Fanless embedded computers: The Amplicon Impact-E series of embedded industrial computers are fanless (hence they run quiet and typically have higher MTBFs than systems with fans). Embedded applications often require compact rugged computers that are capable of front-end data processing and storage. Requirements for such critical applications usually can not be fulfilled using traditional air-cooled systems. These systems can not achieve the desired or necessary MTBF. The Impact-E designs uses aluminium casing, which are thermally bonded to internal heat-generating components. Ambient conditions could vary, hence this rugged embedded computer needs to withstand; a high amount of shock and vibration, wide temperature and humidity variations, reasonable levels of ambient dust and particles.

The Impact-E series comes with options of up to 2 PCI expansion slots and at present are used in a number of rail applications. As standard these come with USB ports, Dual Ethernet ports and CompactFlash and/or 2.5” hard disk drive storage. The PCI slots on the Impact-E 40 and Impact-E 50 provide expansion for use in machine control and video monitoring applications.

Powered by Intel Mobile processors, these embedded computers can provide the performance necessary for high speed and intensive tasks. The rugged compact fanless design is ideally suited to a variety of space-critical applications such as required by a variety of industries including the rail industry. These embedded computers can be used in applications with extreme temperature operation requirements, hence making them ideal for out-of-office applications.