Can Linux Be Used on Industrial Computers?
Yes. Linux can be used on industrial computers for automation, data acquisition, gateways, servers, edge computing and custom control applications.
Linux's open-source nature, flexible configuration options and ability to run on different hardware platforms are an advantage for many industrial applications. However, the right distribution and hardware configuration must be chosen.
The following topics are important on an industrial PC running Linux:
- The Linux distribution and version to be used
- CPU architecture and driver compatibility
- Ethernet, serial ports and other hardware interfaces
- Real-time operation requirements
- Security updates and long-term maintenance
- Linux support of the application software
Especially in control applications with high timing sensitivity, a standard Linux configuration should not be assumed to be sufficient. Real-time Linux or special configurations may be required.
The right choice is to make the operating system decision not only by licensing cost, but by application compatibility, maintenance needs, security and long-term support conditions.