The industrial application of personal computers

Discusses options and issues associated with using personal computers (PCs) in industrial applications. Highlights some of the pitfalls and advantages of using a PC in this environment. The various PC form factors available are presented. These include the familiar ruggedised industrial PC, PC/104 and Compact PCI. An application example from the author’s own experience is presented. Some of the software and operating system issues are touched upon. Possible future developments are discussed.