Industrial Computers for Oil and Gas Sectors

Industrial Computers Tailor-Made for Oil and Gas Sectors

Tangent’s explosion-proof computers are robust and purpose-built for the oil and gas industry. In environments characterized by the presence of flammable or explosive vapors or gases, such as those found in the oil and gas industry, prioritizing safety and reliability is of utmost importance. Tangent’s commitment of manufacturing best-practice purpose-built computers has heard the demands loud and clear. With the ever-present threat of explosive atmospheres, traditional computing systems are inadequate, necessitating the development of sophisticated explosion-proof computers. These specialized devices represent a fusion of cutting-edge engineering and stringent safety standards, tailored to meet the unique demands of hazardous environments. This article explores Tangent’s C1D2 / C2D2 Explosion-Proof Industrial Computers and their perfect-fit solution for the oil and gas industry.

A pioneer of industrial computers and PCs, Tangent has engineered a plethora of rugged computers tailored for the stringent safety regulations imposed on industries operating in high-demand environments. From icy coolers, to sweltering factories, Tangent’s computers are mounted within meat processing facilities and commercial car washes. Experts in creating durable, reliable solutions and with rising demands from oil and gas clients, Tangent created robust computing solutions capable of withstanding the rigors of flammable environments. These computers are engineered with specialized enclosures and components designed to mitigate the risk of ignition and ensure uninterrupted operation even in hazardous conditions.

Explosion Proof Computer for Oil and Gas Industries
C1D2 Explosion-Proof Industrial Computer

Tangent has merged ruggedized design principles with explosion-proof technology, employing innovative engineering techniques to fortify computing systems against external hazards such as impact, vibration, and extreme temperatures. This hybrid approach enhances the resilience of these computers and also extends their lifespan in harsh industrial settings.

Tangent’s explosion-proof computers are equipped with advanced sensors and connectivity features. These devices facilitate real-time monitoring of critical parameters, enabling proactive maintenance and enhancing operational efficiency in the fuel industry. By harnessing the power of data analytics and predictive maintenance algorithms, these computers empower stakeholders to make informed decisions while minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

By implementing intrinsic safety measures, such as limiting energy levels and employing specialized barriers, Tangent ensures that explosion-proof computers can operate safely in volatile environments without compromising functionality. Further, with the utilization of high-performance computing components such as ruggedized solid-state drives (SSDs) to fanless cooling systems, these industrial PCs are engineered to withstand the harsh operating conditions prevalent in the oil and gas industry. Tangent’s explosion-proof computers deliver unparalleled reliability and performance, essential for mission-critical operations.

In offshore oil and gas platforms, where the risk of explosion is omnipresent due to the presence of volatile hydrocarbons, deploying ruggedized computers equipped with intrinsically safe components, operators can monitor and control vital processes without compromising safety or regulatory compliance. Real-time data acquisition and analysis capabilities empower decision-makers to optimize production efficiency while minimizing environmental risks in remote offshore environments.

Similarly, in petrochemical refineries and fuel storage facilities, explosion-proof computers help in orchestrating complex operations while adhering to stringent safety protocols. From inventory management to process automation, these computing systems provide a reliable backbone for critical infrastructure, ensuring seamless operation even in hazardous conditions. By leveraging the latest advancements in explosion-proof technology, refineries can enhance operational resilience and mitigate the potential impact of unforeseen events on production schedules and supply chains.

As the fuel industry continues to evolve, Tangent carefully monitors the uncompromisable requirements explosion-proof computers must meet to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure operational continuity. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, Tangent answers the call of the oil and gas industry with its explosion-proof computers.

Contact Tangent to furnish your company a tailored explosion-proof computing solution.

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What's the Most Reliable Industrial PC?

What is the Most Reliable Industrial PC?

An industrial computer, often referred to as an industrial PC, is purpose-built to handle complex industrial tasks. Crafted from industrial-grade components, enclosed in ruggedized casings, and rigorously tested for reliability, these industrial PCs excel in environments where standard desktop computers would falter.

Key features of industrial PCs include:

  • Ventless and Fanless Design: Industrial PCs are designed to operate without traditional fans, making them resistant to dust and debris, while reducing the risk of internal component damage.
  • Resilience to Vibrations and Harsh Environments: These PCs are built to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibrations, ensuring uninterrupted performance in challenging conditions.
  • Easy Configuration: Industrial PCs offer flexibility in terms of configuration, allowing them to be tailored to specific applications and industries.
  • Comprehensive I/O Options: These PCs provide a wide range of input and output options, facilitating seamless integration with existing equipment and systems.
  • Extended Lifecycles: Industrial PCs are engineered for longevity, ensuring they continue to perform reliably over an extended period.
  • Durable Components: Built with high-quality components, industrial PCs are designed to endure the test of time, even in the harshest environments.

Selecting the right industrial PC for your specific application is essential for maintaining productivity and efficiency within your facility. By exploring the main types of industrial PCs, considerations during the selection process, key benefits, typical applications, and more, you can make an informed choice to meet your industrial computing needs.

Common Types of Industrial PCs

Industrial PCs come in various types, each tailored to specific industrial applications. Here are three common types:

  • Industrial Panel PCs (IPPCs): These are the most robust and durable industrial PCs, suitable for heavy-duty industrial settings like automotive, steel manufacturing, dairy, and meat processing. Equipped with capacitive or resistive touch sensors, IPPCs can be operated by gloved personnel, making them ideal for challenging environments. They offer features such as installed I/O cards, redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAIDs), multiple drives, and PCI/PCIe expansion slots.
  • Panel PCs (PPCs): Designed for a wide range of light industrial tasks, PPCs are affordable and versatile. They provide ample input and output expansion options and come with various screen choices, including widescreen with multi-touch features or a standard 4:3 screen with a resistive touchscreen. PPC sizes range from 6.5 inches to 42 inches.
  • Touch Panel PCs (TPPCs): These PCs are designed for standard industrial applications and have a slim profile with a thin client terminal. They are fanless, SCADA-ready, and feature screen sizes ranging from 6.5 inches to 42 inches. Typically, TPPCs have fewer I/O options compared to other industrial PC types.

Industrial PCs can offer various characteristics and mounting options depending on the specific application’s demands, including fully enclosed, in-wall, wall-mounted, VESA-mounted, swing arm, fold-down, pedestal, purged, and non-purged designs. Additionally, the materials used for industrial PC enclosures and displays vary and may include aluminum, stainless steel, carbon fiber, composites, polycarbonate, glass, and Lexan.

Choosing the Best Industrial PC

When selecting an industrial PC for your application, consider factors such as computing performance, operating environment, power supply availability, space constraints, and required connectivity features. Key options you’ll need to choose from include mounting styles, processors (CPUs), ratings, operating environments, application or industry use, connectivity, and operating systems. Storage, memory, and expansion options will also play a crucial role in determining the best fit for your needs.

Industrial PCs are versatile, providing benefits such as the ability to operate in harsh environments, resistance to vibration and shock, and fanless design to resist dust and debris. They find applications in various industries, including manufacturing, packaging inspection, asset tracking, simulation and control, remote data management, chemical and food processing, original equipment manufacturing (OEMs), and integration by system integrators.

Why Choose Tangent?

As a leading manufacturer of industrial PCs and display solutions, Tangent offers off-the-shelf and customized solutions for demanding industrial applications across industries like chemical, food processing, manufacturing, military, and more. With over 30 years of industry experience, their products are engineered and constructed to provide long-lasting performance in a wide range of applications.

For more information on how Tangent’s industrial computer solutions can meet your application demands, or to request a quote, visit: Tangent’s industrial PC page. Tangent is dedicated to providing tailored solutions for system integrators without unnecessary NRE charges, ensuring reliable and successful operation in every project.

Explosion Proof Industrial Computer

New Product Announcement: Industrial Explosion Proof VITA S C1D2 15″ and 22″ Computers

Tangent is thrilled to announce the release of its latest products, the Explosion Proof Panel PC, Vita S C1D1 15” and 22” series. Designed to meet the stringent requirements of hazardous environments, the Vita S Explosion Proof series computers have undergone rigorous testing to ensure safety, top performance, and offers the best solution for environments with explosion considerations. This cutting-edge product is specifically tailored to excel in the oil and gas industry, chemical manufacturing, power generation, distilleries, and other hazardous industrial applications.

Explosive environments are characterized by the presence of three elements:

 Flammable materials (such as gases, vapors, or dust), a source of ignition (such as sparks or high temperatures), and oxygen, which is commonly found everywhere. The fundamental principle of explosion-proof protection is to eliminate one or more of these elements. Tangent’s Vita S Explosion Proof Computer series is C1D2/ATEx Zone II/IECEx certified, ensuring safe operation under flammable or explosive potential environments.

The Vita S Explosion Proof Computer series boasts flexible and scalable connectivity 

options paired with a rugged design to meet various application needs and withstand hazardous conditions. With cable gland USB ports (up to 4) and LAN ports (up to 2), an IP66 dust-water proof enclosure with M12 COM connectors, and robust wireless solutions, Tangent provides versatile connectivity solutions. The heavy-duty cover makes it easy to clean and offers anti-corrosion properties. Furthermore, the Vita S Explosion Proof Computer series is equipped with a smart thermal system that maintains a wide temperature range from -20℃ to 60℃, making it suitable for diverse environmental requirements.

Factory automation in hazardous areas can greatly benefit from the Vita S Explosion Proof series. Powered by an Intel® 6th generation processor and two 2133 MHz DDR4 up to 32G, these explosion proof panel PCs offer high computing power for comprehensive real-time control and data collection. With their 24/7 operation and high-performance CPUs, the Vita S Explosion Proof series enables the inspection and monitoring of equipment. Tangent’s Explosion Proof Vita S series guarantees brilliant graphics, data collection, and seamless communication in central control rooms, ensuring an efficient response to any situation.

The Vita S C1D2 Explosion Proof series sets new standards for protective solutions with its IP66 sealing, meeting ATEX Zone II/IECEx/C1D2 certifications. Tangent is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safety for its users, resulting in upgraded products suitable for industrial usage. The Vita S C1D2 Explosion Proof series has also obtained FCC, CE (EMC), and VCCI Class B certifications, providing stable and reliable products that enhance user health and safety. Tangent’s core competence and experience are reflected in every detail of the design, offering customers a higher level of protection.

For sales or to request an eval contact: +1 800 342 9388

How Industrial PCs are Revolutionizing Industrial Automation

Industrial automation has come a long way in recent years, and the rise of industrial PCs has played a significant role in this revolution. Industrial PCs are used to control and monitor a wide range of manufacturing processes, from assembly lines to robotic systems. In this blog, we will discuss how industrial PCs are revolutionizing industrial automation.

  1. Increased Precision: Industrial PCs offer precise control over manufacturing processes, ensuring that each step is carried out with exacting accuracy. This increased precision leads to improved quality control and reduced waste, resulting in higher profitability for manufacturers.
  2. Enhanced Flexibility: Industrial PCs are highly customizable, allowing manufacturers to tailor their automation systems to their specific needs. This flexibility makes it easier to adapt to changes in production requirements and helps manufacturers stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
  3. Real-time Data Analysis: Industrial PCs can be integrated with data management systems to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of manufacturing processes. This enables manufacturers to identify bottlenecks, optimize production, and reduce downtime, resulting in increased efficiency and profitability.
  4. Improved Safety: Industrial automation can be dangerous, and safety is a top priority for manufacturers. Industrial PCs offer advanced safety features, such as emergency stop buttons, safety interlocks, and programmable safety controllers, that help protect workers and prevent accidents.
  5. Cost-Effective: Industrial PCs are a cost-effective solution for industrial automation. They offer superior performance and reliability compared to traditional automation solutions, while also being more affordable and easier to maintain.

In conclusion, industrial PCs are revolutionizing industrial automation. Their increased precision, enhanced flexibility, real-time data analysis capabilities, improved safety features, and cost-effectiveness make them an essential tool for modern manufacturing facilities. With industrial PCs, manufacturers can achieve improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and increased profitability.

Choosing the Right Industrial PC for Your Manufacturing Needs

Manufacturing processes have become increasingly reliant on technology, and industrial PCs have become an essential component of these processes. However, selecting the right industrial PC for your manufacturing needs can be a daunting task. In this blog, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing the right industrial PC for your manufacturing needs.

Environmental Considerations: Industrial PCs are designed to withstand harsh environments, including temperature extremes, dust, and vibration. When selecting an industrial PC, consider the environmental conditions in which it will operate. Choose an industrial PC that can withstand the conditions of your manufacturing facility.

Processing Power: The processing power of an industrial PC determines its ability to handle complex applications and data-intensive tasks. Consider the processing power needed for your manufacturing processes, and choose an industrial PC with sufficient processing power to handle these tasks efficiently.

Customization Options: Industrial PCs are highly customizable and can be configured to meet specific manufacturing needs. When selecting an industrial PC, consider the customization options available. Choose an industrial PC that can be tailored to your unique manufacturing requirements.

Expansion Capabilities: Manufacturing processes are subject to change, and you need an industrial PC that can adapt to these changes. Consider the expansion capabilities of an industrial PC when making your selection. Choose an industrial PC with expansion options that allow you to add components or upgrade hardware as needed.

Connectivity Options: Industrial PCs need to be able to communicate with other devices and systems in your manufacturing process. Consider the connectivity options available when selecting an industrial PC. Choose an industrial PC that supports the necessary communication protocols and interfaces.

Support and Maintenance: Industrial PCs require maintenance and support to ensure optimal performance. Consider the level of support and maintenance available for the industrial PC you are considering. Choose an industrial PC with a reliable and responsive support team.

Selecting the right industrial PC for your manufacturing needs requires careful consideration of several factors. Environmental considerations, processing power, customization options, expansion capabilities, connectivity options, and support and maintenance are all crucial factors to consider. By carefully considering these factors, you can select an industrial PC that meets your manufacturing needs and helps you achieve optimal efficiency and profitability.

Clean Rooms and Industrial PCs: A Perfect Pairing

Clean rooms are critical environments that require specialized equipment to maintain a contamination-free environment. Industrial PCs are a perfect pairing for clean room applications, providing reliable and efficient solutions for controlling processes and data management.

The strict cleanliness requirements of clean rooms make it necessary to use specialized equipment that can operate without causing contamination. Industrial PCs designed for clean room use are made of high-grade stainless steel and have a sealed design to prevent particle ingress. They must also meet the necessary certification requirements, including ISO 14644, for clean room use.

The use of industrial PCs in clean room applications offers many benefits, including their ability to operate in harsh environments, handle large amounts of data, and integrate with other equipment. They can be customized to meet specific application requirements and can withstand exposure to chemicals and other contaminants.

In addition, industrial PCs can provide real-time data monitoring and control, making it easier to detect and correct issues that could cause contamination. They can also help streamline processes, reducing the risk of human error and increasing productivity.

Clean rooms and industrial PCs are a perfect pairing. The use of industrial PCs in clean room applications offers many benefits, including reliable and efficient solutions for controlling processes and data management while maintaining the strict cleanliness requirements of a clean room environment.

Industrial PCs Necessary for Clean Rooms

Clean rooms are critical environments used in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotech, and semiconductor manufacturing to maintain a controlled environment free of airborne contaminants. The stringent requirements for clean room environments make it necessary to use specialized equipment that can operate without causing contamination. Industrial PCs are a necessary component in clean room applications, offering reliable and efficient solutions for controlling processes and data management.

Industrial PCs designed for clean room applications must comply with strict standards to ensure they do not generate any contaminants. They are typically made of high-grade stainless steel and have a sealed design to prevent particle ingress. They must also meet the necessary certification requirements, including ISO 14644, for clean room use.

The use of industrial PCs in clean room applications is necessary to maintain the strict cleanliness requirements of a clean room environment. They provide real-time data monitoring and control, making it easier to detect and correct issues that could cause contamination. Industrial PCs can also help streamline processes, reducing the risk of human error and increasing productivity.

The benefits of using industrial PCs in clean room applications are numerous, including their ability to operate in harsh environments, handle large amounts of data, and integrate with other equipment. They can be customized to meet specific application requirements and can withstand exposure to chemicals and other contaminants.

industrial computers shock resistance(1)

Industrial PC: Why Shock Resistance Matters

The office environment is a controlled one. An office has air conditioning, is constantly cleaned, and would never have large industrial equipment in it. Commercial computers fit well into these sorts of environments. But just like you would never see industrial equipment inside an office, you ideally would never see commercial computers in an industrial workplace. The dynamic and ever-changing landscape of a factory, meat processing plant, or other industrial facility demands equipment that is suited for rougher environments. One of these demands is for shock resistance. A good industrial PC needs to be shock resistant so that it can perform in any situation.

Why An Industrial PC Needs To Be Shock Resistance

There are many situations that call for a shock resistant Industrial PC. Think about all the vehicles your facility employs, whether they be cranes or forklifts or even tractors: they all face situations that typical commercial vehicles could not handle. This may be a bumpy road — or no road at all. In any case, the computer you use in these vehicles also has to be able to withstand these conditions.

In areas like foundries where metals are cast, there are many routine operations that cause a great deal of shockwaves to be emitted. Over time, these shockwaves can cause damage to the delicate components used in traditional computers. By using an industrial PC with shock resistance, this damage can be avoided and your computers can last longer.

Vibration Resistance Is Also Crucial

Of course, shocks are only one part of the equation. Shock resistance refers to an object’s ability to take on a sudden force of acceleration. But what about constant, small forces? That’s where Vibration resistance comes in. Your industrial vehicles, even when being pelted by debris, may experience vibrations that could cause harm to standard commercial computers.

By using an industrial PC built with vibration resistance, these threats can be eliminated. An industrial PC built with an SSD amplifies this protection. SSDs, unlike disk-based HDDs, have no moving parts in them. They can withstand far more punishing environments than HDDs, and make their computer far more resilient. 

Industrial PCs That Are Shock And Vibration Resistant

Rugged Mini E3 Industrial Computer
Rugged Mini E3 Industrial Computer

Of course, not every industrial PC has high shock resistance and vibration. However, many from Tangent’s lineup of industrial computers do. An industrial PC like the Rugged E3 from Tangent has both forms of resistance. The E3 is perfect for use in industrial vehicles of all varieties. Its small form factor allows it to fit in any small nook that your vehicles may have, and its extensive power options ensure there’s always an outlet for it. Outside of vehicles, Tangent’s S series is the perfect all-in-one Industrial PC with shock and vibration resistance. It can be mounted on any VESA 100 mount, and has a touchscreen for easy use.

Industrial Grade Computers-Tangent Industrial Grade Computers
S Series Of Industrial Computers

Worry Less About Damaging Your Computers With Tangent

Your facility has no doubt gone through changes since the beginning of the pandemic. Now is the time to consider what other changes can help keep your facility running smoothly. An industrial PC from Tangent will help it do just that. For more information, contact Tangent Sales today.

Industrial PCs Why Tangent Has Your Best Options

Industrial PCs: Why Tangent Has Your Best Options

Bottlenecks in shipping have affected consumers and producers alike. With current trends, the supply chain crisis is unlikely to resolve in the near term. Everything from cars to computers is facing delays in production in one form or another. During times like these, companies across all sectors need reliable tools that they can depend on. With a supply chain crisis, there is simply no sense in risking further delays in production with fault equipment. Industrial PCs have become a common fixture in many industries. But when was the last time your company audited and upgraded its equipment? As demand once again surges to pre-pandemic levels, now is the time to sort out upgrading your facility with the latest industrial PCs to ensure it emerges from this crisis in fighting shape.

But not every brand of industrial PCs is building equipment that will last your facility for years. Many computers are designed with either low-impact resistant materials, small operating temperature ranges, or lacking in ports. Tangent industrial PCs are built for a wide range of applications, all while performing in nearly any environment.

Industrial PCs: Variety Of Form Factors

One of the most valuable resources any industrial facility has is its square footage. Factories can only produce as much as they have room for. Oil rigs are notoriously cramped spaces as well. Making the most out of every square foot is crucial to increasing productivity. Tangent understands this and has designed their lineup of industrial PCs to fit in nearly every space.

VITA KW Line of Industrial PCs
VITA KW Line Of Industrial Computers

Not every location is suitable for a full desk setup. Yet, a computer may be extremely necessary in an area with limited space. Small form factor industrial PCs like the VITA K22 from Tangent are perfect for these situations. The Vita K22 does not require a mouse or keyboard to operate with its touchscreen. With standard VESA mounting, the K22 can be placed in nearly any environment.

Instead of having to rely on a far away control center, workers can check up on an area’s equipment by using a wall mounted industrial PC like the Vita K22. This computer can also run Android, meaning it is compatible with Android specific applications.

Other industrial PCs offer even smaller form factors. The Mini E3 V2 from Tangent offers all the power of a desktop computer in a tiny package. The E3 is a mere 3.15 inches tall, and around the width of a small laptop. This industrial PC can be placed in nearly any situation, and makes a great in-vehicle computer.

Industrial PCs: Built Tough 

While job sites take safety seriously as priority these days, safety for industrial PCs is a whole different matter. Standard PCs that are used in offices and homes do not have to be built to withstand industrial conditions. On an oil rig, there is the constant threat of water seeping into a computer. In factories, shaking and drops are a routine occurrence. 

A good industrial PC needs to be able to survive in a variety of environments with damage to the unit. Tangent’s industrial grade PCs are built with all working environments in min. The Mini E3 is designed with an extruded aluminum enclosure complete with heavy duty metal. This casing, combined with its advanced design, allows it to withstand 50 G, half sine, 11 ms of shock and 5 Grms, 5- 500 Hz, 0.5 hr/axis worth of vibration. The E3 can be used in a variety of situations where moving parts routinely cause damage to PCs.

Many of Tangent’s industrial PCs feature shock and vibration resistance. These features also make them perfect for use in large industrial vehicles, as their constant movement won’t be a problem for the PCs.

Industrial PCs: Fanless and fanned chassis design.

Many industrial sites make use of materials that produce dust, or exist in areas where dust is routinely kicked up. While your workers have masks and other PPE to protect them from dust, what about your industrial PCs? Many computers utilize a fan-based cooling system. This cooling system circulates air throughout the body of the computer in order to keep its delicate components cool enough to function properly. However, in order to feed air into these fans, these computers require ventilation.

In an area where dust is common, this simply won’t do. PCs would be breaking down constantly as they filled up with debris. That’s why Tangent’s industrial PCs make use of a fanless cooling system. This system utilizes passive cooling technology to keep the computer running at a cool temperature. Because there is no fan, these units do not need ventilation and are protected from dust at all times.

This not only prevents the industrial PCs from overheating, but also saves maintenance costs and time as well. Your IT department will not have to routinely dust these computers nearly as often, and can instead focus their efforts elsewhere.

Maximum Water And Dust Resistance

Dust of course is not the only environmental enemy that your industrial PCs face. Water exposure is a constant threat to any form of electronics. Just a few drops can take out an entire computer, and halt a facility’s operations. In an industrial environment, liquids can appear from any number of sources entirely by accident. Industrial PCs need to be built with this in mind.

Rugged Mini O Industrial Computer
Rugged Mini O Industrial Computer

That’s where the Rugged Mini O comes in. The Rugged Mini O features an entirely closed off enclosure that keeps water out, and your computer operating. The Rugged Mini O features all the IO ports that your facility requires, but with plugs to keep them safe from water. This industrial PC meets the highest IP standard possible for water and dust protection. This IP69K rating means that this industrial PC provides protection against ingress of dust and high temperature and high pressure water.

The Rugged Mini O is perfect for applications like in food processing plants. There, it can be hit with high pressure hoses without worry of damage. This industrial PC can also find a home on oil rigs where water routinely splashes up to the platform. It features a mounting system to fit it in multiple locations as well.

Extreme Temperature Operation Comes Standard

Extreme weather events are becoming more common with each passing day. One rarely talked about weather event is heat waves. Heat waves have become more common, but are seldom tracked in the same way that other weather occurrences are. Still, as temperatures rise, the industrial sector will need to adapt. Their equipment will need to also.

Most industrial PCs cannot handle high temperatures, and for good reason. Computers in general fail to operate at high temperatures. Too long at these temperatures, and the PC’s CPU can sustain serious long term damage. They need advanced cooling systems in order to fend off extreme heat.

The Rugged Mini O features such a cooling system. It can operate in areas up to 140°F. Most industrial facilities rarely get this hot, but can quickly become far too overheated for standard computers. Other facilities can routinely reach these temperatures. In either case, the Rugged Mini O provides ease of mind in knowing that your facility can function even in extreme heat.

Sometimes however, just the opposite is needed. In refrigerated facilities, extreme cold resistance is needed for computers. Just a dash of humidity in a refrigerated facility can cause ice crystals to form inside a computer. When the computer thaws out, the ice can turn into water and damage the unit.

Mini C1 Industrial Computer


Industrial PCs like the Rugged Mini C1 from Tangent can be used in temperatures as low as -40°F without damage to the unit. This makes it perfect for use in freezing areas in meat or food processing plants. It can be used directly inside these areas and connect directly to in use machinery.

Reduce Down Time

One area that industrial facilities need to be mindful of when purchasing new industrial PCs is their support services. While it may seem trivial, the last thing you want is for your industrial PCs to stop working, and your IT department to be on hold with the supplier for hours. These sorts of delays are only exacerbated by the supply chain crises, and can cost your company in both time and money.

Tangent offers extensive warranties for all of their industrial PCs. This warranty ensures that your computers work as intended and meet our rigorous standards. We also back these industrial PCs up with an extensive support network.

Any time there is an issue with a Tangent industrial PC, your IT department can call Tangent’s support hotline for assistance. Tangent agents are based in California, and are intimately acquainted with all of Tangent’s industrial PCs. They understand the importance of reducing a facility’s downtime, and will work tirelessly with your team to get your system operational.

When there are no crises, this hotline is still available for routine maintenance and care advice, as well as general technical inquiries your IT team may have. The best part? Tangent’s crackshot team of support professionals are available on a 24/7 basis. Tangent knows that an emergency can strike in a moment’s notice, any time of the day. We want to ensure that whenever — and we mean whenever —  there is an issue with one of our industrial PCs, that we take care of it immediately. 

Extensive IO Port Options

Just because Tangent’s lineup of Industrial PCs feature small form factors, doesn’t mean they sacrifice in their usability. Tangent’s industrial computers are designed to be used in a variety of applications. This means that they need to be adaptable and compatible with a range of different peripherals and applications.

Industrial PCs like the Rugged Mini C1 feature a plethora of IO ports for all of your peripheral needs. It features 4 DB9 serial ports that are perfect for all of your legacy equipment needs. Many industrial facilities are making use of technology that is still highly efficient, but features outdated cables. Instead of having to work through a mountain of adapters, the C1 can connect directly to these devices.

The C1 also features 8 USB ports. 4 of these ports are USB 3.0, and can handle high-data transfer cables to provide lightning fast responses. 4 are USB 2.0 and fully compatible with USB 2.0 devices. The C1 also has 2 HDMI ports, making it perfect for situations where dual displays are not just desired, but needed.

Tangent: Here Today And Tomorrow

The challenges facing the global economy are expected to be around a bit longer. As your production lines try to keep up with demand, now is the time to ensure that when the supply chain gets back into shape, you are ready. Tangent’s industrial PCs are perfect for upgrading your oil processing facility, refrigerated warehouse, or general industrial space. For more information, contact Tangent Sales today.

China’s Economy Grew Last Year, How Will This Affect U.S. Manufacturing?

While the pandemic sent most major economies reeling, China’s economy managed to do the unthinkable — rise. The Chinese economy rose 2.3% last year. The stock market in Shanghai rose on the news by 1%, after having already made considerable gains throughout the year. The Chinese response to the pandemic has proven successful on both a human and economic side, but what does this mean for U.S. Manufacturing?

U.S. Manufacturing, How Can It Recover?

While the Chinese economy overall rose during 2020, certain areas felt the pandemic-inflicted economic woes worse than others. The New York Times reports that blue collar workers are finding themselves hard pressed for work, as well as recent college graduates. So while China’s recovery has been successful, there are pockets of doubt.

But there are lessons to be learned from China. Chief among them is that protecting workers works. With stay-at-home orders imposed throughout numerous areas in the country, including large swaths of California, commerce is down. In order for the economy to safely reopen, places of business must do everything they can to protect both workers and patrons.

Keeping workers safe ensures that their families remain safe, and helps reduce the spread of the pandemic overall. Make sure that your employees have access to the best possible PPE that your facility can provide. More than this, make sure that your employees are actually wearing their PPE when around others.

Rugged Mini E3 Industrial Computer From Tangent
Rugged Mini E3 Industrial Computer From Tangent

Social distancing, as always, remains one of the most important ways for workers to remain healthy at work. Consider having some employees use industrial grade computers rather than be exposed to each other on the floor. With industrial grade computers, certain aspects of your facility can be automated or done remotely, instead of having employees close together.

This can be especially useful in industrial areas such as meat processing. Meat processing plants have been a site for mass infections since the beginning of the pandemic, largely in part to poor PPE usage and lackluster social distancing efforts. By doubling down on these important points, workers can feel confident and comfortable at work, and at their homes.

The pandemic has caused strain across U.S. manufacturing and industry, but China’s swift recovery shows that there is light at the end of this tunnel. Tangent is here to help facilities of all kinds in their recovery efforts, contact a Tangent Specialist today for more information.