Military and Defence Solutions
Military IPC Solutions Must Undergo Rigorous Testing for Compliance
Military IPC solutions are required to go through extensive testing for compliance, ensuring safety and efficiency during both indoor and outdoor activities, as well as durability under extreme conditions. The following criteria must be met for a military-grade PC solution to be deemed operational
Electromagnetic Interference
For MIL-STD 461F compliance, provide detailed testing specifications to confirm that the PC product adheres to electromagnetic interference control requirements.
Anti Vibration
Military equipment should meet the US military standard MIL-STD-810F-514.5, C1 / C2 / C3 for vibration resistance, and include M12 connectors for enhanced reliability.
Unstable Power Supply
Power supply units able to handle wide power input and isolation to protect devices from power surges is a generally a must.
Environmental Conditions
For products compliant with MIL-STD 810G, they are tested to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
Certifications
Generally, “off-the-shelf” Military IPC products are always built and tested according to military standards MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461.
MIL-STD-461 is a United States Military Standard that describes how to test equipment for electromagnetic compatibility.
Specifically, MIL-STD-461F details testing specification to ensure the conducted emissions (CE), conducted susceptibility (CS), radiated emissions (RE), and radiated susceptibility (RS) of a system can meet the requirements for the control of electromagnetic interference.
- MIL-STD-461 Method – CE101/CE102: Conducted Emissions
- MIL-STD-461 Method – RE101/RE102: Radiated Emissions
- MIL-STD-461 Method – CS101/CS106/CS109/CS114/CS115/CS116: Conducted Susceptibility
- MIL-STD-461 Method – RS101/RS103: Radiated Susceptibility
The MIL-STD-810 test series are approved for use by all departments and agencies of the United States Department of Defence (DoD).
The standard describes environmental management and engineering processes that can be of enormous value to generate confidence in the environmental worthiness and overall durability of a system design.
- MIL-STD-810 Method 501.4: High Temperature
- MIL-STD-810 Method 502.4: Low Temperature
- MIL-STD-810 Method 507.4: Humidity
- MIL-STD-810 Method 514.5: Vibration
- MIL-STD-810 Method 516.5: Shock
Connectivity
Typically, military Panel PCs and displays come with MIL-DTL-38999 type I and III connectors – high-performance cylindrical connectors for cable-to-panel applications in military, air traffic controller, or situations where their optimisation of device ‘up time’ is paramount.
| MIL-DTL-38999/I Power Connector | MIL-DTL-38999/III VGA/RS-232/USB-A/LAN |
 |  |
Portable, Ruggedized PC Solutions with Touchscreen Interactivity
Rugged Industrial Peli Case PCs are a great alternative to rugged laptops or tablets – providing better protection, IP rating (if required) and space for custom electronics and selectable I/O.
- Custom Sizes: Available in a range of sizes to suit portable to workstation needs.
- High Performance: Powered by Efficient Intel Atom to High Performance Intel Core CPUs for demanding applications.
- Interactive Displays: TFT screens from 7″–21″ with optional touch for easy use.
- Advanced Connectivity: LTE and Wi-Fi ensure reliable, continuous connectivity.
- Flexible Storage: Durable SSD-based storage options for high performance.
- Expansion Ready: Supports mPCI-E, M.2, and PCIe for added functionality.
- Custom Electronics Integration: Bespoke electronics and custom I/O.
- Clear Design: Custom labelling and intuitive interfaces for ease of use.
- Rugged & Secure: IP67-rated protection with lockable components.
- Ergonomic Build: Designed with handles for easy and comfortable transport.
- Long Lifespan: Industrial-grade build with 5–7 year longevity and replacement support.
Why do customers choose our Peli Case PC solutions?
- They’re a great alternative to rugged laptops or tablets – providing better protection, IP rating and space for custom electronics, integrated hardware and selectable I/O.
- They’re a good solution for combining instrumentation and computing in one rugged and portable package.
- Good value where a bespoke – rugged embedded computer solution with HMI is being sought, one that can be protected from its immediate environment.
Touchscreen Panel PCs and Rugged Tablets
For a truly befitting military application, Panel PC products need to have the following processes and features provided to them :-
- Rigorous environmental assessments ensure dependable functionality across extreme temperatures and high moisture levels for practical field application
- Military-grade connections and casings with anti-corrosive treatments
- User-friendly interface options including capacitive OSD or tactile buttons for display adjustments
- Incorporation of optical bonding techniques with either anti-reflective or anti-glare screens, plus optional EMI shielding – enhancing display visibility under various lighting conditions
- Brightness can be finely tuned from 0% to 100%, allowing for precise control over display luminosity
Typically, the products being sought after for a military applications will quite often cross over to the products found in our Harsh Condition and Transportation (Land, Sea, Rail and Air) sections. Our advice at BVM would be speak to us first – as there may be a product that serves your application already fit for harsh environment operation, possessing the prerequisite certifications you need.
Rugged Panel PCs
Ruggedized or Harsh Environment Panel PCs are typically used where Wide Temperature diversity is needed in operation (-40°C to +85°C) and/or where the supply of input voltage can vary or be erratic; ruggedized panel PCs typically can accept 9V-36V DC in. BVM can provide 7″ to 24″ TFT display solutions with PCAP or resistive touch input – and screen readability enhancement features such as high bright LED backlighting, optical bonding and anti-glare or anti-reflecting coatings.
In-Vehicle Panel PCs
In-vehicle Panel PCs solutions are designed to withstand the everyday shock and vibration of vehicle driving and can be viewed from almost any angle through their wide angle viewing capabilities and high bright backlighting. Equipped with wide input voltage (9-36volts DC), wide storage temperature (-30°C to +80°C) and e-marking (E13 certification), andignition control and delay on/off, our in-vehicle panel PC solutions are easy to install (VESA, panel mount or custom).
Defence-Grade Tablets
Defence-Grade Rugged Tablets are engineered for military and government use, ensuring durability and high performance under extreme conditions. These tablets are designed to withstand harsh environments and provide crucial data swiftly, aiding in critical decision-making for defence operations. Key features of these rugged tablets include compliance with military specifications, high IP ratings for superior water and dust resistance, optimal readability under sunlight, and robust connectivity options.
Defence-Displays
Defence-Grade Rugged Displays are engineered for military and government applications, delivering durability and high performance in extreme conditions. These rugged displays are built to withstand harsh environments while providing critical data quickly, supporting fast and informed decision-making in defence operations. Key features include compliance with military specifications, high IP ratings for superior water and dust resistance, excellent sunlight readability, and reliable connectivity options.
System-on-Modules (SOMs)
These features make Computer-On-Modules highly suitable for deployment in demanding conditions where traditional computing hardware might fail
- Energy-efficient and high-performance processors
- Extended temperature range (-40°C to 85°C or more)
- Durable, compact form factor for space efficiency and robustness
- Wide input voltage range compatibility for diverse power sources
- Protective conformal coating against dust, moisture, and chemicals
- Reliable thermal management, often utilizing fanless designs
- Long-term product availability and lifecycle support
- Flexible I/O interfaces (PCIe, USB, Ethernet, display outputs)
- High reliability with low Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF)
- Adherence to industrial and environmental standards
System-On-Module products are the ideal solution for many space-constrained applications
where the build-up of heat within the operating environment can become an issue.
System-On-Modules and Carrier Boards
COM/SOM modules are ideal for applications where product time to market and longevity of solution are critical to your business. Today’s COM modules mainly come in two main formats; COM Express (COMe) in Mini, Compact, Basic and Qseven.
Plugged into carrier boards (baseboard), they can be upgraded to newer, backwards-compatible versions as processor technology capability progresses. COM/SOM modules are typically used in military solutions.
AI-based Military and Defence Solutions
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the military and defence sectors, driving efficiencies, cutting costs, and bolstering security. Developments in AI-powered intelligence, surveillance, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, and logistics are enhancing operations, minimizing human risk, and optimizing resource management. This technology is poised to dramatically reshape defence strategies and operations.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Military and Defence
- Autonomous weapons systems: AI enables more autonomous operation in military devices such as drones and tanks, enhancing navigation, targeting, and engagement capabilities.
- Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance: AI analyses sensor and data sources, improving pattern recognition and situational awareness to support strategic military decisions.
- Language translation: AI facilitates real-time translation for military communications across language barriers, crucial during international missions.
- Training and simulation: AI-powered simulations provide realistic training environments, preparing military personnel for various operational scenarios.
- Cybersecurity: AI detects and mitigates cyber threats, safeguarding military networks through advanced pattern recognition and rapid response mechanisms.
The hardware needed for artificial intelligence (AI) varies based on the application and type of AI. Some algorithms demand powerful resources to function optimally. For instance, deep learning algorithms, used in image and speech recognition, need specialized hardware like graphics processing units (GPUs), which excel in complex matrix calculations, outperforming traditional central processing units (CPUs). In contrast, simpler AI types, such as rule-based systems, can operate on standard CPUs.
BVM Design, Manufacturing and Distribution Services
- Industrial and Embedded Computer Design, Manufacturing and Customisation Services
- Computer-on-Module Carrier Board Design and Manufacturing Service
- COM Express, SMARC, Qseven, Jetson, Pi
- Industrial and Embedded Hardware Distribution
- From Small form factor Fanless Box PCs to Large 4U Rack AI Inference Systems
- 7″ – 32″ Rugged, Industrial Touchscreen Panel PCs
- Industrial Motherboards, Embedded SBCs and Computer-on-Modules
At BVM, we bring over 35 years of experience in designing, manufacturing and distributing industrial and embedded computer hardware. Our dedication to quality and innovation has made us a trusted partner for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators worldwide.
What we Offer OEMs, ODMs and System Integrators
With cutting-edge design and manufacturing facilities in Southampton, complemented by a vast global partner network, BVM offers a variety of ready-made “off the shelf” industrial and embedded computing solutions for a number of industries. These solutions can be completely customised and integrated into larger systems to meet our customers’ exact requirements.
If you can’t find an “off the shelf” product that suits your needs, our in-house design team can create a new solution from scratch.
Military and Defence: Case Studies
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Contact BVM for all your Industrial and Embedded Computing, OEM/ODM design, UK manufacturing or distribution needs. With over 35 years of experience, we supply standard hardware and design custom solutions tailored to your requirements.
Reach our expert sales team on 01489 780144 or email us at sales@bvmltd.co.uk.