The use of computers in remote locations for functions such as monitoring, scada, control and surveillance often means that the computer is operating in extreme temperatures, must communicate using a 3G network and has limited power available, typically solar power.
Temperatures in remote locations such as the Karoo can range from freezing and below to uncomfortably high, particularly if the computer is located in a secure steel enclosure on the top of a hill.
A data collection system or a system being controlled by the computer must usually communicate with a central location. The most common method is normally 3G or some similar protocol. For this the motherboard or the communication card must have SIM slots to enable the cell communication card installed.
Power consumption of the computer can be critical if the system is powered by solar or wind power and relies on battery backup for night time operation or in the event of windless or overcast days. Low power consumption means that costs can be saved as the backup and power systems required do not have to be as powerful.
The EPIC-745E from Centurion Microelectronics is an EPIC form-factor single-board computer with all of these features. The fanless design and wide operating temperature mean that the board can be used in enclosures that exclude dust and dirt. The wide temperature rating of -40°C to +85°C means the board can withstand extremely harsh environments without failing.
The onboard SIM slot and mini PCI slot allow the use of a mini PCI 3G modem or other communication card. Additional features such as SATA, LAN, USB, digital I/O and serial ports ensure that disks, control, monitoring, switches, relays and surveillance equipment can be easily attached.
The power consumption of the board (excluding disks and peripherals) is less than 20 W. Minimal battery or solar power is required to keep the computer running. The onboard watchdog timer also ensures that the computer will reset itself and continue operating in the event of a software or hardware failure.
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