Why choose an industrial monitor instead of a cheaper consumer model? The answer is that industrial monitors differ significantly from standard PC monitors in design, durability, and functionality. Industrial monitors are specifically engineered to withstand harsh environments and offer features that cater to specific industrial needs. Having so many variations on the market can make it hard to know how to choose an industrial monitor that will check all the boxes for your project needs. Below we will highlight ten important factors to consider when choosing an industrial monitor, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your operational requirements.
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One of the first things to consider when selecting a new industrial monitor is whether it has ports that will enable it to connect to the rest of your equipment. There are many styles of video connection ports, each with their own characteristics and advantages. In an industrial setting, the most commonly used ports include VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI, though there are many other options available on the market.
It is also important to keep in mind that different ports have different capabilities. For example, a VGA port is capable of displaying at a maximum resolution of × pixels (p), with display quality dropping off rapidly at higher resolutions. If a higher resolution is required, say for a large screen viewed from a distance, then HDMI, DisplayPort, or DVI would all be better choices.
The display size and resolution of an industrial monitor are crucial factors that depend on your project's requirements and the available space at the installation site. Larger screens are needed for detailed visual tasks, but they require higher resolutions to maintain clarity. It's important to balance the screen size with adequate resolution to ensure clear and crisp display quality, especially in industrial settings where precision is key.
The physical dimensions of the screen are an important consideration when selecting an industrial monitor. Smaller screens are more cost-effective, and may be perfect for situations where you need to display limited information at once or when space is at a premium.
For applications requiring the display of large amounts of complex information on a single screen or for visibility from greater distances, larger screens are more suitable. However, to prevent blurring, these larger screens must display at a higher resolution. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the device connecting to the monitor can send high resolution output.
Display resolution is a measurement of the number of pixels present on a screen and is a major component of the overall picture quality that a screen can display. In general, screens with higher resolutions display images with finer detail and clarity compared to lower resolution counterparts, making them well-suited for larger screens.
However, not all applications require high resolution output. If a project requires that the display only shows a few simple objects, a lower resolution display may suffice. Evaluating the project's scope and determining the monitor's specific use is essential before deciding on the required resolution. If unsure, it may be better to err on the side of higher resolution, as this will allow for future growth.
When choosing a new industrial monitor, consider the ambient temperature at the intended location of use as a critical factor. Monitors are designed to operate within specific temperature ranges. Therefore, it is important to select a model capable of sustained operation under the existing conditions in the area where it will be used.
For example, manufacturers typically rate a standard consumer model for operation in temperatures ranging from 0º to 50º C (32º to 122º F), whereas a 'wide temp' model can often sustain use in temperatures ranging from -20º to 60º C (-4º to 140º F). Operating monitors in temperatures outside their specified range may cause display errors or other failures. Therefore, it is best practice to thoroughly evaluate the on-site conditions and select a monitor rated for that specific environment.
Monitors with touch input are a popular choice in many industrial facilities, as they allow operators to quickly interact with controls without the need for a separate input device such as a mouse or keyboard. Monitors with touch capabilities combine user input and data visualization into a single interface, allowing users to view feedback data and take action without looking away from the screen. While there are several different methods of touch input detection, resistive and capacitive touch are the most common styles used in industrial facilities.
Resistive touch input was the first widely adopted form of touch detection. This input method is a pressure sensitive system that consists of two transparent layers of electrode film overlaid on top of each other with a gap between them. When an operator presses down on the screen, the compression of the soft top layer of electrodes contacts the bottom layer, allowing the HMI to detect the location of that point. Screens using resistive touch technology typically cost less than capacitive screens and enable operators to interact with the HMI while wearing gloves or using an object like a stylus to touch points on the screen.
5-wire resistive touch screen technology. Mercury13, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsUnlike resistive touchscreens, capacitive input does not require pressure to activate. Instead, the screen will detect input when it contacts a conductive surface such as bare skin. When the user touches a point, the screen will detect a change of capacitance at that location and register it as input. While capacitive screens are typically more accurate and responsive than a resistive screen, they can be more expensive, and the user must touch the screen with a conductive surface, which may not be practical for some work environments.
Commonly used in modern mobile devices such as phones and tablets, projected capacitive screens use a similar approach to detect input as regular capacitive screens do, but with some critical differences. PCAP screens will still read changes in capacitance to detect touch input, but they are more sensitive, have greater display clarity, and can detect multiple points of input at once, allowing for multi-touch control.
Compared to standard capacitive touch, PCAP screens are generally better at detecting touches when the operator is wearing gloves, though thicker gloves may prevent the screen from detecting input. If there is a need to use a stylus, be aware that it will need to have a conductive material on the tip for a PCAP screen to be able to detect it.
Industrial monitors come with various mounting options to cater to different industrial environments. VESA and RAM mounts offer versatility for different setups while providing a standardized mounting system. Panel and rack mounts are specific to certain industrial settings and are essential for ensuring that the monitors are securely and ergonomically placed in the work environment.
The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) established one of the most popular standardized mounting systems in use today. VESA mounts are widely used because they support a range of movements such as tilting, swiveling, and height adjustment. This versatility makes them ideal for environments requiring frequent adjustment of the viewing angle. Their universal design allows VESA mounts to accommodate a variety of monitor sizes and weights, making them suitable for diverse industrial applications.
RAM (Round-A-Mount) mounts offer robust and flexible mounting solutions with their typical ball and socket system, allowing for almost infinite adjustability. This feature makes them particularly suitable for environments where frequent repositioning of monitors is necessary or where vibration is a concern, such as in vehicles or on heavy machinery. Their popularity also stems from their durability, making RAM mounts a good choice for harsh industrial settings.
Panel mounting involves integrating the monitor into a flat surface, such as a control panel or a wall. This type of mount is common in control rooms, manufacturing floors, and other areas where space is at a premium. Panel mounts offer a sleek and space-saving solution, as the monitor sits flush with the surface, reducing its footprint. They are also less prone to accidental impacts, which is crucial in busy industrial environments.
Designers create rack-mounted monitors for integration into standard equipment racks, commonly found in server rooms, data centers, and communication hubs. These monitors, typically used in network monitoring and server management, are tailored to fit standard 19-inch racks and often feature a foldable design to conserve space. This configuration suits environments where space optimization and centralized control are crucial priorities.
Screen glare can negatively impact an operator's ability to read and understand what is shown on the display, which can lead to increased time-to-decision and user errors. Optical bonding addresses this issue by adding an additional layer of glass to the screen and completely filling any air gap that may exist with optically clear adhesive or resin. Screens with optical bonding have multiple advantages over standard touch screens.
In industrial settings, monitors are often used in brightly lit environments or outdoors, where glare from sunlight or artificial lighting can severely hinder screen visibility. Optical bonding effectively reduces glare and reflections by eliminating the air gap between the glass cover and the display panel. This results in a clearer and more readable display, crucial for operators who rely on these screens for critical information.
The process of optical bonding adds an extra layer of strength to the monitor's display. By filling the gap between the screen and the glass with a resin or adhesive, the screen becomes more resistant to shocks and vibrations. This is particularly beneficial in industrial environments where equipment may be exposed to rough handling or mechanical stress.
In environments with fluctuating temperatures or high humidity, condensation and fogging can occur within the air gap of non-optically bonded screens, obscuring the display. Optical bonding eliminates this air gap, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of condensation and ensuring that the screen remains clear under varying environmental conditions.
The elimination of the air gap also helps in enhancing the contrast and color vibrancy of the display. This is because less light is lost through reflection within the monitor, allowing for a brighter and more vivid image. Better contrast is essential in industrial applications where clarity of display can impact decision-making and operational efficiency.
For industrial monitors with touch screen capabilities, optical bonding can improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch interface. Since there is no air gap, the touch experience is more direct and responsive, which is critical for applications where precision is key.
Monitors with optical bonding are generally more durable and have a longer lifespan. They are less prone to damage from dust and moisture infiltration, common issues in industrial environments. Additionally, the reduced glare and improved contrast mean less eye strain for users, contributing to a more ergonomic work environment.
Optical bonding is a valuable feature for industrial monitors, addressing several challenges faced in harsh industrial settings, and is a critical factor to consider when selecting monitors for such environments.
In brightly lit environments, high-brightness monitors are essential. They ensure the display remains visible and clear under intense light conditions, which is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and safety. Screen brightness is often measured in units known as 'nits'. A typical consumer-grade screen may have an output anywhere between 200-600 nits, while units capable of displaying above nits are classified as high-brightness.
When installing a monitor in a location with glare or high ambient light levels that could hinder an operator's ability to identify screen objects, having a monitor capable of displaying at high brightness levels may be essential for the operator to perform their tasks and monitor values on the screen. Increased brightness also allows for viewing the display from greater distances than would be possible with a standard monitor.
Keep in mind that monitors capable of high-brightness output generate more heat and consume more energy than standard monitors. Make sure that you install the unit in a location where heat can dissipate quickly without affecting other devices.
The viewing angle of an industrial monitor is an important consideration, especially in collaborative spaces or where the monitor is viewed from various positions. As the viewer moves further away from a perpendicular angle in relation to the screen, the contrast and overall visibility will decrease dramatically. A wider viewing angle ensures that the display remains clear and readable from different angles, enhancing the monitor's usability in dynamic industrial environments.
In the diagram shown above, we measure the viewing angle in degrees, starting from the center of the screen and moving outward. In this scenario, the screen's center point stands at 0 degrees, and the value increases up to a maximum of 90º as the viewing angle aligns parallel to the screen. So the output on a monitor that claims to have a 70º viewing angle should remain clearly visible with little to no reduction in contrast until the viewing angle exceeds 70º.
The choice of enclosure material for an industrial monitor is pivotal in determining its durability and suitability for specific environments. Options like aluminum, steel, and stainless steel offer varying degrees of robustness and resistance to environmental factors like dust, moisture, and chemicals.
Challenging environmental conditions and safety regulations may require that a device is certified by a trusted organization to ensure that it is safe to use when exposed to adverse conditions. When installing devices in facilities with high humidity, liquids, dust, or other hazardous materials that can damage sensitive electronics and jeopardize safety and productivity, it is extremely important to ensure the device has certification to operate under the specific conditions of the work site. This kind of certification is often a legal requirement for devices installed in certain environments.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent science and safety organization that evaluates and certifies products, processes, and materials to ensure that they meet industry standards for safety and reliability. UL stands as one of the world's most trusted organizations for safety and reliability testing, and many areas often require their certification.
The UL organization issues this certification specifically for devices used in hazardous locations. Class I, Div 2 certified devices are designed to operate safely in environments where flammable gases or vapors may be present under abnormal conditions.
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) uses a standard rating system to assess electronic devices and determine whether the enclosure used for a device is capable of resisting ingress from water or other potentially damaging materials.
Conformite Europeenne (CE) is a European standard that assesses products to certify that they meet safety, health and environmental protection requirements and is a requirement for devices being sold in much of the European Union.
The European Union adopted the Reduction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) initiative to reduce the harmful effects of dangerous substances on people and the environment. RoHS certification indicates that a product does not contain unsafe levels of chemicals deemed hazardous. This includes testing for heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury, and other potentially dangerous elements.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) developed the Ingress Protection rating system, which measures the ability of a device's housing to prevent dust, moisture, and liquids from entering and damaging the internal components. Defined in the international standard IEC , the IP rating system includes two numbers. The first number shows the housing's protection level against solid foreign objects like dust, while the second number indicates its resistance to water ingress. For instance, IP69 represents the highest rating in this standard, indicating devices that are dust-tight and protected against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets.
The ATEX directive, a certification system developed for use in the EU, assesses whether a device can be used safely in environments with explosive materials. Within the EU, all devices used in hazardous or explosive atmospheres require ATEX certification.
The Federal Communications Commission certification confirms that a device's electromagnetic radiation falls within established limits and should not interfere with other electronic devices' operation in the surrounding area. Any device capable of operating in the radio frequency range of 9 kHz to 3,000 GHz requires FCC certification.
Choosing the right industrial monitor involves balancing various factors such as connectivity, display quality, operational environment, and durability. The right choice not only enhances efficiency but also ensures reliability and longevity in demanding industrial applications. For more information about industrial monitors sold by Maple Systems, please visit our monitor product page.
Would you like to know more? Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team can connect you to the resources you need. For information on pricing, availability, and more, send an message to , or contact our team by at (425) 745-.
Modern workplaces are becoming increasingly digital, and industrial touchscreen monitors provide an easy and efficient way to interact with machines and controls. But keep in mind not every monitor is capable of doing this job. So, the question is how to choose the best industrial touchscreen monitors.
When it comes to picking the right industrial touchscreen monitor, we should keep some important things in mind. You are choosing a screen you will use daily for different jobs. You want to make sure it works well, looks good, and lasts a long time. This is what we mean by the 'key factors to consider when choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor.'
If you want to know more about our Industrial Touchscreen Monitors
Click HereA touchscreen monitor's screen size and picture clarity are two important factors to take into consideration when choosing one.
When choosing the right industrial touchscreen monitors, screen size is the most important thing to keep in mind. Imagine your screen as a big piece of paper. If the paper is big, you can fit a lot of drawings or notes on it and see everything clearly without needing to squint or move things around. A larger monitor works in a similar way. If you have a big screen, you can see more information or pictures all at once without having to scroll up and down too much. This makes it much easier to work on big projects, to check every detail, or to watch videos because everything is bigger and easier to see.
For smaller spaces or simpler tasks, a smaller screen might be just right and cost less. But if you need to see a lot of details or have a big space where people need to see the screen from far away, a larger screen is better. Just remember, a big screen should also have high resolution to make sure everything looks clear and not blurry. So, picking the right screen size helps make your work activities much more easy and enjoyable!
Here is another key factor to keep in mind when picking an industrial touchscreen monitor: resolution. Resolution is crucial because it determines how clear and detailed the images, videos, and information on your screen will appear.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of industrial touch display monitor manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
A high-resolution screen shows everything with greater sharpness and brightness, making it easier to see fine details and read small text. This is especially important in industrial settings where clear visuals are essential for accuracy and efficiency.
For smaller screens, a resolution of at least ×768 pixels is usually sufficient to ensure that text and images look sharp. However, for larger screens, you might want a higher resolution, such as × pixels (Full HD) or even 4K (× pixels), to maintain clarity and prevent any blurriness over a bigger display area.
Choosing the right resolution helps make sure your monitor delivers the best possible visual experience for whatever tasks you need to perform.
When selecting industrial touchscreen monitors, keep touchscreen technology in mind since it plays a crucial role in making your industrial work more efficient and easier. There are four main types of touchscreen technology: resistive, capacitive, PCAP, and infrared. Each type has its own special features.
These screens are like a pair of gloves for your monitor. They work by pressing on the screen with any object, like a stylus or even your finger (even in gloves). They are tough and can handle a lot of wear and tear, which makes them great for harsh environments.
These screens are super responsive and clear. They use the electrical properties of your skin to register touch, so they work best with your finger. They are smooth and easy to use, making them perfect for tasks that need quick and precise touch input.
These screens use beams of infrared light around the edges of the screen. When you touch the screen, you break the beams, and the screen knows where you touched. They are very accurate and can work with any object, but they might be more sensitive to dust and dirt.
These are a type of capacitive touchscreen that uses a grid of tiny sensors placed behind the glass. They can detect multiple touchpoints at once, making them very precise and responsive. PCAP screens are known for their clarity and are often used in modern devices for their smooth and accurate touch experience.
When choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor, it's essential to think about both the monitor's body durability and screen durability. Let's break these down:
The body of the monitor is what houses all the important parts. This part must be strong and built to last. Here are some materials used for the monitor body:
The screen itself needs to be durable to handle everyday use and any potential accidents. Here's how screen durability is improved:
This combination ensures that your industrial monitor display can handle tough conditions and keep working well over time.
When choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor, don't forget about brightness and contrast ratio. These features are key for making sure you can see the screen clearly no matter how far you are.
Brightness is how bright the screen can get. If you want an industrial touchscreen monitor for outdoor use, where the screen might be exposed to direct sunlight, you'll need a monitor with high brightness, usually around 1,000 nits or more. This helps you see the screen clearly even when it's really sunny. For indoor use, a brightness level of around 300 to 500 nits is often enough. This will make the screen clear and easy to read without being too harsh on your eyes.
The contrast ratio is how different the light and dark areas of the screen are from each other. A higher contrast ratio means you can see more details and text clearly, even in darker or dimly lit areas.
In simple terms, a screen with high brightness and contrast will help you see everything clearly, whether you're working in bright sunlight or a dim room. This makes your work easier and more comfortable!
When choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor, it's important to think about connectivity options. These are the different ways you can connect the monitor to other devices and systems, and they play a big role in how well the monitor works in your workplace.
HDMI and DisplayPort are modern connections that provide high-quality video and sound. They offer a clear, sharp picture and are great for connecting to newer computers and devices.
VGA is an older connection that still works well, especially if you're using older equipment. It provides good video quality, but it doesn't carry sound. It's commonly used in many industrial settings where older devices are still in use.
DVI is another video connection that provides a clear picture and is often used in professional settings. It can handle both analog and digital signals, so it works with different types of equipment. Like VGA, it doesn't carry sound.
USB connections are super useful because they let you plug in things like keyboards, mice, or other accessories directly into the monitor. This makes it easier to control the monitor and connect other gadgets.
Ethernet is important if you need to connect your monitor to a network or the internet. It helps with sharing information and accessing online resources.
When picking an industrial touchscreen monitor, don't overlook the viewing angle. This feature is important because it affects how well you can see the screen from different positions.
A wider viewing angle means that the screen remains clear and easy to read no matter where you're looking. Whether you're sitting directly in front of the monitor or standing off to the side, a wide viewing angle ensures that the industrial monitor display looks sharp and legible. This is especially useful in busy work environments where multiple people might need to see the screen at the same time.
Response time is an important factor to consider when choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor. This is the speed at which the monitor reacts to your touch or input.
After you touch or select something on the screen, the response time refers to how quickly the screen updates. A shorter response time means the monitor reacts almost instantly, which reduces any delay or lag. This makes touch interactions smooth and responsive, so you can work faster and more efficiently.
In short, a monitor with a wide viewing angle helps everyone see the screen clearly, no matter where they are positioned. This makes teamwork and collaboration easier and ensures that important information is always visible.
Now, let's keep an eye on another interesting factor to consider when selecting the right industrial touchscreen monitor: An operating temperature range. This tells you the temperatures the monitor can handle while still working properly.
Remember, if you're working in environments that use digital signage monitors or if you're unsure how big a 22 inch monitor is, always check the specifications to ensure it meets your requirements. Whether you're using a BaoBao Technology monitor or another brand, selecting the right industrial touchscreen for your needs is crucial.
You should consider power consumption when choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor. This is about how much electricity the monitor uses while it's turned on.
Power consumption matters because monitors that use less energy are better for the environment and can help save money over time. Energy-efficient models use less electricity, which means lower electricity bills and less impact on the environment.
Look for monitors that have energy-saving features or certifications like ENERGY STAR. These models are designed to use power more efficiently, which is great for long-term savings and for keeping your workspace green.
Mounting options should be considered when purchasing an industrial touchscreen monitor. The monitor can be attached to your workspace in a variety of ways to make sure it looks good and works perfectly.
Mounting options refer to the different ways you can set up your monitor. Here are some common types:
These are standard holes on the back of the monitor that let you attach it to various stands or wall mounts. They're great for flexible setups, allowing you to adjust the monitor's position easily.
These are adjustable and can be attached to different surfaces, like desks or machinery. They let you move the monitor around to find the perfect angle.
These are used to secure the monitor directly into a panel or control board. They are often used in equipment or machines where the monitor needs to be built-in.
These let you install the monitor into a rack or cabinet. They're useful in server rooms or control centers where monitors need to be mounted in a row.
Sometimes, you might need special brackets to fit your unique setup. Custom brackets are made to fit specific requirements, ensuring the monitor is securely attached in the right spot.
It's important to pay attention to maintenance and support when choosing an industrial monitor. Check what help and protection you get if the monitor breaks down.
Maintenance and support include two main things:
This is like a promise from the company that made the monitor. It covers repairs or replacements if the monitor has problems or stops working correctly within a certain time. Look for a warranty that lasts a good amount of time, like one year or more, to make sure you're covered.
This is the help you can get from the manufacturer if you have questions or issues. Check if they offer customer support through , , or live chat. Good support services mean you can get help quickly if you need it.
Make sure the industrial touchscreen monitor you choose is easy to use. This means how easy and comfortable it is to operate the monitor and make changes to its settings.
Ease of use includes two main things:
This is how simple and clear the monitor's controls and menus are. A user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate through different options and settings. It should be straightforward and not too complicated, so you can quickly find what you need without getting frustrated.
These are features that let you change how the monitor works to suit your needs. For example, you might want to adjust the brightness or contrast, or even change the touch sensitivity. Adjustable settings help you customize the monitor so it works best for your specific tasks and environment.
When choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor, it's important to check for certifications. These certifications show that the monitor meets certain safety and quality standards.
Here's what each one means:
When choosing an industrial touchscreen monitor, remember these key factors to consider: screen resolution, touchscreen technology, and durability for tough environments.
Also check the brightness and contrast, connectivity options, and viewing angle, response time for quick touch reactions, and ensure the monitor fits your operating temperature range and is energy-efficient.
Also, consider the mounting options for your setup, maintenance, and support for help if needed, and make sure the monitor has the right certifications for safety and quality.
Keeping these key factors in mind will help you pick the perfect monitor for your needs! With the right choice, the system is not only more efficient but also more reliable and long-lasting in demanding industrial environments.
Touchscreen monitors have a few disadvantages. They can be difficult to use if the screen gets dirty or smudged, making it hard to see clearly. Touchscreen monitors might also be more expensive than regular monitors. They can also be tiring for your arms if you use them for a long time, and sometimes they don't respond well to touch, which can be frustrating.
What is the lifespan of a touch screen?The life of a touchscreen depends on the type it uses. For example, a capacitive touchscreen can last 5 to 10 years if you take care of it. On the other hand, a resistive touchscreen can work for over 200,000 or more touches!
How does a touchscreen monitor work?A touchscreen monitor works by sensing when and where you touch the screen. It uses special technology to detect your finger or a stylus and then shows the action on the screen. It's like a super-smart surface that listens to your touch and reacts right away!
What material works on touch screens?You should use your finger or a special stylus that is made of metal or rubber to control touchscreens since these materials conduct electricity well. The screen senses your touch with the help of these materials. It is best to avoid materials like plastic or non-conductive materials if you plan to use a touchscreen.
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