Maintaining Certification: Can You Replace RAM or SSDs in Certified Industrial Systems?

Can You Replace RAM or SSD in Certified Industrial Systems?

In the fast-paced world of industrial and embedded computing, maintaining system reliability is critical. One common question from engineers and IT managers is whether components like RAM or SSDs can be upgraded or replaced in certified systems without compromising compliance or safety. At BVM, we supply and support industrial-grade hardware and want to clarify what is possible — and what isn’t.

Why Industrial-Grade Parts Matter

Industrial and embedded systems are built for demanding environments. From manufacturing floors to medical facilities, these systems must perform reliably under extreme conditions such as temperature fluctuations, vibration, dust, and humidity. To ensure this reliability, industrial-grade components like RAM, SSDs, and motherboards are rigorously tested to meet strict certifications.

Using standard consumer-grade components in these systems can lead to failures, downtime, and even safety risks. Industrial-grade parts are specifically designed to maintain performance and durability in critical applications.

Developing a Prototype: Commercial vs. Industrial Components

When developing a new industrial or embedded system, creating a prototype is a crucial step before full-scale production and certification. Choosing the right components at this stage can save time, cost, and potential compliance headaches later.

Commercial Components for Early Prototyping

For initial prototypes, using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components can be cost-effective and flexible. They allow rapid testing and proof-of-concept development without the high cost of industrial-grade parts. Commercial RAM, SSDs, and motherboards are widely available, making it easy to iterate quickly and test functionality.

However, while commercial components are suitable for functional testing, they are not certified for industrial, medical, or hazardous environments. They may fail under vibration, extreme temperatures, or electromagnetic interference, so they should never be used in production or certified systems.

Industrial Components for Pre-Certification Prototypes

As the design matures and moves toward certification, it’s important to switch to industrial-grade components. These parts are tested to withstand harsh environments, ensure long-term reliability, and meet certification standards. Using industrial components in pre-certification prototypes helps:

• Validate performance under real-world conditions
• Ensure compatibility with certification requirements (medical, marine, ATEX, etc.)
• Reduce risk of costly redesigns later in the development process

By combining commercial parts for early testing and industrial-grade components for pre-certification prototypes, developers can balance cost, speed, and compliance while preparing for a successful final product.

Why Components Often Cannot Be Changed

Once a system has been certified — for example under medical certifications (IEC60601-1/UL60601), marine standards (IEC60945, DNV), or hazardous environment certifications (ATEX, IECEx) — every component in the system is documented. Changing even seemingly minor parts like RAM or SSDs can invalidate the certification.

For example:

• A medical-grade system tested with RAM part number 123456 cannot automatically switch to a new RAM stick, even if it has the same specifications, without re-evaluation.
• Similarly, SSDs approved for use in hazardous environments are tested for temperature tolerance and vibration. Swapping them with another part number could compromise safety and compliance.

These rules ensure that the system continues to operate safely and reliably in critical industrial applications.

Industries and Certifications Impacted

Industries relying on certified systems include:

• Healthcare: Medical devices with UL60601-1 and IEC60601-1 certifications
• Marine: Navigation and monitoring systems compliant with IEC60945 and DNV
• Energy & Oil/Gas: Hazardous environment systems certified for ATEX and IECEx
• Manufacturing & Automation: Industrial PCs meeting rugged and extended temperature standards

In each case, maintaining the integrity of certified components is essential to stay compliant and protect both equipment and personnel.

Parts That Can Be Changed — Exceptions

Some components are designed to be user-serviceable, such as:

• Standard storage drives (if certified models are specified)
• Batteries or power modules in specific, approved ranges
• Certain I/O expansion cards approved for the system

However, even these changes must be documented and validated according to the device’s risk assessment and certification requirements. Always check with the manufacturer or certification body before making any modifications.

Contact BVM for Expert Guidance

Upgrading or replacing components in certified industrial systems requires experience and careful planning. At BVM, we have over 35 years of experience supplying, designing, and manufacturing industrial and embedded computer hardware. Our team can advise you on approved parts, system upgrades, and maintaining compliance.

📞 Call our sales team on 01489 780144 or 📧 Email sales@bvmltd.co.uk

Trust BVM to help you maintain certified, reliable, and high-performance systems.