Panel PC industriales

What are panel PCs and what are they used for in industry?

Panel PCs (Panel PC) are integrated all-in-one devices in which the display and the computing unit form a single, compact design adapted for work in industrial environments. Panel PCs are used as operator workstations, visualization terminals, and interfaces for operating machines and technological processes.

In automation, panel PCs often operate as HMI/SCADA interfaces on production lines, in maintenance systems, and for process monitoring. Thanks to their rugged design, panel or VESA mounting options, and stable 24/7 operation, they perform where a standard office PC does not meet environmental requirements.

Depending on your application, you can quickly jump to solutions: computers with an IP65-rated front and stainless steel panel PCs .

Industrial panel PCs – how do they differ from office PCs?

Industrial panel PCs are designed for continuous operation and resistance to the conditions found in production plants. Differences compared to office PCs include, among others, mechanical design, front sealing, resistance to vibration and dust, as well as mounting and on-site servicing options.

• Sealing: selecting the front to match real risks (dust, splashes, washdown).
• Stable 24/7 operation: configurations for long, uninterrupted duty.
• Environmental resistance: better tolerance of temperature, vibration, and intensive use.
• Industrial mounting: panel, VESA, operator arm – ergonomics and serviceability.

This translates into fewer failures and downtime, and predictable operation of operator workstations over the long term.

Industrial touchscreen panel PCs – key features

Industrial touchscreen panel PCs make process operation easier, shorten operator response time, and improve diagnostics. In industrial applications, the most important factors are: visualization readability, front durability, and selecting interfaces for integration with automation systems and peripheral devices.

In projects where workstations operate in harsh environments, it is crucial to match the sealing level, enclosure material, and cleaning method to the plant’s requirements. This helps you avoid compromises that later cause downtime or costly modifications.

Touch panel PCs – screen technologies and operation

Touch panel PCs are selected based on how operators work (including with gloves), workstation conditions, and usage intensity. In practice, not only the touch technology matters, but also the front’s resistance to scratches and cleaning agents.

• Capacitive touchscreen: high sensitivity and comfortable operation in typical operator applications.
• Resistive touchscreen: reliable operation in specific conditions (e.g., gloves, contamination).
• Protective glass: selection based on mechanical/chemical resistance and hygiene.

Key parameters of panel PCs in automation

• Screen size and resolution – matched to viewing distance and visualization type.
• Sealing and enclosure – selection for dust, moisture, washdown, chemicals.
• CPU / RAM / SSD – smooth operation of operator applications and data logging.
• Interfaces – integration with automation and peripherals.
• Temperature range – operation in halls without air conditioning or in cold zones.
• Mounting method – panel, VESA, arm – ergonomics and serviceability.

How to choose panel PCs for industry?

Selecting panel PCs should depend on environmental conditions, duty intensity, and application requirements. Key factors include: IP protection rating, operating temperature range, CPU performance, RAM size, touchscreen type, and available communication interfaces (Ethernet, RS485, USB, CAN).

In production environments, the ability to run 24/7, vibration resistance, and easy installation (panel, VESA, operator arm) are especially important. For HMI/SCADA applications, also consider compatibility with the operating system and visualization software.

Panel PCs IP65 or IP69K – which to choose?

The choice between IP65 and IP69K depends on the working environment. Panel PCs with IP65 protection are resistant to dust and pressurized water jets, which is sufficient for most industrial applications.

IP69K is intended for zones that require intensive washdown, such as the food or pharmaceutical industry. It provides the highest level of sealing and resistance to high pressure and water temperature.

Panel PCs 10”, 15”, 19”, 21” – which size?

The size of panel PCs should be matched to the operator’s distance from the workstation and the amount of data displayed. 10”–12” models work well for simple visualizations and compact machines.

15”–19” screens are a universal solution for most production lines, while 21” and larger are recommended for applications that require advanced HMI interfaces, data analysis, or multi-window work.

Panel PCs – frequently asked questions