Industrial computers are generally larger than commercial PCs and can be customized to meet specific application requirements. They may be customized or off the shelf. Most major providers of industrial computers offer all three types of platforms. Special-purpose industrial computers may require the use of a vendor's design manufacturing services, ensuring that all aspects of the computer are appropriate to the application. In general, however, industrial computers are best for applications where space and weight constraints are critical.

Many industrial applications require a high-power computer, and industrial PCs typically have the highest RAM and processor options. They must be able to handle the varying voltage, which can damage some computer models. Because of their limited use in different environments, most industrial computers come with wide-range voltage input capabilities. This flexibility ensures that these systems don't get damaged if the software or hardware upgrades are necessary. They are usually enclosed in rackmount servers, but they can also be portable.

Industrial computers are typically installed in hard-to-reach places. Consumer applications typically operate only five to eight hours per day. They must be durable enough to withstand long-term operation and must avoid physical damage. This type of computer often requires components that can withstand continuous operations. These components include SSDs instead of HDDs, and industrial PCs must be fanless. Those features are vital in rugged tablets and rugged industrial PCs.

Industrial PCs are typically found in applications that operate 24 hours a day. In contrast, a consumer application may operate only eight hours a day. Despite their relatively low operating hours, industrial PCs are generally hard-to-access and install in places that have a lack of access. The components used in industrial computers are made to withstand continuous operation. The most popular choices for storage include SSDs and fans.

Commercial PCs are designed to operate at a lower temperature than industrial PCs. As such, they are often optimized for use in high-volume environments and require multiple expansions. They are typically more rugged and are typically used for multiple purposes. They are also generally smaller than commercial PCs. Consequently, they are easier to maintain and have greater reliability. You can install and upgrade an industrial PC on any number of machines.

While commercial computers are typically used in office settings, industrial PCs are designed for harsh, compact conditions. Some industrial embedded computers are installed in vehicles, making them an excellent choice for these environments. They can endure shock, vibrations, and high temperatures. A fanless industrial computer is ideally suited for a rugged surveillance environment. Then again, there are other common applications where industrial PCs are most beneficial. The most popular uses of these computers are in the military.

Industrial computers are typically installed in applications where they are required to run around the clock. This is not the case with consumer PCs, which only operate for a few hours at a time. For this reason, industrial computers are usually not installed in common offices, but in hard-to-access locations. Further, the computers are designed for use in extreme environments. They are often more durable than ordinary laptops. They are also more resistant to heat and chemicals than consumer PCs.

Industrial computers are typically used in environments where continuous operation is the norm. Consumer computers, on the other hand, are usually only used in the office environment. An industrial PC has a long life cycle, but the average consumer computer is discontinued after six to twelve months. This can lead to unwanted side effects. The software installed on one system may not work on another, and new versions of the hardware can have issues with the software. A factory's IT department is better equipped to support the industrial computer's operating system.

Industrial computers are usually installed in applications where they need to be on the go. In contrast, consumer PCs are only used for five hours a day. Unlike industrial PCs, commercial PCs have several expansion needs. For example, an industrial computer will support legacy devices, while newer machines may be compatible with the latest digital universal serial bus connectors. For these reasons, industrial PCs are generally preferred over desktops.