How to Prepare a Technical Requirements List Before Buying an Industrial PC?
Putting technical requirements in writing before buying an industrial PC reduces the risk of choosing the wrong product. When requirements are unclear, deciding only on the processor or the price can result in a computer that is not suited to the connections or operating conditions the application needs.
A well-prepared technical requirements list also makes it easier to compare products from different manufacturers on the same criteria.
The following headings can be used as a checklist:
| Criterion | Information to be determined |
|---|---|
| Application | HMI, SCADA, machine vision, data collection or another task |
| Software | The software to be used and its minimum system requirements |
| Processor | Required performance and compatibility |
| RAM | Required capacity and upgrade possibility |
| Storage | Capacity, type and data-write needs |
| Operating system | Version and software compatibility |
| Connections | Ethernet, USB, RS-232, RS-485, video outputs and other ports |
| Display | Number of screens, resolution and touch-use requirement |
| Mounting | Cabinet, DIN rail, desktop or rack mounting |
| Operating environment | Temperature, dust, humidity and vibration conditions |
| Protection | Required IP or IK rating and real exposure conditions |
| Continuous operation | Operating hours and tolerance for interruption |
| Support | Warranty, technical service, spare parts and product supply period |
| Future needs | Expected capacity growth and upgrade requirements |
Not every application may need all criteria. For example, the IP protection rating may not be a priority for a data analysis computer used in a desktop environment. In contrast, on a machine directly exposed to dust or water, this issue can become critical.
Once the technical requirements have been determined, different products should be compared against this list and any unmet criteria should be stated clearly.
Conclusion: A technical requirements list prepared before purchase helps determine the right product, compare offers and reduce compatibility problems that might arise later.