Home Q&A
    • 1.What are EDGEBoost Nodes?

      EDGEBoost Nodes are modular hardware performance accelerators for C&T's RCO-6000 Series Industrial Computer. When paired together, EDGEBoost Nodes enable additional GPU and/or NVMe support, and PCIe/PCI expansion options for even greater performance at the rugged edge.
    • 2.What is a C&T EDGEBoost I/O module?

      The EDGEBoost I/O modules are proprietary daughterboards and carrier boards with a particular set of I/O that can be integrated into C&T industrial computers that feature an EDGEBoost bracket.
    • 3.Are EDGEBoost Nodes interchangeable with all RCO-6000 Series industrial computers?

      EDGEBoost Nodes are only compatible with RCO-6000-CFL, RCO-6000-CML Series and future RCO-6000 generations. Most EDGEBoost Nodes are interchangeable with these two series, aside from the SATA and 4NVME-H-1EXP nodes, which are exclusive to the RCO-6000-CML Series.
    • 4.Is the C&T EdgeBoost I/O module compatible with ALL C&T computers?

      No, the EdgeBoost I/O module is designed specifically for specific C&T industrial computers that have an available EDGEboost bracket slot. Make sure your computer model is compatible with the module before adding it into an I/O configuration. Contact our embedded computing experts and they will help configure your computing solution to meet your optimal I/O requirements.
    • 5.Can I use the EDGEBoost Node for other branded industrial computers?

      No, EDGEBoost Nodes are specifically designed to be compatible with C&T’s RCO-6000-CFL and RCO-6000-CML Series industrial computers only.
    • 6.Can EDGEBoost I/Os be installed onto another off-the-shelf computer?

      No, EDGEBoost I/O are proprietary modules that are specifically designed for C&T fanless industrial computers that feature EDGEBoost brackets. Contact us today and our embedded computing experts will help configure your computing solution to meet your optimal I/O requirements.
    • 7.How do EDGEBoost Nodes work?

      EDGEBoost Nodes are connected to compatible RCO-6000 Series Industrial Computers through a PCIe riser card or SAS connector (depending on model). This allows the RCO-6000 Series to maximize PCIe faster throughput and better bandwidth for performance acceleration with a modular approach
    • 8.What are the benefits of EDGEBoost I/O?

      The modular EdgeBoost I/O is an advanced technology that provides a wide range of input and output options for your C&T fanless industrial computers. Many traditional computing systems are limited to the fixed I/O on the motherboard. However, EDGEBoost I/O modules provide a streamlined solution for maximum I/O scale for specific applications.
    • 9.Do EDGEBoost Nodes support NVMe storage?

      Yes, specific EDGEboost Nodes support NVMe storage for real-time data processing and high-speed acquisition.
    • 10.Why are I/O ports important for industrial computers?

      I/O operations are important for computers because they enable communication, enhance functionality, improve performance, and meet user needs. A computer system that offers a range of I/O options can provide better performance and functionality, making it a more versatile and valuable tool for real-time processing for data generation at the edge.
    • 11.What is an EDGEboost Databrick and how does it work with EDGEboost Nodes?

      NVMe-focused EDGEBoost Nodes contain 1-2 EDGEBoost DataBricks. These EDGEBoost Databricks are hot-swappable canisters that hold multiple hot-swappable NVMe U.2 drives (2.5” 7mm or 15mm). They offer a convenient, reliable, and streamlined data offloading process without the need for tools, as well as maximized high-speed storage capacity for enhanced data acquisition.
    • 12.Are EDGEBoost I/O modules required to be installed into C&T industrial computers?

      No, but it depends on the application requirements and specific I/O demands. All C&T industrial computers come with fixed I/O directly on the motherboard that cover popular I/O requirements (see product data sheets for I/O layouts). EDGEBoost I/O modules are optional and provide additional I/O, NVMe storage, or even AI acceleration if needed through a modular design approach.
    • 13.Do EDGEBoost Nodes support a GPU? What about active cooling?

      Yes, specific GPU and PWR nodes, support a GPU for real-time AI inferencing and various computer vision applications. EDGEBoost Nodes that support GPUs also include a hot-swappable active cooling fan for thermal regulation and easy maintenance.  Only specific GPU models have been tested and validated to work with C&T EDGEboost Nodes; contact us to learn more about compatible GPUs.
    • 14.Is it possible to change or replace EDGEBoost I/O modules?

      Yes. EDGEBoost I/O are designed to be modular, making it easy to swap them out for a maintenance-free upgrade for different I/O demands. The modular design allows for easy upgradability and configurability to the fanless industrial computer. Please contact our embedded computing experts for more information about upgrades or replacements.
    • 15.What are EDGEBoost Nodes that offer PCI/PCIe expansion slots used for?

      EDGEBoost Nodes with PCI/PCIe expansion slots can be utilized for various applications. High-speed network cards, video capture cards, and even GPUs are a few examples of how expansion slots are used.
    • 16.Which EDGEBoost I/O modules support m.2 AI accelerators and NVMe storage?

      The Edge AI category of our EDGEBoost I/O modules (EBIO-M2MK and EBIO-2M2BK) offer m.2 socket support for validated m.2 AI acceleration and NVMe storage. Please see the module datasheet for specific m.2 socket size options.
    • 17.Can the EDGEBoost Node run complex edge AI algorithms?

      Specific EDGEBoost Nodes with GPU support, when paired with compatible RCO-6000 Series, are capable of processing edge AI models for real-time AI inferencing depending on the software for the application.
    • 18.How many additional I/O ports can be added with EDGEBoost I/O?

      The amount of additional I/O ports will depend on how many EDGEBoost Brackets the industrial computer supports. Contact us today and our embedded computing experts will help configure your computing solution to meet your optimal I/O requirements.
    • 19.Do EDGEBoost Nodes support redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID)?

      Specific EDGEBoost Nodes with NVMe and SATA Storage offer software or hardware RAID options for data redundancy and integrity; see datasheet for RAID level supported.
    • 20.Are EDGEBoost I/O modules durable and reliable?

      Yes, EDGEboost I/O modules are completely tested and validated to withstand the same ruggedized harsh environments that our C&T fanless industrials computers are tested in.
    • 21.When would an EDGEBoost Node be needed?

      Depending on the deployment and specifications, an EDGEBoost Node would be necessary to streamline edge AI inferencing and/or require high-capacity NVMe storage. Contact us to speak with one of our experts for the best configuration to meet your edge AI computing needs.
    • 22.Are EDGEBoost I/O modules cross-compatible with multiple model generations?

      Yes, please review the EDGEboost I/O module compatibility list or contact our embedded computing experts for more information on EDGEBoost I/O configuration.
    • 23.What Separates Modular Touchscreens Computers from other Panel PCs?

      The VIO Series Modular Touchscreen Computers are the only panel PC with MDM technology. MDM stands for Multi-Mode Display Module, is a technology that enables a combination of the industrial screen with monitor module or PC module to match different industrial deployments.

      Learn More About MDM Industrial Panel PCs
    • 24.What Is an Industrial Computer?

      An industrial computer is a specific type of computing system engineered to manage a variety of factory and industrial workloads for machine automation, manufacturing equipment and new-age autonomous robotics.

      Learn More About Industrial Computer and How It Is Different From Commercial Computer
    • 25.Can EDGEboost Nodes be purchased separately?

      No, each EDGEboost Node can not be purchased separately and requires a C&T RCO-6000 Series industrial computer in order to operate. Contact us to speak with one of our experts for the best configuration to meet your edge AI computing needs.
    • 26.What Are Some Major Benefits of Modular Touchscreen Computers?

      • Hundreds of system configuration selections   
      • Maximum flexibility and scalability.   
      • Installation service and upgrade efficiently   
      • A cost-effective, versatile solution   
      • IP65 industrial display panel with size from (4:3) 10.4" to (16:9) 23.8".   
      • Resistive or capacitive (PCAP) touch option   
      • Various Intel® processor generation, memory, storage, operating system selection 
    • 27.What Are The Major Benefits for Industrial Computers?

      • Workload Consolidation: Industrial computers have the processing capacity to accomplish several tasks simultaneously, reducing hardware footprint
      • IoT Connectivity: Rich wired I/O and wireless connection technologies incorporate legacy and leading-edge equipment, and data transmissions from remote and mobile environments.
      • Reliability: Intelligent design and rugged features fortify industrial computers against the severe and challenging physical factors encountered in a variety of industrial environments
      • Scalability: Industrial computers boast modular design allowing for interchangeable expansion options.
      • Security: Trusted platform modules with TPM 2.0 standards enable hardware boot security, encryption and cybersecurity protections.

      Learn More About The Benefits of Industrial Computer
    • 28.What are the benefits of using C&T's EDGEBoost Nodes technology in industrial edge AI operations?

      EDGEBoost Nodes offer a scalable, expandable, and flexible future-proof solution to industrial edge AI deployment operations. With capabilities for GPU and NVMe storage support, EDGEBoost Nodes offer a seamless performance upgrade with little maintenance required to effectively run edge AI models. Some other benefits include: Easy maintenance, Faster Time-to-Market, and a Portable Design.
    • 29.What Are Some Successful Deployment Applications for MDM Modular Panel PCs?

      • Kiosk and Retail 
      • Factory Automation 
      • Intelligent Transportation
    • 30.What Is a Machine Vision Computers?

      Machine Vision (MV) is the integration of hardware and software used to assist computers in making decisions by analyzing videos and images. All MV computers are comprised of two key components: a hardware platform and vision software. The hardware platform is the computer working in conjunction with various devices such as cameras, capture cards, and data acquisition modules to enable it to capture videos or images. As a results, MV has expanded its applications in high-end surveillance/security, biomedical imaging, and even vision guided robotics/vehicles. With advancements in vision technology, machines are increasingly capable of greater functions to meet strategic goals of industry. 

      Learn More About Machine Vision Computer
    • 31.How does C&T's AI Edge Inference Computer work with the EDGEBoost Nodes to provide optimal low-latency, resiliency, and secure AI solutions?

      EDGEBoost Nodes follow the same design principles as AI Edge Inference Computers for optimized edge computing performance: ruggedized design with certifications (CE, FCC, UL) to operate reliably in harsh industrial conditions/environments, NVMe and GPU acceleration for real-time data processing/AI inferencing, & data security/integrity with RAID support.
    • 32.What Separates Washdown Touchscreen Computers From Other Panel PCs?

      The SIO Series Washdown Touchscreen Computer are the only fully-sealed panel PC with IP66/IP69K rating for high pressure, high temperature washdowns. High-grade Type 316 stainless steel enclosures provide exceptional corrosion resistance to a range of caustic media. Other ruggedized features optimize the performance and extend the lifetime of the SIO series for wet and hygienic environments.

      Learn More About IP69K Touchscreen Display
    • 33.What Is an Industrial GPU Computer?

      An industrial GPU computer is a rugged, edge computing solution that utilizes a dedicated GPU (Graphical Processing Unit) card for computationally intensive applications requiring advanced image processing and machine vision/intelligence. In addition, our industrial GPU computers have been tested and validated to comply with high shock/vibration standards, wide operating temperatures, and over-voltage/reverse polarity protections.  

      Learn More About Industrial GPU Computer
    • 34.What are some key market examples of where EDGEBoost Node technology can be applied?

      Industrial Automation, Security & Surveillance, Intelligent Transportation, and similar rugged edge AI applications requiring machine vision are key market verticals where EDGEBoost Node technology excels.
    • 35.What Is A Single Board Computer (SBC)?

      SBC or Single Board Computer is a completely functional computer configuration that is built onto a single circuit board. Parts and components in a computer that are normally built independently (such as a microprocessor, memory, I/O, and more) from the PCB are now soldered together onto a single circuit board.    

      Learn More About Single Board Computer (SBC)
    • 36.What Are Some Major Benefits of Washdown Touch Screen Computers?

      • Engineered For Rugged And Challenging Deployments
      • IP66/IP69K rating permits intense washdowns for hygienic spaces
      • Continuous operation throughout washdowns
      • Fanless Design Extends Reliability
      • Industrial-Grade I/O and Components
      • Durable Stainless Steel Enclosure
      • IoT Ready for Robust Wireless Connectivity

      Learn More About The Benefits of VIO Series
    • 37.What Market Segments or Business Applications Do Industrial GPU Computers Fit Into?

      Computer / Machine Vision 

      Production line inspection 
      Medical Imaging 
      Metrology Imaging 
      Facial Recognition

      Navigation

      Autonomous Vehicle 
      Pathfinding

      Automation

      Autonomous Vehicle 
      Pathfinding 

      Artificial Intelligence

      Deep Learning 
      Machine Learning
    • 38.What Is an Industrial Motherboard?

      An industrial motherboard is an industrial-grade printed circuit board located within the computer case and serves as a platform that provides connectivity and expandability for most computer hardware components.   
    • 39.What Does The IP66/IP69K Rating Mean for SIO Series Washdown Touchscreen Computers?

      The IP66/69K rating certifies the SIO series’ resistance to dust and water ingress. The fully-sealed washdown touchscreen computer can withstand intensive high-pressure, high-temperature washdowns required for sanitation and quality control in hygienic or aseptic settings
    • 40.What Are 5 Key Characteristics of a Rugged Edge Computer?

      • Wireless Connectivity: Access to wireless communications in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular 4G LTE, and future technologies enable rugged edge computers to integrate into modern infrastructure as the number of wireless sensors and devices grows exponentially.   
         
      • Mobility and Remote Deployment: rugged edge computers are designed with small form factors and rugged qualities for mobile and remote integration, where applications often have space-fitting constraints and harsh operating conditions.  
         
      • Performance Accelerators: increased compute capabilities are a major driving force for rugged edge computing. Performance accelerators in the form of more powerful microchips (CPU, GPU, VPU) and faster storage drives empower IoT applications with real-time processing through an edge computing solution.
           
      • Variety of I/O Ports and Expandability: the flexibility of rugged edge computers to interconnect with a wide variety of legacy and modern devices, controllers, or machinery allow the computers to capture valuable data insights for actionable results.   
         
      • Ruggedness and Hardware Security: our rugged edge computers are known for their durability to operate in harsh environments with 24/7 mission-critical reliability. Purpose-built for rugged deployments mean a true fanless design, wide operating temperatures, wide voltage inputs, and shock and vibration resistance. In addition to strengthened rugged qualities, cryptographic security is essential to protect digital data communications between devices from external attacks.   

      Learn More About Edge Computing
    • 41.What Are The Benefits of Implementing Single Board Computer (SBC)?

      Industrial-Grade Single Board Computer (SBC) allows high levels of integrations, reduced components, and connector counts. These features allows the industrial computers to operate in smaller, lighter, and power-efficient deployments. As a result, they are used in various applications from industrial automation, automotive computers, health care, and even military applications.

      Learn More About The Benefits of SBCs
    • 42.What Are Some Successful Deployment Applications for Washdown Touchscreen Computers?

      • Food and Beverage Processing 
      • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing 
      • Cleanrooms
    • 43.What Is an In-Vehicle Computer?

      An in-vehicle fanless computer is an industrial edge-computer designed to sustain the rigors of vehicular environments while monitoring, analyzing, and processing data from various sensors and devices required for Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) applications. With added GPS and wireless data capabilities, in-vehicle computers are able to integrate IoT devices for advanced telematics and machine-to-machine communications.  

      Learn More About In-Vehicle and Smart Transportations
    • 44.What Are The Different Form Factors of Industrial Motherboards?

      Different form factors of industrial motherboards match various industrial deployments, such as standard ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, 3.5” SBC, Pico-ITX, and the smallest 1.8” Femto-ITX.   

      Learn More About Industrial Motherboard Form Factors
    • 45.Why Are Waterproof Touchscreen Computers Different Than Other Regular Panel PCs?

      The WIO Series Waterproof Touchscreen Computer is different than regular panel pcs because of its unique fanless design, super-tough stainless-steel housing, and IP66 resistance, all purpose-built for the harshest underground mining equipment.

      Learn More About WIO IP66 Rugged Panel PCs
    • 46.What Is E-Mark Certification and Why Is It Important for In-Vehicle Computers?

      E-Mark is an European mark required for all vehicles and electronic subassemblies. Products that are E-mark certified indicate they comply with local European laws and regulaions for in-vehicle usage. Therefore, our in-vehicle computers are E-mark certified ensuring all the external ports are EMC certified for in-vehicle usage and the system as whole will not cause any type of electromagnetic inference (EMI) with other Electronic Sub Assembly (ESA) installed. 

      Learn More About E-Mark Certified In-Vehicle Industrial Computer
    • 47.What Are Some Major Beneftis of Industrial Motherboards?

      • Durability and Reliability: industrial motherboards are built with industrial-grade components and tested and validated to withstand wide operating temperature and shock and vibrations.   
      • Longevity: all parts and pieces used in making industrial motherboards are selected carefully; this includes selecting specific capacitors, resistors, power chokes, and many more items. This allows the industrial motherboard to achieve better electrical performance and more stable system performance despite deployments in harsh environments.   
      • Versatility and Compatibility I/O: industrial motherboards are configurable to support a variety of I/O options for legacy technologies and the latest technologies.   
    • 48.What Does the IP66 Rating Mean for WIO Series Waterproof Touchscreen Computers?

      WIO Series is tested and validated for an IP66 Rating. The IP Rating ingress protection ratings follows a standardized rating system to measure the level of protection to solids (dust, debris) and liquids (water, oils, and chemical agents).
    • 49.What Specific Technology Is Built Into In-Vehicle Computers?

      Power ignition control:  

      A fundamental design feature for in-vehicle computers links the power supply to the engine ignition system. It allows users to control the on/off delay time setting to ensure proper startup and prevent the risk of losing data from sudden shutdowns.   

      Power Protection 

      Power protection features undervoltage, overvoltage, reverse polarity, and overcurrent protections. These features provide extra protection to prevent circuit malfunction or damaged electrical components. 

      Rugged, Fanless, And Wide Temperature Design  

      Vibrations are one of the most common causes of computer system failures. Heavy oscillations can potentially cause a loose cable or damage sensitive electrical components, which is why C&T features a cableless and fanless solid state design to improve rigidity. C&T in-vehicle computers have been tested and validated to sustain 50G shock and 5Grms vibrations. Wide operating temperature ranging from -25°C to 70°C to ensure continuous operation under adverse conditions.   
    • 50.What Is Conformal Coating?

      Conformal coating is a method of applying a thin layer of polymeric film on the PCB to add additional protection for the printed circuit board’s components. This coating increases the motherboard’s ability to withstand dust, moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperature exposures.   
    • 51.What Are Some Successful Deployment Applications for Waterproof Touchscreen Computers?

      • Surface and Underground Mining 
      • Food and Beverage Processing 
      • Smart Agricultre and Farming
    • 52.What Is The EN50155 Railway Certification and Why Is It Important for Rolling Stock Trains?

      EN50155 is an international certification covering computers used on rolling stock for railway applications. Designing computers for railway poses some unique challenges due to the harsh and constant vibrational environment with limited space availability. The four critical elements include shock and vibration resistance, electromagnetic compatibility rating, operational temperature rating, and power protection ratings.  
    • 53.Is it possible to use both EDGEBoost I/O modules and EDGEBoost Nodes?

      Yes, it is possible. The RCO-6000 series has a split-architecture design that allows for the simultaneous use of customizable EDGEBoost I/O modules and EDGEBoost Nodes.