Machine builders want newer breed of industrial PCs

The firm cites users increasing requirements for more machine efficiency and flexibility, leading to more demand for newer and more sophisticated industrial PCs. IMS’ report analysed four product types and found that panel industrial PCs represent the largest market accounting for more than 47% in terms of revenues. It also suggests that industrial PC manufacturers are largely adopting a modular approach to enhance the flexibility of their products – allowing them to take standard industrial PCs and then customise them. IMS analyst Mark Watson says: “The recent introduction of dual core processors will have a significant impact on the future market for industrial PCs. These processors, which deliver considerably more processing capacity without a comparable increase in power consumption, will allow a more efficient use of industrial PCs. Benefits to end-users include reduced cooling requirements and lower running costs.”