Industrial PCs

The industrial PCs (IPCs) market research report delivers current market analysis plus a five-year market and technology forecast. The report is available in multiple editions including worldwide, all regions, and most major countries. This market research report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market for industrial PCs.  These are PCs used on the plant floor and are ruggedized to be used in harsh industrial environments.

Edge Computing and AI Drive Growth in Industrial PC Market

​ARC’s Industrial PC market research reveals that some key trends will push future demand for IPCs. These include the emergence of cloud application platforms and the use of IPCs as edge devices to interface with those platforms. Other factors fueling future market growth are the increased product variety and customization of IPCs as well as the importance of IPCs in plant retrofits and upgrades. In calendar year 2020, the industrial PC market experienced a decline as demand from industries dropped due to COVID-19 pandemic-related lockdowns and supply chain disruptions, restricted industrial activities, factory shutdowns, and suppressed orders.

Industrial PCs Strategic Issues

In addition to providing a five-year market forecast, the industrial PCs market research provides detailed quantitative current market data and addresses key strategic issues as follows.

Look for Security Competence of Suppliers

Cybersecurity is and will be a critical concern, and industrial PCs are especially vulnerable to attacks, as their openness makes them vulnerable to dedicated attacks as well as to “hacker kids” and broad online attacks. A series of suppliers offer cyber solutions and support.

Don’t Go for Price Alone

Purchasing price reflects only a small share of costs associated with an IPC. Maintenance and programming time can by far outweigh the cost of high-class controllers. To reduce lifecycle costs, product features such as fanless and SSDs are important, as well as the long run spare part availability.

Challenge the Lifecycle Services

On average a machine is in use for 15 years, some even up to 40 years, while PC technology is changing more rapidly. As a buyer, search for suppliers that provide spare parts, services (updates and security), and equivalent replacement if necessary (same form factor, ability to migrate projects, and software).

Provide Enhancements During Retrofits and Upgrades

If machines or plants are to be upgraded with regard to Industrial IoT applications, an IPC is a good choice. IPCs allow you to easily and quickly add additional functions to expand the capabilities of a plant or machine. The IPC should be selected so that future additional software applications can run on it without any problems.