At a busy horse racing facility where milliseconds define success, precise data monitoring is essential. To support this demanding environment, a system integrator sought a compact and ultra-reliable computing platform to serve as the backbone of an IoT gateway. Premio’s x86 super-rugged small form factor computer delivered the rugged durability and high performance needed to capture, process, and transmit real-time tracking data under extreme outdoor conditions.
Challenges
- Need for a rugged industrial PC that can withstand extreme outdoor operating conditions
- Requirement for 4x PoE ports to support multiple radio receivers
- Compact form factor suitable for integration into a custom NEMA enclosure
- Desire for a fanless design to ensure silent and maintenance-free operation
- Preference for a hot-swappable drive tray for quick field servicing and SSD access
Solution
- Premio’s x86 super-rugged small form factor computer (RCO-3000-RPL)
- Complies with MIL-STD-810G for shock and vibration to ensure reliability in harsh environments
- Small form factor and fanless chassis support operation from -25°C to 70°C
- EDGEBoost I/O Module expands connectivity with 4x PoE ports for radio receiver integration
- Built-in hot-swappable drive tray enables easy access for technicians during maintenance
Benefits
- Long life cycle Intel 13th Gen CPU platform reduces validation efforts for future deployments
- Global engineering support across the U.S. and Taiwan ensures responsive technical assistance
- Custom BIOS and OS image preloaded and tested before shipment for seamless installation
Company Overview
As a leader in IoT and telemetry innovation, this company engineers advanced monitoring systems that bring real-time intelligence to live event operations. Its core competencies include sensor network integration, data automation, and scalable analytics platforms. Through continuous development and cloud-based innovation, the organization remains at the forefront of high-performance field technology.
The Challenges
Rugged Industrial Reliability
Operating at an outdoor racing track demands equipment that performs flawlessly despite constant exposure to heat, cold, and dust. The computing system needed to be resistant to vibration and temperature fluctuations to maintain stable performance. A ruggedized industrial-grade PC was essential to avoid costly downtime or hardware failure.
Power over Ethernet Connectivity
Multiple radio receivers needed to be powered and networked through a single, compact computing device. This required 4x PoE ports to simplify installation and reduce cabling complexity. The challenge was to integrate this functionality without sacrificing the system’s small footprint.
Compact Form Factor for Enclosure Integration
The custom NEMA enclosure had limited internal space, leaving no room for bulky systems. The solution had to be compact yet powerful, capable of fitting seamlessly within the enclosure while maintaining airflow and thermal stability. Size efficiency was a key factor in enabling successful integration.
Fanless and Maintenance-Free Operation
Given the outdoor environment, a fanless system was critical to prevent dust ingress and reduce maintenance needs. The solution required passive heat dissipation capable of handling high processing loads without active cooling. This ensured quiet, reliable operation around the clock.
Hot-Swappable Drive Access
Field technicians occasionally needed quick access to data storage for maintenance or upgrades. A hot-swappable drive tray would simplify this process, eliminating the need to disassemble the system. This feature added flexibility for ongoing support and data management.
The Solution
Premio’s x86 Super-Rugged Small Form Factor Computer (RCO-3000-RPL)
Premio’s RCO-3000-RPL served as the robust IoT gateway for the horse track monitoring system. Engineered with an Intel i9-13900TE processor and MIL-STD-810G compliance, it provided dependable computing power in high-vibration and extreme temperature environments. Its fanless, sealed chassis ensured optimal performance even under sustained outdoor exposure.
Enhanced Durability and Environmental Tolerance
Built to handle temperatures ranging from -25°C to 70°C, the RCO-3000-RPL ensured uninterrupted performance regardless of weather conditions. Its rugged construction and shock resistance allowed continuous operation without degradation. These characteristics made it ideal for installation inside the customer’s NEMA-rated enclosure.
Flexible Connectivity Expansion
The RCO-3000-RPL’s EDGEBoost I/O Module enabled additional 4x PoE ports to power radio receivers directly. This modular flexibility allowed the system integrator to connect all necessary devices without relying on external switches or adapters. As a result, the overall system became more streamlined and easier to maintain.
Effortless Storage Access
Equipped with a built-in 2.5” hot-swappable SATA drive tray, the system allowed quick replacement or upgrading of SSDs. Technicians could perform field maintenance without removing the enclosure or powering down the unit. This convenience significantly reduced service time and system downtime.
Reliable Performance in Compact Form Factor
Despite its small footprint, the RCO-3000-RPL delivered high-performance computing and efficient heat dissipation through its fanless design. The compact size ensured it fits perfectly within the custom NEMA enclosure, providing both power and efficiency in limited space.
The Benefits
Future-Proof Platform Longevity
With Intel’s 13th Gen Raptor Lake CPU architecture, the solution offers long-term availability, minimizing the need for revalidation or redesign. Customers can confidently scale deployments, knowing the same platform will remain supported for years.
Global Engineering Support
Engineering teams in Los Angeles and Taiwan provide hands-on technical expertise to ensure smooth deployment and troubleshooting worldwide. This level of support enhances customer confidence and speeds up project timelines.
Optimized and Ready-to-Deploy Systems
Premio’s preloaded BIOS and OS configurations reduce integration time and testing overhead. Each system arrives tested and ready for installation, allowing the end user to focus on deployment rather than setup.
Conclusion
By leveraging Premio’s rugged RCO-3000-RPL, the system integrator successfully built a reliable and high-performance IoT gateway for racetrack monitoring. The solution’s durability, connectivity, and compact design enabled seamless operation in extreme outdoor conditions. This collaboration delivered a robust foundation for scalable and efficient real-time data management across dynamic field environments.