Dave wrote: > I'd like to use as many off the shelf devices as possible - PC boards > etc... if possible. > > Being a typical customer, they want to keep the costs down but they also > want it to work and operate reliably. > > I've had good luck using conventional industrial controls on machines > that operate outside, but I have always been able to include a panel > heater to minimize condensation issues. > > Do you guys have any suggestions?
My son worked in Antarctica for several years, designing and installing power equipment at field camps. Here's what I remember from that: 1. Use gel-type lead-acid batteries for generator staring. Keep them topped up with a solar panel when sitting. 2. If there is a block heater on the generator engine, connect a battery charger to the same power source, so the batteries are fully charged when it's time to start it. 3. If it's really cold, -20F or below, put the batteries in an insulated box and use a little of the battery/solar panel juice to heat the batteries slightly. 4. Use solid-state hard drives. Much better for vibration and cold. 5. Computer fans probably won't start cold, but they'll warm up and run in time to keep things from overheating. 6. Stick with name-brand computer mother board and RAM. They may have more conservative timing margins which will be more reliable over a wider temperature range. Karl ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ AppSumo Presents a FREE Video for the SourceForge Community by Eric Ries, the creator of the Lean Startup Methodology on "Lean Startup Secrets Revealed." This video shows you how to validate your ideas, optimize your ideas and identify your business strategy. http://p.sf.net/sfu/appsumosfdev2dev _______________________________________________ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
