What is an HMI with a CPU?
An HMI (human-machine interface) is the screen and touch panel that operators use to view and control a machine or process. The CPU is the processor that runs the HMI software, reads data from sensors and controllers, and drives the display. Combining both in one unit gives a single device that shows the operator interface and performs the computing work behind it.
Key specifications to compare
Processor generation, core count, clock speed, cache size and memory set how fast the HMI responds and how many tasks run at once. Storage type and capacity set how much data and software the unit can hold. Operating system choice determines which HMI, SCADA or control software is supported.
| Model | Processor | Cores | Max Frequency | Main Memory | Storage | OS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial PC IPC5 | Intel Core i5-1240P | 12 | 4.4 GHz | 16 GB or 32 GB | 512 GB or 1 TB SSD | Windows 11 IoT Value or Pro |
| Industrial PC IPC5 | Intel Core i7-1255U | 10 | 4.7 GHz | 16 GB or 32 GB | 512 GB or 1 TB SSD | Windows 11 Pro or Ubuntu |
| Industrial PC IPC3 | Intel Core i3-1215U | 6 | 4.4 GHz | 8 GB | 256 GB SSD | Ubuntu Linux |
| Micro 5R Thin Client | ARM Cortex A53 | 4 | 2.0 GHz | 2 GB | 16 GB eMMC | Thinux Embedded Linux |
Use cases
Industrial PCs with Intel Core i5 and i7 processors suit control rooms and machine interfaces that run data-heavy HMI software, trend charts and multiple screens. Industrial PCs with Intel Core i3 suit simpler operator panels. The ARM-based thin client suits lightweight display tasks where the HMI software runs on a central server.
Choosing the right CPU for your HMI
Select a higher core count and clock speed when the HMI runs logging, trending or several applications together. Select a lower-power processor and a thin client when the unit only displays a remote interface. Match memory to the number of screens and the size of the data set. Choose a dual LAN model when the HMI must connect to separate control and plant networks.
Thinvent products for HMI and CPU applications
Thinvent has Industrial PC IPC5 models with Intel Core i5-1240P and i7-1255U processors, Industrial PC IPC3 with Intel Core i3-1215U, Aero and Treo Mini PCs for compact installations, and the Micro 5R Thin Client with an ARM Cortex A53 processor. The range does not include a Core i9 or Intel Xeon processor.
