For applications that call for fanless embedded box industrial PCs, we most often consider systems deploying low power-consumption processors such as offered by Intel’s Atom series. A prime example is Advantech’s ARK-3403 that features the efficiency of either Intel’s D510 or D525 Atom processors. But delivery of the most highly-configurable embedded box PCs requires the option of fielding high-performance CPUs as well, including the extreme capabilities of Intel’s Core-i7 flagship processors.
As any enthusiast who has built a custom PC to meet the graphics-intensive challenges of modern high-definition computer games can tell you, taming the heat generated by such high-performance systems is among the greatest hurdles. But you can’t continuously circulate fan-forced air to cool critical components without also risking introduction of dust, moisture and other contaminants. For this, as well as other durability and safety considerations, industrial embedded box PCs that are destined for harsh or hazardous environments are typically sealed and fan-less.
So, how do you dissipate the heat loads inherent to high-performance CPUs without fans circulating outside air? Advantech’s ARK-3440 fan-less industrial embedded box PC meets this challenge by sealing the components in an all-metal enclosure that integrates a massive, machined-aluminum, finned heat sink. The result is an industrial PC that can withstand extended operation at temperatures ranging from 0.0°C (32°F) to 45°C (113°F) when equipped with standard consumer-grade SATA drives and up to 50°C (122°F) when fitted instead with a CompactFlash card.
But lest that rigid, rugged IP40-rated sealed metal enclosure deceive you, rest assured that it is also purpose designed to yield a highly-configurable platform. Connectivity options include:
- Support for dual displays, including high-resolution wide-screen formats (VGA to 2048×1536, DVI-D to 1920×1200, HDMI 1.3 to 2560x1600p75 and 24-bit LVDS to 1920×1200);
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports with support for Wake-On LAN;
- One eSATA port;
- Six USB 2.0 ports;
- Line-in, line-out, mic-in audio ports;
- Three COM ports;
- Two Serial RA232 ports; and
- Two Serial RS232/422/485 ports.
Configuration options also include drive-bay space for two SATA 2.5-inch HDDs, as well as a CompactFlash socket (Type I and II CF cards) accessible via a hinged door. Measuring just 267.18 (length) by 200 (width) by 123.5 mm (height), and accommodating an input-voltage range of 9 to 34 volts, the ARK-3440 is easily integrated into and configured for a wide range of applications. It’s also very easy to service.