What is an NVIS Display?
An NVIS (Night Vision Imaging System) display is a specialized type of display technology that meets strict military standards for use in low-light or night-time conditions where the use of night vision goggles or other night vision devices is required. These displays emit light in a way that doesn’t interfere with the wearer’s ability to see through their night vision equipment, making them ideal for military and other specialized applications.
NVIS displays achieve their compatibility with night vision devices through a combination of specialized backlighting technology, filters, and other techniques. For example, they typically use LEDs or other light sources that emit light in the near-infrared (NIR) range, which is not visible to the naked eye but is compatible with night vision devices. Additionally, they often incorporate specialized filters to ensure that the light emitted by the display falls within the acceptable range for night vision compatibility.
Why Would Someone Need a Night Vision Display?
NVIS displays are primarily used in military and other specialized applications where low-light conditions are a concern. For example, military personnel may use night vision displays to navigate and conduct surveillance during nighttime operations, while pilots may use them to land aircraft in low-light conditions. Additionally, they may be used in other applications where low-light conditions are a concern, such as law enforcement, search and rescue, and commercial aviation.
In these applications, the use of NVIS displays can be critical for ensuring that individuals can operate safely and effectively in low-light conditions. Without NVIS displays, it may be difficult or impossible for individuals to see their surroundings and perform tasks that are necessary for their mission.
Using NVIS Displays on Computers
While NVIS displays are primarily used in specialized applications, they can also be useful in certain computer applications. For example, video editors may find them helpful when working with footage captured in low-light conditions, as they can provide a more accurate assessment of the color and brightness of the footage. Similarly, gamers may prefer them for a more immersive gaming experience.
When used on computers, NVIS displays typically require specialized hardware and software to ensure that they are compatible with the user’s night vision equipment. This may include specialized drivers or firmware, as well as adjustments to the display settings to ensure that the light emitted falls within the acceptable range for night vision compatibility.
Conclusion
NVIS displays are a specialized type of display technology that are designed for use in low-light or night-time conditions where the use of night vision goggles or other night vision devices is required. While they are primarily used in military and other specialized applications, they can also be useful in certain computer applications. By understanding the technical details of NVIS displays, individuals can determine whether they may be useful in their particular situation.
MIL-STD-464 is a set of standards established by the United States Department of Defense to ensure that electronic equipment, subsystems, and systems are designed to meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements. In other words, it sets the guidelines to ensure that electronic devices do not interfere with each other or the environment in which they operate. Here are some of the most important topics covered in MIL-STD-464:
- Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3)
One of the most important topics covered in MIL-STD-464 is the Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3). E3 refers to the interactions between electromagnetic fields and electronic systems. This includes both intentional emissions from electronic devices, such as radio frequency (RF) transmissions, as well as unintentional emissions, such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by other electronic devices or natural phenomena.
- EMC Requirements
MIL-STD-464 provides detailed guidelines for the EMC requirements that electronic equipment, subsystems, and systems must meet to ensure E3 compatibility. The standard defines specific test methods and procedures that must be followed to verify the EMC performance of electronic equipment.
- System-Level E3 Design
MIL-STD-464 also covers system-level E3 design considerations. This includes the design of electronic systems that must operate in E3 environments, such as military aircraft or naval vessels. The standard provides guidelines for the design of such systems, including the selection of appropriate shielding materials and the placement of components to minimize EMI.
- E3 Control Plans
Another important topic covered in MIL-STD-464 is the development of E3 Control Plans. These plans provide a framework for managing E3 issues throughout the lifecycle of electronic systems. The plans include procedures for identifying potential E3 problems, testing and evaluating electronic systems for E3 compliance, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
- Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)
MIL-STD-464 also covers the effects of Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) on electronic systems. EMP is a burst of electromagnetic energy that can be caused by nuclear detonation, high-altitude nuclear explosions, or other sources. The standard provides guidelines for designing electronic systems to withstand the effects of EMP.
MIL-STD-464 is a comprehensive set of guidelines that ensures electronic equipment, subsystems, and systems are designed to meet electromagnetic compatibility requirements. The standard covers a wide range of topics, including EMC requirements, system-level E3 design considerations, E3 Control Plans, and the effects of Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP). Adherence to these standards is critical for ensuring the reliability and performance of electronic systems in E3 environments.
Shock and vibration testing is a crucial aspect of the development and maintenance of military equipment. The US military relies heavily on a vast array of complex systems and equipment, including aircraft, vehicles, weapons, and communication devices. These systems are subjected to harsh environmental conditions and intense operational stresses, which can cause damage and failure if not adequately tested and validated.
In order to ensure that military equipment is up to the task, it is essential to subject it to rigorous shock and vibration testing. This type of testing simulates the types of stresses that equipment may encounter during transportation, deployment, and operation. This helps to identify potential weaknesses or design flaws that could lead to equipment failure in the field.
One example of the importance of shock and vibration testing can be seen in the development of military vehicles. Military vehicles, such as tanks and armored personnel carriers, must be able to withstand extreme levels of vibration and shock while driving over rough terrain. Inadequate testing can result in catastrophic failure, potentially leading to injury or loss of life for military personnel. This includes the laptops and tablets that are installed in these vehicles.
Similarly, aircraft must be tested for their ability to withstand the stresses of takeoff, flight, and landing. The vibration and shock loads experienced by aircraft during these phases can be significant and must be properly accounted for during testing. Failure to properly test aircraft systems, including personal laptops/tablets, can lead to in-flight failures and accidents.
Another area where shock and vibration testing is critical is in the development of weapons systems. Weapons systems, such as guns and missiles, must be designed to withstand the shock and vibration loads experienced during firing and transport. Inadequate testing can result in misfires, which can be deadly in a military setting.
In addition to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military equipment, shock and vibration testing can also lead to cost savings in the long run. By identifying potential design flaws or weaknesses during testing, equipment can be modified or improved before it is deployed, reducing the need for expensive repairs or replacements in the field.
In conclusion, shock and vibration testing is an essential component of military equipment development and maintenance. By subjecting military equipment to rigorous testing, potential weaknesses and design flaws can be identified and corrected before deployment. This ensures that military personnel can rely on their equipment to perform effectively and safely in a variety of environments and operational scenarios.
Salt and fog protection for military devices is an essential aspect of ensuring the durability and reliability of military equipment. Military devices, including vehicles, communication equipment, and weapons systems, are often deployed in harsh environments where they are exposed to salt and fog. Without adequate protection, salt and fog can cause significant damage to military devices, compromising their performance and potentially putting the lives of military personnel at risk.
Salt is a highly corrosive substance that can cause severe damage to military devices. When salt comes into contact with metal components, it can cause rust and corrosion, which can weaken the structural integrity of the device. This can lead to equipment failure and potentially dangerous situations for military personnel. Salt is commonly found in coastal environments, where military operations often take place.
Fog, on the other hand, is a type of mist that contains tiny droplets of water. Fog can be a particular problem for military devices because the droplets can settle on the device’s surfaces, causing them to become wet. This can lead to electrical problems, such as short circuits, which can damage the device and render it unusable.
To prevent salt and fog damage, military devices must be designed with appropriate protection measures. One common method of protection is the use of specialized coatings that can resist corrosion and moisture. These coatings are often applied to metal components, such as chassis and electrical connections, to prevent rust and other forms of corrosion.
Another method of protection is the use of specialized seals and gaskets to prevent moisture from entering the device. These seals and gaskets can be applied to device enclosures, such as communication equipment and weapons systems, to prevent moisture from entering the device and causing damage.
Salt and fog protection is essential for military devices because it helps to ensure that the equipment remains functional and reliable in harsh environments. Military personnel rely on their equipment to perform effectively in a variety of situations, and any failure can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. By designing devices with appropriate protection measures, military personnel can be confident that their equipment will remain functional and reliable, even in the harshest conditions.
In conclusion, salt and fog protection for military devices is an essential aspect of ensuring the durability and reliability of military equipment. The corrosive nature of salt and the moisture content of fog can cause significant damage to military devices, compromising their performance and potentially putting the lives of military personnel at risk. By designing devices with appropriate protection measures, military personnel can be confident in the reliability of their equipment and the safety of their operations.
1553 is a military standard for communication protocols used in avionics for aircraft and spacecraft. It is a data bus protocol that provides a reliable and efficient method for transmitting information between various avionics systems in real-time. ProCustom Group specializes in integrating various 1553 suppliers into a rugged laptop or tablet (e.g. X500 with 1553)
1553 technology was first introduced in the 1970s and is still widely used in military aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace applications. It has proven to be a reliable and efficient solution for transmitting a variety of different types of data, including control, status, and sensor information.
1553 works by using a single twisted pair of wires to transmit data in a time-division multiplexed (TDM) format. This means that different avionics systems can share the same communication channel and transmit data at different times. The data is transmitted in packets, with each packet consisting of a command word, data words, and an end-of-message (EOM) word. The 1553 bus controller manages the communication by controlling the access to the bus and ensuring that data packets are transmitted in the correct order.
One of the key benefits of 1553 technology is its ability to handle a large number of avionics systems at once. Each system can transmit data to the bus controller, and the controller can distribute the data to the other systems as needed. This allows for efficient use of the communication channel and reduces the amount of wiring required for each system.
Another benefit of 1553 is its high level of reliability. The 1553 protocol includes error-checking features to ensure that data is transmitted correctly. If an error is detected, the bus controller will automatically retransmit the data until it is received correctly. This helps to ensure that critical information is transmitted accurately and in a timely manner.
In conclusion, 1553 is a robust and efficient communication protocol that has been widely adopted for use in avionics and aerospace applications. Its ability to handle a large number of systems, combined with its reliability and error-checking features, make it an ideal solution for transmitting critical information in real-time.
Copper Ethernet and Fiber Ethernet are two different types of cables used for networking. They both have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand the difference between them in order to make an informed decision when setting up a network.
Copper Ethernet, also known as twisted pair Ethernet, is the most common type of cable used in networking. It is made up of copper wires that are twisted together to reduce interference. Copper Ethernet is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it a popular choice for home and small business networks. Additionally, copper Ethernet cables are flexible and can be bent and twisted to fit into tight spaces.
However, copper Ethernet cables have some limitations. They are not as fast as fiber Ethernet cables and have a limited range, which means they are not suitable for larger networks or networks that require long distance connections. Copper Ethernet cables also have a higher attenuation rate, which means they lose signal strength over longer distances. Additionally, copper Ethernet cables are prone to interference from other devices, such as power lines and other electronic equipment (see EMI Sheilding).
Fiber Ethernet, on the other hand, is made up of glass or plastic fibers that transmit data as light. This makes fiber Ethernet cables much faster and more reliable than copper Ethernet cables. They also have a much longer range, which makes them suitable for larger networks and long distance connections. Additionally, fiber Ethernet cables are immune to electromagnetic interference, which means they are less likely to be affected by other devices.
However, fiber Ethernet cables are more expensive and difficult to install than copper Ethernet cables. They also require special equipment to terminate and connect the cables, which adds to the cost and complexity of the installation process. Additionally, fiber Ethernet cables are more fragile than copper Ethernet cables, and they can be more easily damaged if not handled with care.
In summary, Copper Ethernet and Fiber Ethernet both have their own advantages and disadvantages. Copper Ethernet is a more affordable and easier to install option, but it is not as fast or reliable as Fiber Ethernet. Fiber Ethernet is faster and more reliable, but it is also more expensive and difficult to install. It’s important to consider the specific needs of your network when deciding which type of cable to use.
FireWire, also known as IEEE 1394, is a high-speed data transfer technology that is used to connect digital devices such as cameras, computers, and audio equipment. It was first developed by Apple in the late 1980s and has since been adopted by a wide range of manufacturers as a standard for digital connectivity.
One of the key benefits of FireWire is its high data transfer rates, which can reach up to 800 megabits per second. This makes it well-suited for applications that require large amounts of data to be transferred quickly, such as video editing or audio recording. Additionally, FireWire supports “hot swapping,” which means that devices can be connected and disconnected while the system is running without the need to reboot.
Another benefit of FireWire is that it supports peer-to-peer communication, which means that devices can communicate directly with each other without the need for a computer to act as a intermediary. This allows for more efficient data transfer and can save on computer processing power.
FireWire is also known for its plug-and-play capabilities, which make it easy to connect and disconnect devices without the need for additional software or drivers. This is particularly useful for users who frequently change or add devices to their system.
FireWire has been losing popularity with the rise of USB technology which has faster data transfer speeds and more widespread support. USB-C is now considered as the new standard for digital connectivity, hence FireWire is now seen as legacy technology. ProCustom Group will continue to support these legacy integrations.
In conclusion, FireWire is a high-speed data transfer technology that has been used for decades to connect digital devices. Its high data transfer rates, support for peer-to-peer communication, and plug-and-play capabilities make it well-suited for applications that require large amounts of data to be transferred quickly. However, it is being replaced by USB technology as the new standard for digital connectivity.
EMI shielding is a critical aspect of the defense industry, as it helps to protect sensitive electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference can come from a variety of sources, such as radio frequency transmissions, power lines, and even the sun. Without proper EMI shielding, electronic equipment can malfunction or even fail completely, putting lives and missions at risk.
The importance of EMI shielding in the defense industry cannot be overstated. In battlefield situations, for example, electronic equipment is subjected to a wide range of environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, humidity, and dust (see MIL-STD-810). EMI shielded systems are often rugged in nature and are built to protect this equipment from these harsh conditions, ensuring that it continues to function properly and perform its intended mission.
Another important aspect of EMI shielding in the defense industry is its ability to protect against electronic warfare (EW) threats. These threats include jamming and spoofing, which can be used to disrupt or degrade the performance of electronic equipment. EMI shielding helps to protect against these threats by providing a barrier between the equipment and the source of the interference. ProCustom Group has specifically developed various solution to protect against these events (e.g. HEMP Hardening). While MIL-STD-461 covers a lot of the emissions/susceptibility risks – there are often more extreme scenerios that must be accounted for when designing an EMI shielded system.
There are many different types of EMI shielding materials and techniques that are used in the defense industry, including conductive coatings, metal enclosures, and electromagnetic wave absorbers. Each of these has its own unique set of properties and benefits, and the choice of which to use will depend on the specific application and the level of protection required.
EMI shielding is an essential aspect of the defense industry, as it helps to protect sensitive electronic equipment from a wide range of environmental conditions and electronic warfare threats. Without proper EMI shielding, electronic equipment can malfunction or even fail completely, putting lives and missions at risk.
ProCustom Group can integrate PCMCIA readers in almost any rugged laptop (LF/ATA).
PCMCIA stands for “Personal Computer Memory Card International Association.” The organization was founded in 1989 to standardize the design and manufacture of credit-card-sized devices that could be inserted into a computer’s PCMCIA slot to provide additional functionality, such as memory expansion, networking, or wireless connectivity.
The first PCMCIA cards were memory cards for portable computers, but the standard soon expanded to include other types of devices as well. The organization changed its name to the PC Card Standard Association in 1998, and the standard was eventually replaced by the ExpressCard standard in the early 2000s.
PCMCIA readers were commonly used in laptops during the 1990s and early 2000s, but they were gradually phased out as other technologies became more prevalent. One reason for this is that PCMCIA cards were relatively large and bulky, and as laptops became smaller and more compact, there was less room for the PCMCIA slot. Additionally, as USB and other types of connectors/interfaces became more widely available, they provided a more flexible and versatile way to connect peripheral devices to a laptop.
Another reason is that the ExpressCard standard, which was introduced in the early 2000s, offered faster data transfer speeds and more advanced features compared to PCMCIA cards, making them a more attractive option for laptop manufacturers and users. As a result, the PCMCIA readers were replaced by the ExpressCard readers in Laptops.
Finally, with the advent of cloud storage, wireless connectivity and online services, many users found they didn’t need to use a physical card to expand their storage or add connectivity, which further reduced the need for PCMCIA readers in laptops.
The Covid pandemic and the ever-increasing wildfires have shown everyone the importance of first responders and the role they play in public safety. Frontline workers need to have access to the most recent technological advancements to better perform their tasks in environments that are becoming more challenging. Rugged computers and tablets are evolving to meet the growing demands for lighter, more powerful, and even more ruggedized laptops and tablets that can be utilized in harsh environments.
With emergence of 5G networks, the need for LTE/5G capable rugged computers is becoming more apparent. These rugged laptops and tablets need to meet MIL-STD-810 for resistance to shock and impacts, MIL-STD-461 for resistance to electromagnetic interference, and Ingress Protection rating to withstand dust and water penetration. Getac’s B360 and B360 Pro laptop with LTE/5G is certified to be used in extreme temperatures, provides first responders, police officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel with the latest technology.
ProCustom Group specializes in providing customizing rugged computers and tablets to meet the specific needs for first responders. ProCustom Group’s engineering and production teams, design and develop solutions specific to the environment of operations. Solutions that First Responders require are not always standard and our engineers can support these requirements – whatever the mission is!
While use of rugged computers for critical operations has been around for many years, the shift to Industry 4.0 is changing the landscape. With diminishing margins in many industries where safe operation in hazardous environment is becoming even more crucial, the emergence of Industry 4.0 is proving to be the key to success. As IoT sensors are providing more datapoints, the processing requirements of computers are increasing and so is the need for quick and accurate decision making in complex operations and manufacturing.
The new generations of Rugged Tablets are not only designed for hazardous area classifications (Class I and Class II, Div. 1 and Div.2), but also have evolved to be more powerful, lighter, more durable, and better suited to keep up with the digital revolution and emergence of Industry 4.0. The abundance of accessories and ease of use is also helping with employee adoption compared to previous generations.
Getac UX10 and F110 Rugged Tablets are perfect examples of where Industry 4.0 meets critical operations and hazardous environment. The UX10 tablet with ATEX and IECEx Zone 2/22 certification, 10.1” Touchscreen, RF antenna pass-through and WWAN and WLAN, Bluetooth, Wi-fi, and 4G LTE connectivity is ideal for a facility operators and maintenance personnel that need to download information from IoT field devices, process information, and make critical decisions. The F110 tablet which has a larger display (11.6″) than UX10 is also widely used as the rugged tablet option in many industries.
The use of these rugged tablets can be further enhanced by custom designed Chest Mounts by ProCustom Group. These chest mounts enable facility operators, maintenance personnel, and mechanics to have better accessibility to the tablet while working closely with the machinery or equipment. ProCustom Group engineers have exclusively designed the chest mount to work with the UX10 and F110 Rugged Tablets, while giving the user the freedom of performing the most demanding tasks. The chest mount can be further customized to allow for removable customized interface cable entries that may be used for connecting to field devices or when tethered connections are required. The combination of the custom designed chest mount and the rugged tablet is paving the way for taking full advantage of Industry 4.0.
If the reliability and security of your system is important to you and you’re looking for a rugged computer that can support RedHat, Ubuntu or any Linux distribution, then consider a system from ProCustom Group. The combination of a rugged computer with a Linux OS gives users the ultimate power and flexibility for any application. System Engineers at ProCustom Group have now made It possible for anyone to have access to such systems – pre-installed and validated before they go out the door.
ProCustom Group System Engineers are industry experts in installing RHEL/RedHat and Ubuntu across the Getac product portfolio including the recently released Getac B360 and B360 Pro. Our Linux installations can now support all features such as audio control, battery monitoring, Bluetooth, file systems, keyboard, multi-language, touchscreen, and wireless connectivity. In addition, all these features can be tested/validated by our engineers. If you plan to run both native Windows and Linux applications – we can support dual boot systems as well.
Rugged Computers/Tablet with Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) Displays
When it comes to NVIS displays, finding the right solution is critical. Whether your application requires an optically bonded NVIS filter or a removable filter, choosing the right product can become a daunting challenge. Fortunately, with ProCustom Group’s experience in this realm, it can become a much easier task for anyone.
Manufacturing a high-performance rugged NVIS compatible touchscreen that meets MIL-STD-3009 requirements and is right for your specific application requires advanced technology, craftsmanship, and years of experience. ProCustom Group specializes in manufacturing and engineering solutions to these complex and unique problems. ProCustom Group offers optically bonded NVIS filters that are bonded to the screen and cover the display area and provide superior filtration while allowing the use of touchscreen. The optically bonded NVIS filters can be custom designed for Getac X500, UX10, B360, V110, B300, and F110.
Removable NVIS filters gives the user the flexibility of easily installing or uninstalling the filter as needed. This solution is perfect for in-cockpit applications or where users are leveraging Night Vision Goggles. To witness the benefits of using a NVIS filter on a Getac device, check out the video here: