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Understanding MIL-STD-810
MIL-STD-810 is a military standard established by the U.S. Department of Defence to define the durability and reliability of equipment under extreme environmental conditions. This standard ensures that devices, including rugged PCs, can withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, humidity, shock, vibration, and dust.
Why MIL-STD-810 Matters for Rugged PCs
Industrial and embedded computing applications often require hardware that operates reliably in challenging environments. MIL-STD-810 compliance guarantees that rugged PCs are tested against real-world stressors, making them ideal for industries such as manufacturing, transportation, defence, and field research.
MIL-STD-810G vs MIL-STD-810H: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD-810H is that 810H is the updated version, incorporating newer testing methods and improved environmental simulations based on modern military and industrial needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
MIL-STD-810G (2008)
- Covered tests for shock, vibration, temperature extremes, dust, humidity, and water resistance.
- Released in 2008, it was an update to previous MIL-STD-810F.
- Included 24 laboratory test procedures to simulate extreme environmental conditions.
- Widely adopted for rugged industrial and military-grade electronics.
MIL-STD-810H (2019)
- Introduced modernized testing protocols for electronic components and materials.
- Released in 2019, replacing 810G with refined test methods and new environmental simulations.
- Introduced updated vibration, shock, and temperature testing based on real-world military field data.
- Added tests for sand and dust exposure, high-altitude operation, and extended freeze-thaw cycles.
- Improved water immersion tests to reflect actual use cases in industrial and defense applications.
Which is Better?
- MIL-STD-810H is the latest and most comprehensive standard, ensuring greater durability and reliability.
- Devices tested under MIL-STD-810H have gone through stricter and more realistic conditions compared to 810G.
- However, MIL-STD-810G is still widely recognized and accepted, especially in industries that have not yet transitioned to 810H standards.
If you need rugged computing solutions, choosing MIL-STD-810H-certified devices will ensure you have the most up-to-date durability testing. However, MIL-STD-810G remains a solid benchmark for rugged reliability.
Key Testing Criteria of MIL-STD-810
Rugged PCs undergo extensive testing under MIL-STD-810, including:
- Temperature Extremes – Tested for performance in extreme heat and cold.
- Humidity Resistance – Ensures reliable operation in high-moisture environments.
- Shock and Vibration – Protects against drops, impacts, and vibrations from transportation or heavy machinery.
- Dust and Sand Resistance – Ensures durability in dusty industrial sites or desert conditions.
- Altitude Testing – Verifies operation in high-altitude environments with low atmospheric pressure.
The Benefits of MIL-STD-810 Certified Rugged PCs
- Enhanced Durability – Built to last in extreme environments, reducing the risk of failure.
- Reliable Performance – Ensures continuous operation in critical applications.
- Lower Total Cost of Ownership – Reduces downtime and maintenance costs over time.
- Versatility Across Industries – Used in military, industrial automation, transportation, and field applications.
Choosing the Right MIL-STD-810 Rugged PC
When selecting a rugged PC for your business, consider factors such as processing power, connectivity options, power efficiency, and compatibility with existing systems. Partnering with an experienced supplier ensures that you receive expert guidance in choosing the best solution for your specific needs.
Contact BVM for Industrial and Embedded Computing Solutions
At BVM, we have over 35 years of experience supplying, designing and manufacturing industrial and embedded computing hardware. If you need a MIL-STD-810-compliant rugged PC, our expert team is ready to help.
Contact our sales team today:
Phone: 01489 780144 Email: sales@bvmltd.co.uk
Let us help you find the perfect rugged computing solution for your business!
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BVM supply a wide and diverse range of Industrial and Embedded Systems.
From Industrial Motherboards, SBCs and Box PCs, to Rack Mount computers and Industrial Panel PCs. Our support teams have worked in a variety of industrial and embedded environments and consequently provide knowledge, know-how, experience and all round good advice around all BVM’s products & services when and where you need it.
We don’t profess to know everything you need at the time – but we’ll always help in the first instance and get back to you when a little more information is required.
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