Configuring a custom industrial PC is a strategic approach for any company seeking to combine performance, controlled budget, and reliability. Unlike a standard solution, a personalized computer precisely meets your technical needs. But how do you configure it? The process involves analyzing your environment, choosing suitable components such as the processor or motherboard, and defining the form factor. The main advantage is obtaining a perfectly adapted machine, since each component is selected for your application. The price of a custom PC will depend on this configuration, but obtaining a free quote is the first step to making your project a reality. This guide helps you assemble the ideal solution, from rugged options to professional support, ensuring the performance and quality of your IT equipment.
Why choose a custom industrial computer?
Choosing a custom computer is above all an investment in performance and longevity. The advantages are numerous, as this approach frees you from the constraints of standard products. You obtain an IT solution whose every component is selected to meet a specific need, offering unmatched value for money. A personalized system guarantees perfect hardware compatibility and future-proof scalability. In the industrial sector, reliability is king. A custom PC is designed to operate flawlessly in your environment, whether exposed to extreme temperatures, vibrations, or dust, extending its lifespan and optimizing your long-term budget.
How to configure your industrial PC: step-by-step guide
Configuring a personalized industrial PC is a methodical process. Following these steps ensures you miss nothing when creating the ideal machine for your business.
Analysis of your needs and environment: This is the starting point. It is crucial to define operating conditions. Will your machine be exposed to humidity, dust, or extreme temperatures? This analysis determines the required robustness level and protection rating (IP).
Definition of required performance: What workload will the computer handle? The type of processor (Intel, AMD), the amount of RAM, and storage technology (SSD for speed and durability) depend directly on the applications you will use, whether process control or artificial intelligence.
Selection of connectivity and interfaces: List all devices and systems to connect. The number of USB, Ethernet, serial (RS-232/485) ports, or wireless options (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) must be precisely evaluated to ensure smooth integration into your existing network.
Choice of format and installation: Available space dictates the form factor. Do you need a rackmount system in a 19-inch rack, a compact Box PC, or a Panel PC with integrated touchscreen for a human-machine interface (HMI)?
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Component selection: the heart of your high-performance system
Choosing components is the step where your project comes to life. Unlike gaming or office PCs, where raw performance is often prioritized, an industrial PC focuses on reliability and longevity. Every part is a strategic decision.
Processor (CPU): The brain of your system. The choice between Intel or AMD depends on the balance sought between computing power and low consumption, essential for fanless systems.
Memory (RAM): RAM must be sized precisely for your applications. The right amount guarantees flawless smoothness, even for real-time data processing.
Storage (SSD): Industrial-grade SSDs are preferred for their resistance to shocks and vibrations, offering fast startup and high reliability.
Motherboard: The backbone of your configuration. An industrial motherboard ensures not only compatibility between all components but also long-term availability, essential for maintenance and sustainability.
Cooling system: Fanless solutions are ideal for dusty environments, as the absence of a fan eliminates clogging-related failures and ensures silent operation.
What is the price of a custom industrial PC?
Determining the price of a custom PC is not like choosing an off-the-shelf product. The final cost directly reflects your personalized configuration. Several factors influence the budget:
Component quality: Industrial-grade components designed to operate 24/7 in harsh conditions cost more but guarantee longer lifespan.
Required certifications: Depending on your sector, specific certifications may be required (ATEX for explosive zones, EN50155 for railway, or military standards). For example, a PC for defense must comply with standards such as MIL-STD-810.
Ruggedization level: Reinforced chassis, high protection rating (IP65, IP67), or fanless design represent an investment in durability.
Project complexity: Integration of specific acquisition cards or development of a unique embedded solution also impacts the quote.
The best way to know the exact cost is therefore to make a request. A free quote will give you a clear view of the required budget according to your technical needs.
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Assembly and integration: professional expertise
Assembling a custom PC is not just connecting components. It is a profession requiring experience and deep technical knowledge. Using a professional service like NCS Systems guarantees assembly performed according to best practices. Our workshop experts ensure not only compatibility of every part but also optimized cable management for airflow and maintenance. Each system then undergoes a series of rigorous tests (burn-in) to validate stability and performance before delivery. This service gives you peace of mind: your computer is ready to use, high-performance, and covered by warranty.
Rugged solutions and specific applications
Some sectors require IT solutions beyond standard. For these applications, rugged configuration options are essential. A rugged industrial PC is designed to withstand the harshest conditions: shocks, vibrations, temperatures from -40°C to +85°C, humidity, and liquid splashes. These machines often feature stainless steel chassis, sealed connectors, and resistive touchscreens usable with gloves.
These systems are at the heart of many critical activities:
Defense and security: Tempest-certifiable embedded computers for field missions.
Medical and pharmaceutical: A medical PC must ensure full traceability and comply with strict hygiene standards.
Transport and logistics: Embedded systems for fleet management and real-time tracking.
Food industry: Panel PCs with IP69K protection rating, resistant to high-pressure cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What total cost should I expect for a custom industrial PC integrating ATEX Zone 2/22 certification for my chemical plant?
The cost of an ATEX-certified PC strongly depends on specifications (processor, RAM, storage) and format (Box PC, Panel PC). The certification itself represents a significant portion of the budget due to rigorous laboratory testing. To obtain an accurate price, a detailed analysis of your needs is essential. We invite you to contact us for a personalized quote based on your specifications.
How does a custom industrial PC compare to a standard model in terms of lifespan and production downtime reduction in a demanding food-processing environment?
A custom industrial PC offers an average lifespan of 7 years or more, compared to 2-3 years for a standard model. It is designed with long-life components and a robust design (e.g., fanless, IP67/IP69K) drastically reducing failures related to humidity or dust. This advantage translates into significant production downtime reduction and improved ROI.
What is the exact process of configuring and integrating a custom industrial PC into my existing SCADA infrastructure, and what are the typical timelines?
The process begins with an analysis phase of your SCADA system. Our experts then study hardware and software compatibility to propose an appropriate configuration. After quote validation, assembly and workshop testing generally take a few weeks. On-site integration is then scheduled with your teams to minimize production impact. Total lead time varies from 4 to 8 weeks depending on project complexity.
What are the potential risks of using a non-certified industrial PC in a production environment subject to strict safety standards (ISO 13849, for example) and how does your solution minimize them?
Using a non-certified PC exposes you to compliance risks, unpredictable hardware failures that may cause accidents, and possible insurance coverage refusal. Our custom solutions are designed considering these standards. We select reliable components and can support clients in certifying the complete system to ensure compliance and operator safety.
How do you ensure compatibility and longevity of drivers and software updates for an industrial PC running a specific real-time OS (e.g., QNX) in a critical machine-control application?
We ensure longevity by selecting motherboards and components benefiting from long-term manufacturer support (typically 7 to 15 years). We validate driver compatibility with the real-time OS beforehand and provide a stable Board Support Package (BSP). In addition, our obsolescence management service alerts you when a component reaches end-of-life and offers compatible replacement solutions.
In 2027, how does your custom industrial PC solution handle cybersecurity and data integrity issues amid increasing threats and stricter regulations (e.g., NIS2)?
Our solutions integrate cybersecurity from the design stage (security by design). We offer hardware options such as TPM 2.0 chips for encryption, secure BIOS, and the ability to disable unused ports. We also assist our clients in selecting hardened operating systems and implementing best practices to comply with regulations such as NIS2, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
Your project deserves an expert solution
For more than 30 years, NCS Systems has been designing custom industrial IT solutions for the most demanding projects. Our expertise, from study to manufacturing, enables us to provide a high-performance, reliable system perfectly adapted to your business. Trust a passionate partner to bring your project to life.