Rugged SFF - Small Form Factor - Computers

In our guide, discover what a rugged SFF computer is, its key features, its benefits in extreme environments, and the criteria for choosing the right one. We’ll also explain their main applications, from military vehicles to embedded systems. Finally, you’ll see how these solutions combine compactness, durability, and performance to meet critical needs.

Small Form Factor (SFF) computers are compact, robust systems specially designed to withstand harsh and confined environments. Developed and manufactured to meet the requirements of sectors where traditional electronic equipment would have problems with operation, space, reliability and performance due to extreme conditions, these computers are used in military, industrial or difficult terrain applications. In our jargon, these systems are said to be ‘SWaP’ (Size, Weight and Power) compatible.

Their main advantages lie in their small size and weight, which allow them to be integrated into confined spaces while offering high performance. Although compact in design, these systems are rigorously designed and tested to withstand shock, vibration, dust, water and extreme temperatures. Most models comply with military environmental standards such as MIL-STD-810G and DO-160.

They depend on the specific needs of the user, particularly in terms of expected performance, applications (HPEC, image processing, AI) and software. ARM and Intel processors, NVIDIA GPUs and AMD or Altera FPGAs are commonly used in these areas.

Connectivity options via specific connectors such as Mil-38999 and M12, as well as standard interfaces such as USB, Ethernet and HDMI ports, are generally available on these ruggedised SFF computers.

Some models are fanless, which reduces the risks associated with dust and debris while meeting strict noise level requirements. These systems are often equipped with solid state drives (SSDs) to improve reliability and read/write speeds.

In addition to their compactness and robustness, these computers are also energy efficient, which is essential for use in remote areas where power supply can be a challenge. Thanks to recent advances in the semiconductor industry in terms of processing power and miniaturisation, these systems can now handle complex tasks such as data analysis, artificial intelligence, image processing, communications and system control in “hostile” environments.

Less rugged industrial versions that are equally suitable for demanding applications

Rugged Small Form Factor (SFF) computers are also a solution for demanding industries seeking reliability, efficiency and security, in the cyber sense of the term. Their versatility, robustness and excellent performance/energy consumption ratio make them a serious, even indispensable, alternative for those working in harsh environments.

SFF (Small Form Factor) industrial computers are compact, efficient and versatile, suitable for demanding industrial conditions. They are used in automation, robotics, IoT systems, process control, and military applications (command centres, ships, etc.). These systems are integrated into reinforced enclosures that protect them from dust, humidity and extreme temperatures, and can be installed in confined spaces.

They share the same advantages as ruggedised computers:

• They are energy efficient,
• Have high processing capabilities,
• Offer great configuration flexibility,
• And feature advanced network interfaces and industrial communication protocols.

Their scalability and customisation allow them to meet specific needs, providing a reliable solution for modern industrial applications. These computers are essential for optimising operations, reducing clutter, and ensuring reliability and performance.

Whether ruggedised or not, SFF computers meet the complex requirements of many applications that need to be compact, particularly in autonomous vehicles.

They are widely used in the military, civil defence, agricultural, scientific and various other industrial sectors. Designed to withstand harsh storage and operating conditions, these computers also benefit from quality monitoring, high durability and support services tailored to the specific needs of industrial, aerospace and defence applications.

To meet all these needs and the strict requirements of its customers, ECRIN Systems offers a comprehensive range of customisable small form factor computers that are constantly evolving.

• Rugged mission computers: TOPAZE, ONYX, microONYX, nanoONYX
• Industrial PCs/servers: myOPALE range

In order to respond to a booming market, Ecrin Systems continues to expand and adapt its offering! 

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us using the form below. Our teams of experts are at your disposal.