Buying Guide: Describe the Workstation, Then Compare Prices
The pitfalls of an industrial panel PC are not in the specs but in units that will not mount, cannot connect, or cannot run the software. All three can be caught at the sample stage if you ask the right questions and test the right items. Below is a checklist you can use as-is.
10 Questions to Ask During Selection
- How does the operator stand? How high is the screen center off the floor and how far from the person?
- How many content blocks on the interface? Any tables, drawings, videos?
- What software runs at the workstation? Web, APP, or a Windows program?
- What is the scanning distance? Is the code on paper, laminated film, a screen, or DPM?
- How many outlets at the workstation? Can Ethernet be routed? Is POE needed?
- Which peripherals will connect? How many printers, tower lights, scales, PLCs?
- Should the production and office networks be separated?
- What is the mounting structure? Pole, bench, panel cutout, or floor standing?
- What are the conditions? Dust, oil, moisture, temperature, vibration.
- How many units? Are spare units needed? Is OEM required?
What the Quotation Should Specify
| Projects | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Model + screen size + OS | The same size comes in Android and Windows versions at different prices |
| Memory / Storage | The price gap between 4G+64G and 8G+128G is significant; specify the exact configuration instead of just high spec |
| Power Supply | DC and POE are different configurations and are not interchangeable on site |
| Bracket models and quantities | Standard and optional brackets are priced differently; omissions are billed later |
| Optional Modules | NFC, ID card and printing modules are priced per project |
| Warranty and Spare Parts Plan | Batch projects should specify spare units and response time |
| Lead Time and Batches | Projects with customization need first-batch and final-batch dates in writing |
How to Test Samples: Four Checks Are Enough
- Viewing Angle and Touch: Install at the real workstation and have the actual operator try it; confirm no bending, no looking up, and touch works with gloves on.
- Scan Success Rate: Read real labels 50 times in a row and record the failures; repeat at straight, tilted and offset angles.
- Software and Peripherals: Connect the workstation software, printer and PLC and run a full shift; watch for disconnects, stuttering and driver conflicts.
- Power Loss and Network Loss: Unplug the Ethernet cable and power-cycle; confirm no data loss, catch-up upload after recovery, and normal auto-start on boot.
Incoming Inspection Checklist
| Check Item | Pass Criteria |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Screen free of scratches, housing undamaged, silkscreen printing crisp |
| Boot | System starts normally with no errors and no bright or dark screen spots |
| Touch | Corners and center all respond with no drift |
| Scanning | Standard test codes read on the initial pass at common distances |
| Ports | Test Ethernet, serial and USB ports one by one; peripherals are recognized |
| Bracket | Matches the workstation, screws included, easy to remove and reinstall |
| Included Documents | Datasheet, wiring guide, warranty card and peripheral compatibility table |
FAQ
Why do same-size machines vary so much in price?
The difference lies in the display (brightness, touch technology), mainboard (processor and memory), structural parts (tooling and cooling), and certification and testing. List the configuration clearly in the quotation; comparing prices only makes sense at equal configuration.
Should we buy all spare units up front?
For batch projects, budget 3-5% complete spare units, or at least 1-2 rotating spares. Workstation downtime affects the whole line's cycle, and shipping time for factory repair is usually longer than the repair itself.
Can we trial a small batch before scaling up?
Yes. Sample orders are priced per unit; once the trial is confirmed, move to batch production, and sample fees are credited per the contract.
What is the usual lead time?
Standard configurations usually ship in 3-5 business days; batches are scheduled by quantity; projects with silkscreen printing, preinstallation or bracket customization get a per-project lead time.
Describe your workstation and we will provide a configuration you can install directly
Describe the process, cycle time, scanning distance and software environment (MES / ERP / in-house), and we will provide a model, bracket and port proposal within 24 hours.