What are Single Board Computers?
A single board computer integrates essential components like the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), and storage devices onto a single board. Their compact design, low power consumption, and ability to operate in harsh environments make them ideal for a wide array of embedded systems, from medical devices and the Internet of Things (IoT) to industrial automation. Our SBCs, for example, have a very small form factor, with the processor positioned on the underside of the board to allow for better cooling and thermal design.
We have extensive experience in the industrial market, which translates directly to the mission-critical needs of the medical technology sector. Our engineering teams are experts in Designing for Reliability (DFR), using metrics such as Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) to ensure our products are dependable.
Our Offerings for Medical Technology
We offer several SBCs specifically designed for medical applications, including the 2.5-inch Pico-ITX and 3.5-inch ECX, which are well-suited for space-constrained environments. These boards use powerful Intel® processors and are compatible with various operating systems. The KBox B-Series is a fanless system, which is a significant advantage for medical applications as it reduces noise and eliminates a potential point of failure.
Beyond the hardware itself, we provide a complete product lifecycle management, offering up to 10 years of product availability. We also provide value-added services such as custom modifications, detailed documentation, and technical support to ensure successful integration and long-term use.
Real-World Applications and Future Trends
Our components are being used in a diverse range of medical equipment:
- Robotic Assisted Surgical (RAS) Systems: Our SBCs manage high-end image processing and AI in complex surgical platforms.
- Medical Sterilisers: A KBox is used in large steam sterilisers (autoclaves) for surgical instruments.
- Medical Test Kit Kiosks: Our SBCs manage the dispensing functionality and data connectivity of these self-service machines.
Looking ahead, the industry will see more examples of fitting higher performance and features into even smaller embedded boards. Technologies such as AI, 5G, and 3D imaging promise to spur further innovations. We are keeping pace with these trends by using the latest processors and ensuring consistent form factors, which allows our customers to easily upgrade their hardware without costly redesigns.
