
Enhanced Security
Protection against external threats and failures.
Advanced Connectivity
Offering multiple I/O interfaces to connect with a variety of industrial equipment.
Now, let’s look at the specific types of industrial motherboards from MiTAC and see how each one fits into different applications.
Thin Mini-ITX: Slim, Versatile Powerhouse
MiTAC’s Thin Mini-ITX motherboards are designed for applications where space is at a premium, but performance is still a top priority. With a compact form factor of just 170mm x 170mm, these boards can fit into thin enclosures while still delivering powerful processing capabilities. They support memory configurations up to 32GB of RAM and offer multiple display outputs via current and legacy ports such as VGA, HDMI, and LVDS/eDP, making them highly versatile for a range of use cases.
Perfect for smart home hubs that require discreet hardware placement.
3.5" Single Board Computers (SBC): Compact, Reliable, and Powerful
Next up are MiTAC’s 3.5” Single Board Computers (SBCs), slightly larger than the Pico-ITX but still offering a compact solution for embedded systems. These boards, typically measuring around 146mm x 102mm, are engineered for more rugged environments where stability and consistent performance are key. Supporting up to 32GB of memory and a variety of input/output options, 3.5” SBCs are perfect for applications that need more processing power but can’t afford to take up too much physical space.
Perfect for smart home hubs that require discreet hardware placement.
2.5" Pico-ITX: Tiny but Mighty
MiTAC’s 2.5” Pico-ITX SBCs are the smallest of the lot, with a footprint of just 100mm x 72mm. Don’t let their small size fool you—these tiny boards pack a punch with up to 32GB of memory and support for 4K HDMI output, making them a go-to choice for ultra-compact embedded systems. They are particularly suited for applications where space is critically constrained, and yet processing capability cannot be compromised.
Handheld equipment
Ideal for medical handheld, or portable diagnostic tools for pipe inspection.
Future Trends in Industrial Motherboards
As industries continue to adopt advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and edge computing, industrial motherboards will play a crucial role in supporting these innovations. We can expect to see even more compact designs, enhanced connectivity (such as 5G integration), and increased processing power. These trends will push the boundaries of what’s possible in sectors like smart cities, autonomous transportation, and advanced healthcare.
Conclusion
Industrial motherboards from MiTAC, supplied by Relec Electronics’, such as Thin Mini-ITX, 3.5” SBC, and 2.5” Pico-ITX, provide a range of options to meet the varied demands of industrial applications. Whether you’re looking for a powerful, compact solution for embedded systems or need a ruggedised motherboard for harsh environments, these products offer reliable, long-term solutions. By integrating these industrial-grade components into your systems, you ensure not just performance but also durability and adaptability, equipping your business for the future.
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