Introduction
Small Form Factor (SFF) computers are compact and rugged systems specifically designed to withstand harsh and constrained environments. Developed and manufactured to meet the demands of sectors where traditional electronic equipment would face issues in terms of performance, size, reliability, and functionality due to extreme conditions, these computers are used in military, industrial, or rugged field applications. In our terminology, these systems are considered "SWaP" (Size, Weight, and Power) compatible.
Indeed, their main advantages lie in their small size and weight, which Indeed, which give them the ability to fit into tight spaces while offering high performance. Although their design is compact, these systems are rigorously engineered and tested to resist shocks, vibrations, dust, water, and extreme temperatures. Most models meet military environmental standards such as MIL-STD-810G and DO-160.
These systems are offered in various configurations, with notable differences:
- Processing cores: These depend on the user's specific needs, such as expected performance, applications (HPEC, image processing, AI), and software. ARM processors, Intel processors, NVIDIA GPUs, and AMD or Altera FPGAs are commonly used in these fields.
- Cooling: Some models are fanless, which helps reduce risks related to dust and debris while meeting strict noise level requirements. These systems are often equipped with SSDs (Solid State Drives) in order to improve reliability and read/write speeds.
- Connectivity options: Via specific connectors such as Mil-38999, M12, classic interfaces like USB ports, Ethernet, and HDMI are typically available on these rugged SFF computers.
In addition to their compactness and robustness, these computers are also energy-efficient, which is crucial for use in remote areas where power supply can be a challenge. Thanks to recent advancements in the semiconductor industry regarding processing power and miniaturization, these systems can now handle complex tasks such as data analysis, artificial intelligence, image processing, as well as communications and control of systems in "hostile" environments.
Less Rugged Industrial Versions with Equal Utility for Demanding Applications
Small Form Factor (SFF) rugged computers also represent a solution for demanding industries seeking reliability, efficiency, and cyber-security. Their versatility, ruggedness, and excellent performance-to-energy consumption ratio make them a serious, even indispensable, alternative for those working in harsh environments.
SFF industrial computers are compact, efficient, and versatile, tailored for demanding industrial conditions.
They are used in automation, robotics, IoT systems, process control, as well as in military applications (command centers, ships, etc.). These systems are housed in reinforced enclosures that protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures, and can be installed in restricted spaces.
They share the same advantages as rugged computers: low energy consumption, high processing capabilities, great configuration flexibility, and advanced network interfaces with industrial communication protocols. Their scalability allow them to meet specific needs, offering a reliable solution for modern industrial applications. These computers are essential for optimizing operations, reducing clutter, and ensuring reliability and performance.
Whether rugged or not, SFF computers meet the complex requirements of numerous applications requiring a small footprint, especially in autonomous vehicles. They are widely used in military, civil defense, agricultural, scientific, and various other industrial sectors. Designed to withstand severe storage and usage conditions, these computers also benefit from quality tracking, long-term durability, and support services tailored to the specific needs of industrial, aerospace, and defense applications.
To meet all of these needs and the strict requirements of its clients, Ecrin Systems offers a comprehensive range of customizable small form factor computers that are continuously evolving.
Rugged mission computers: TOPAZE, ONYX, microONYX, nanoONYX
Industrial PCs/Servers: myOPALE range To respond to a rapidly growing market, the company continues to enrich and adapt its offerings.