Understanding CPU Size in Industrial Computing

In industrial computing, "CPU size" refers to the physical dimensions and form factor of the central processing unit (CPU) package, which is a key factor in determining the overall size, thermal design, and application suitability of the computer system. However, when evaluating products, it is more practical to consider the processor's technical specifications—such as core count, frequency, cache, and architecture—as these directly define performance and capability. The physical CPU package itself (e.g., BGA, FCBGA) is integrated by the manufacturer and dictates the minimum possible size of the motherboard and, consequently, the entire device.

Key CPU Specifications and Performance Indicators

The performance of an industrial computer is defined by several critical CPU parameters, not its physical dimensions. Key specifications to consider include:

• Cores/Threads: Determines multitasking ability and parallel processing power. More cores are better for multi-threaded applications.

• Max Frequency (GHz): Indicates the speed of a single core, crucial for single-threaded performance.

• Cache (MB): A small, fast memory on the CPU that stores frequently accessed data, significantly impacting processing speed.

• Generation & Architecture: Newer generations (e.g., Intel 12th/14th Gen) offer improved performance, power efficiency, and integrated features.

• Thermal Design Power (TDP): While not always listed, this indicates heat output and power consumption, influencing cooling system design and form factor.

Application-Based CPU Selection

Choosing the right CPU depends entirely on the intended industrial use case:

• Lightweight & Embedded Tasks (ARM Processors): Ideal for digital signage, thin clients, and kiosks. The ARM-based Micro series (Cortex A53/A55) offers excellent power efficiency for always-on, fanless operations.

• General-Purpose & Edge Computing (Intel N-Series/Entry i3): Suitable for POS systems, lightweight HMIs, and IoT gateways. Processors like the Intel N100 and i3-1215U provide a balance of performance and efficiency in compact form factors like the Treo and IPC1.

• Demanding Industrial Applications (Intel Core i5/P-Series): Necessary for machine vision, automation control, and data analytics. The high core counts and turbo frequencies of CPUs like the i5-1250P (12 cores, 4.4 GHz) in the IPC5 or the latest i5-120U (10 cores, 5.0 GHz) in the Aero Mini PC handle complex computations reliably.

Comparative Overview of CPU Tiers

The following table summarizes how different CPU specifications in Thinvent's portfolio cater to varying performance needs:

Thinvent's Range of Products with Optimized CPU Solutions

Thinvent designs its industrial computing solutions around purpose-selected CPUs to ensure optimal performance for every scenario. Our Micro series utilizes power-efficient ARM processors for ultra-compact, fanless designs perfect for space-constrained and always-on deployments. The Treo and IPC1 series leverage Intel's efficient N-series and Core i3 processors, delivering reliable x86 compatibility in rugged mini-PC form factors for edge computing. For the most demanding industrial environments, the IPC5 and Aero series are equipped with high-core-count Intel Core i5 and P-series processors, providing the computational muscle needed for complex control systems and data-intensive tasks. This tiered approach ensures that every customer finds a system with the right balance of CPU performance, power draw, and form factor for their specific industrial application.