Infinity P4-A Panel PC Works In Harsh Environments

DSM Computer has unveiled an additional Infinity P4-A panel PC, which, thanks to its IP65 front, is suitable for use in harsh environments. The modular and fan-free construction of the Infinity P4-A permits a range of possible applications and offers an expandable and cost-saving alternative to traditional panel-PC systems. The Vesa assembly arm allows the P4-A standalone system to be integrated quickly and easily, according to the company.

The arm makes the system particularly suitable for building automation applications, for visualisation tasks with point-of-interest/point-of-sale applications, for machine and plant control and for logistics and transport management. The development of the P4-A system involved particular attention to low heat loss. This is achieved through the use of the Intel Atom N270 processor with the Intel 82945GSE chipset and the ICH7M Southbridge. The processor is clocked with 1.6GHz.

The thermal design power (TDP) of the Intel Atom N270 consumes just 2.5W and less than 50 per cent of expensive ultra-low-voltage (ULV) processors. The integrated 1Gb main memory can be expanded to a maximum of 2Gb. To further reduce power consumption, the 38cm (15in) Infinity P4-A panel system uses a light-emitting-diode (LED) backlight. This allows the display computer with specified 250cd/m to consume up to 20 per cent less power compared with traditional computers. Thanks to the CCFL backlight, the service life at low temperatures is higher than for normal CCFL display solutions.

The panel computer also has an energy-efficient power supply. A 115-230VAC power pack is integrated in the system with a 24VDC power supply available as an option for the user. The Infinity P4-A provides an internal mini-PCI Express slot and a maximum of two PCI slots for various plug-in cards. Interfaces such as eight USB 2.0 (two of which are on the front panel), two local-area networks (LANs) and one audio are accessible from the rear of the computer. The input and control of the panel PC is made using the ELO touch function.

The system already contains a 2.5in (6.4cm) hard disk for data storage. An optional solid-state drive and a Compact Flash slot can be installed. The system is designed for operation in the 0-45C temperature range (+50C with fan). DSM ensures the long-term availability of the panel system for four years. The computer is subjected to a burn-in test for at least 48 hours and is delivered with a two-year guarantee.

ITT Fibre-Optic Connectors Suit Harsh Environments

ITT Interconnect Solutions has launched the PHD 38999 range of fibre-optic connectors. According to the company, this interconnect system is suitable for harsh environments that could group multiple fibre-optic terminations in a rugged circular connector profile with precision alignment and optical performance features. Initially developed for high-speed backplane systems for telecommunications switching, the PHD termination and connector system delivers a high-density package with good optical signal transmission performance, according to the company.

Providing a common solution for all fibre sizes, ITT-ICS also designed the PHD system for packaging flexibility, making it suitable for many Mil Spec and standard connector envelopes - both circular and rectangular. The PHD product range is available as complete, custom, fibre-optic cable assemblies. Suitable for demanding harsh-environment applications, including defence, avionics and tactical communications, PHD metal connectors are compatible with M38999 outside dimensions and feature an all-metallic back shell with a sealing grommet and a removable alignment insert assembly. Sizes 20, 24, 28 and 36 are available and a shielding kit is included.