An EN 50155 certified computer is a specialized industrial computing device designed and tested to meet the rigorous EN 50155 railway standard. This European norm defines the environmental, electrical, and operational requirements for electronic equipment used on railway rolling stock, ensuring reliability and safety in demanding transit applications.
Key Specifications and Technical Details
EN 50155 compliance mandates strict adherence to several critical parameters. Key specifications include a wide operating temperature range (typically -25°C to +70°C), resistance to shock and vibration, and immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Electrically, these computers must withstand significant input voltage fluctuations, often supporting a nominal 24V or 110V DC input with a wide tolerance (e.g., 9V to 36V DC or 66V to 154V DC). They also require protection against power supply transients, surges, and interruptions. Most models feature a fanless, sealed design for dust and moisture resistance, contributing to long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.
Use Cases and Applications
EN 50155 computers are essential for mission-critical systems in the transportation sector. Primary applications include:
-
Train Control and Management Systems (TCMS): For monitoring and controlling train functions.
-
Passenger Information Systems (PIS): Driving displays for schedules, announcements, and safety messages.
-
Video Surveillance (CCTV): Onboard security and monitoring.
-
Diagnostics and Condition Monitoring: Real-time tracking of train subsystem health.
-
Onboard Entertainment and Wi-Fi Gateways: Providing passenger connectivity and services.
Comparison: Standard vs. EN 50155 Industrial Computers
| Feature | Standard Industrial Computer | EN 50155 Certified Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 40°C or 50°C | -25°C to +70°C (or wider) |
| Input Voltage Range | Tight tolerance (e.g., 12V ±5%) | Wide range (e.g., 9V to 36V DC) |
| Shock & Vibration | Basic resistance | Certified to high railway levels |
| EMI/EMC Immunity | Commercial/Industrial grade | Stringent railway-specific testing |
| Design Philosophy | Reliability for fixed environments | Reliability for mobile, harsh environments |
Thinvent EN 50155 Certified Solutions
Thinvent offers a range of robust, fanless industrial computers engineered for EN 50155 railway environments. Our solutions, like the Aero Mini PC series, are built with durable components and designed to operate reliably under extreme temperature, vibration, and electrical stress. They support flexible operating systems, including Windows IoT, Linux, and Ubuntu, and can be configured with various memory and storage options to meet specific onboard computing needs for global rail applications.
