As RDS explains, there are many variables when choosing the right display for industrial applications, from usage environment to power consumption and display size.
When selecting a display for use in an industrial application, design engineers must consider factors such as display technology, optical performance, durability, continuity of supply and cost of ownership to ensure it meets the application’s needs and can operate reliably in a specific environment.
Environmental durability: Industrial-specification displays have unique characteristics that enable the display to be used in harsh, challenging application conditions, where environmental and mechanical variables such as ambient light, temperature, humidity, vibration and shock can influence the ability of electronic equipment to operate consistently and reliably.
Operating conditions: The operating conditions of a dashboard panel in a forklift truck or a marine navigation system are significantly different from a user interface on a domestic coffee machine or smart meter. Electrical, mechanical and optical specifications and operating characteristics of the display need to be matched to the environmental conditions in which the system will be used.
Optical performance: The optical performance of the display is key in terms of how the end user interprets information and data on the display image. The brightness specification, colour saturation, contrast ratio and viewing angles combined with the application environment will all influence the choice of display technology that is most suitable.
Power efficiency: Power consumption can be a concern in industrial applications, particularly for displays that operate continuously. Low-power display technologies such as e-Paper and Memory-in-Pixel are suitable for applications requiring static images and infrequent updates and can offer significant power savings. However, technologies such as TFT and OLED can provide enhanced optical performance with bright, saturated colours but may consume more power.
Touch capability: Graphical user interfaces are frequently used in industrial applications, enabling operators to simply and easily interact and use the equipment. Projected capacitive (PCap) touchscreens provide a more responsive and intuitive user experience but might not work well in electrically noisy environments. Resistive touchscreens can offer a more durable and functional touch interface in challenging environments.
Longevity of supply: Engineers should prioritise displays with long product availability, ensuring that replacements or components can be sourced for the predicted lifecycle of the product. Manufacturers that offer long-term support and reliability guarantees can help increase sustainability, reduce operational risks and system costs over time.
Cost of ownership: A typical electronics system employing an industrial display, cover glass and touchscreen will also use drive electronics, power supplies, interconnect and mechanical fixtures and fittings. An industrial display will often be the most expensive item on the bill of materials. Engaging with an experienced supplier who can provide multiple components, sub-systems or complete product builds will positively impact the total cost of ownership.