Product knowledge

Compared with ordinary commercial tablets, the core interface features of industrial tablet computers are: more diverse types, higher reliability and stronger targeting.

The following are the common conventional interfaces on industrial tablet computers, which can be divided into two major categories: standard universal interfaces and professional industrial interfaces

I. Standard Universal Interface

These interfaces are similar to those of ordinary computers and are used to connect common peripherals.

USB interface

Usb-a 2.0/3.0: The most commonly used interface, used for connecting mice, keyboards, USB flash drives, printers, barcode scanners, etc.

USB-C: Becoming increasingly popular, it supports data transmission, video output and charging (PD protocol), and has more powerful functions.

Network interface

RJ-45 Gigabit Network Port: Used for wired network connections. In industrial scenarios, wired networks are more stable and reliable than Wi-Fi and are crucial for real-time data transmission. Some high-end models are equipped with dual network ports for network redundancy or connection to different networks.

Video output interface

HDMI/DisplayPort/VGA: Used for display expansion, connecting a second monitor or large screen, for data dashboards, monitoring large screens, etc.

Audio interface

3.5mm Headphone/microphone jack: It is used for audio input and output and is applied in scenarios such as voice interaction and alarm prompts.

DC power interface

Used for connecting an external power adapter. Industrial-grade power interfaces are usually more robust. Some adopt forms such as aviation plugs to ensure reliable connections and prevent accidental detachment.

Ii. Professional Industrial Interfaces (Core Differences)

These are the signature interfaces of industrial tablet computers and are the key for them to excel in industrial environments.

COM serial port/serial port

This is one of the most important industrial interfaces. It usually appears in the form of DB9.

Type: RS-232, RS-485/422.

Usage: It is used for connecting and communicating a large number of traditional industrial devices, such as:

PLC Programmable logic controller

Barcode scanner/gun

Electronic scale

Sensor

Frequency converter

Old machine tools and control panels

Industrial tablet computers are usually equipped with two or more COM ports to meet the connection requirements of multiple devices.

GPIO interface

Universal input/output interface.

Purpose: This is a simple digital signal interface that can achieve the control of switch quantities.

Input: Receive external switch signals, such as detecting access control switches, button pressing, alarm signal triggering, etc.

Output: Emit switch signals, such as controlling relays, lighting up indicator lights, triggering sound and light alarms, etc.

It is the fundamental interface for realizing industrial automation control.

CAN bus interface

Controller local area network bus interface.

Application: Widely used in automotive electronics and industrial field control fields (such as the CANopen protocol). It can achieve stable and anti-interference communication among multiple devices and is an important tool for building complex device networks.

Interface layout and protection features

In addition to the types of interfaces, its physical design is also very distinctive:

Front placement and scalability: For ease of operation, common interfaces such as USB and COM are often designed on the front panel. Some models also offer PCIe or Mini-PCIe slots, allowing users to expand specific communication cards (such as 4G/5G modules, additional network cards, etc.) as needed.

Protective design

All interfaces usually have a good electromagnetic shielding design to reduce interference.

To achieve a high protection level (such as IP65), rubber sealing covers or metal locking mechanisms will be used in the interface area to prevent dust and moisture from entering.

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