Understanding NEMA Ratings and Ingress Protection (IP) for Industrial LCD Monitors and Rugged Computers

AbraxSys stands at the forefront of reliable industrial technology, providing rugged solutions tailored to the demands of challenging and harsh environments. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) ratings are a critical factor in ensuring the durability of electronic components. By understanding the relevance of these ratings and how they apply to the product’s intended usage, you can be a more informed consumer and ensure that what you’re purchasing will fulfill the needs of your operational environment.

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Sunlight Readable Monitor Basics: Function, Benefits & Use Cases

Just about every laptop, smartphone, or tablet user has squinted in the sun, twisting and tilting a device as they struggle to see images and text to no avail. Commercial grade LCD display monitors simply aren’t equipped for easy viewing in direct sunlight or any outdoor applications where glare is present.

Using a sunlight readable monitor solves this issue, but industrial, military, maritime, mining, and other teams operating under demanding conditions require even more from their monitors than everyday tech users. The environments they must navigate often include high sun glare, extreme temperatures, dust and dirt, and water—from splashes to complete submergence.

If these factors are commonplace in your industry, you’ll need an advanced sunlight viewable monitor with capabilities beyond the average daylight monitor.


What Is a Sunlight Readable Monitor?

Sunlight readable monitors are built to outperform commercial grade displays by providing tolerance for high ambient lighting without image washout. High nit LCD monitors offer high brightness and color brilliance, often with a full dimmable range, to deliver a crystal-clear image.

A quality daylight readable display is capable of meeting temperature and touch needs during extended operation for usage 24 hours, 7 days per week, 365 days per year.

Rugged sunlight viewable monitors are also designed to withstand a variety of conditions in harsh, real-world environments. This means they can survive water, excessive vibration and shock, humidity and high temperatures, high solar loads, electromagnetic and environmental effects, and other extreme factors that users may encounter.

Determine how many nits your screen needs to achieve sunlight readability.


Key Benefits of Sunlight Readable Monitors

A modern LCD sunlight readable display boasts greater battery life, heat management, brightness, and visibility because it is designed with either transflective materials, optical bonding, or special surface treatments. Those made to withstand high light and harsh conditions offer seamless use in a variety of outdoor scenarios—as well as indoor applications where light can stream through windows, such as air traffic control centers, railroad cars, marine vessels, agriculture machinery, and public kiosks.

A rugged sunlight readable monitor is developed with strength, efficiency, and user experience in mind to create a product that is easy to use and built to last.

  • Greater Strength & Durability: These monitors are specifically designed to function well no matter the environment—water, dust and dirt, inclement weather, extreme temperatures, increased humidity, high pressure, extra shock and vibration, electromagnetic interference, and rough everyday handling.

  • Higher Energy Efficiency: Rugged sunlight readable displays must offer easy viewing under high-glare conditions, which means they can reach higher levels of brightness and spread incoming light evenly. To achieve this effect, they also maintain high energy efficiency, long battery life, high contrast ratios, and accurate color reproduction.

  • Improved Usage & Lifespan: Unlike standard commercial displays, sunlight readable monitors are built to provide thousands of hours of usage across their lifespans for a device that is easy to use in a range of indoor and outdoor applications and still remains a cost-effective investment for teams.

Get the full breakdown of how they work in our guide to sunlight readable monitors.


Top Use Cases for a Sunlight Readable Monitor

A daylight monitor is ideal in any application where bright light may affect the optimal usability of a digital display. Sunlight readable monitors are commonplace in manufacturing, security, mining, and countless other industries. AbraxSys, in particular, has seen our LCD monitors leveraged in:

  • Avionics
  • Energy
  • Maritime
  • Military & Defense
  • Mining
  • Oil & Gas
  • Petrochemical
  • First Responders
  • Transportation & Logistics
  • Kiosk

Finding the Right Rugged Sunlight Readable Monitor

Go beyond the capabilities of standard monitors that wash out in the sun. Find the perfect rugged sunlight readable device for your industry and unique application by assessing the quality and reliability of all options.

In our complete line of advanced technological visual imaging and computing systems, AbraxSys offers several high-bright TFT active matrix LCD displays that consistently outperform commercially available, non-enhanced productions. Choose from daylight readable displays with brightness levels from 700 to 2,200 nits, optional touchscreen configurations, and multiple sizes and mounts.

Shop now to find the right rugged sunlight readable monitor for your team.

 

History, Innovations, and Uses of Rugged LCD Displays

Imagine a world without the vivid, high-resolution screens that bring our devices to life. Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) have become an integral part of our digital landscape, from the smartphones in our pockets to the monitors in our offices. But what exactly is an LCD, and how has it become a cornerstone of modern technology?

An LCD is an electronic display device that manipulates light to create images. Applying varying electric voltage to a liquid crystal layer induces changes in optical properties, allowing for the control of light passage. This seemingly simple concept has revolutionized how we interact with technology, enabling everything from portable electronic games to flat-panel televisions.

But the story of LCDs is not just about screens and pixels; it’s a tale of innovation, resilience, and adaptability. It’s about how a scientific curiosity from the 19th century transformed into a technology that shapes our daily lives and drives industries where reliability and precision are paramount.

Let’s explore the fascinating journey of LCD technology, from its early discoveries to its rugged applications in today’s demanding environments.


A Brief Timeline of LCD Technologies

  • 1880s

    In 1888, the Austrian botanic physiologist Friedrich Reinitzer examined the unique properties of various cholesterol derivatives and discovered their two melting points. Over the next year, German physicist Otto Lehman continued his research on these “flowing” crystals and coined the term “cholesteric liquid crystals.” These materials remained a scientific curiosity for a significant period afterward without many practical applications.

  • 1960s

    During the 60s, significant advancements in liquid crystal technology occurred. In 1962, Richard Williams of RCA discovered some interesting electro-optic characteristics of liquid crystals. By 1964, George H. Heilmeier, also of RCA, developed a method for working with liquid crystals to create displays, laying the groundwork for LCD technology. This era marked the transition of liquid crystals from scientific curiosity to technology with potential commercial applications and set the stage for developing modern LCDs.

  • 1970s

    The 70s marked a pivotal time in LCD technology with the introduction of the first LCD watch in 1970 and the Twisted Nematic (TN) field effect, invented by Wolfgang Helfrich and Martin Schadt in 1972. These advancements laid the foundation for the widespread commercial use of LCDs in various electronic devices.

  • 1980s

    The 80s saw further innovation in LCD technology, most notably with the launch of the first LCD television by Sharp in 1988. Throughout the decade, improvements in manufacturing processes and the development of Thin Film Transistor (TFT) technology enabled higher resolution and more colorful displays. These advancements contributed to the growing popularity of LCDs in consumer electronics, including computers and handheld devices.

  • 1990s

    The 90s saw LCD technology become a standard feature in consumer electronics, including computer monitors, laptops, and flat-panel televisions. The decade was marked by the introduction of larger screens, with prototypes reaching up to 40 inches in diagonal size. The booming Japanese tech sector was instrumental in these advancements and the rapid global popularity of LCDs. By the end of the 90s, the widespread commercial use of LCDs had set the stage for continued innovation and growth in the 21st century.

  • 2000s

    The 2000s were characterized by the rapid expansion of LCD technology into various markets. The introduction of energy-efficient LED backlighting and improved resolutions and contrast ratios led to the proliferation of LCD televisions, monitors, and mobile devices. The decade also saw the emergence of touchscreen LCDs, enabling new forms of interaction in smartphones, tablets, and other touch-enabled devices. LCDs became the preferred display technology, outpacing traditional CRT displays and paving the way for further innovations.

  • 2010s

    In the 2010s, LCD technology continued to evolve, with advancements in areas such as Quantum Dot (QD) technology and High Dynamic Range (HDR), enhancing color accuracy and image quality. The integration of LCDs into various products, from automotive displays to wearable technology, became more prevalent. The decade also witnessed a trend towards ultra-thin and flexible LCDs, opening new possibilities for design and functionality. The continued growth and diversification of LCD applications solidified the tech’s position as a leading display solution in the modern era.

Current Uses for Rugged LCD Displays

Rugged LCDs are designed to withstand harsh environments and are utilized in various demanding applications. They are employed in manufacturing control systems in the industrial sector, where resistance to extreme temperatures, vibrations, and moisture is essential. In the military, rugged LCDs are used in vehicle-mounted systems, navigation, and mission-critical equipment, providing reliable performance in challenging conditions. The healthcare industry leverages rugged LCDs for medical imaging and diagnostic equipment, ensuring durability and precision. Additionally, outdoor kiosks, maritime navigation systems, and aviation control panels are common applications where rugged LCDs offer enhanced visibility and resilience. These specialized displays exemplify the adaptability and robustness of LCD technology in meeting diverse and demanding requirements.

Why the Military Trusts Rugged LCD Displays

Rugged LCDs have become a trusted technology in military applications due to their reliability, adaptability, and performance under extreme conditions. The specific characteristics that make LCDs suitable for military use include:

  • Engineered for Resilience: Withstands harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and shock, and is constructed to be dustproof, waterproof, shockproof, and vibration-proof, and can frequently last up to 30,000 hours with continuous use.

  • Adapted for Varied Climates: Designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures, from below-freezing to scorching environments.

  • Energy Efficient: Optimized to consume less power, making them ideal for battery-operated and remote military operations.

  • Enhanced Visibility:Provides sunlight readability and extensive brightness adjustments, ensuring clear viewing in all lighting conditions.

  • Interactive Capabilities: This can include touchscreen technology that won’t overheat with prolonged use, facilitating ongoing usage in critical military tasks.

  • Compliance Assurance: Manufactured to meet specific military standards and certifications, reinforcing quality and performance.

These attributes collectively make LCDs an indispensable technology in the military, where resilience, efficiency, and functionality are of utmost importance. With proven performance in demanding conditions, LCD technology stands ready to meet the unique requirements of military operations and equipment.

AbraxSys’ Innovations in the LCD Display Industry

Over the years, AbraxSys Corporation has become a trusted leader in industrial-grade LCDs, designed to meet the demands of critical visual applications and harsh environments with innovations in several key areas:

  • Sunlight Readability Our displays are configured for use in direct sunlight, incorporating higher nit luminosity and reflection-reducing filtering technology. We ensure clear visibility, no matter the lighting conditions.

  • Rugged Designs Offering a range of industrial TFT monitors with Ingress Protection levels up to IP67, our displays are built to withstand extreme conditions. Sizes range from 6.4″ to 32″, with standard and wide formats available.

  • Touch Screen Technology From Resistive to Projected Capacitive, we offer various touch screen options, enhancing user interaction across diverse applications.

  • Legacy Support We support traditional resolutions like VGA, SVGA, XGA, and Low-Scan “Legacy” video formats, bridging the gap between past and present technologies.

  • Outperforming the Past Our LCDs outperform the CRT displays of the past, leading to true “industrial” grade rugged monitors that sometimes operate over 100,000 hours longer.

  • Extreme Conditions Designed for high-dust and high-moisture scenarios and temperatures as low as -40C and well over +60C degrees, our rugged displays are built for the most challenging industrial work environments.

  • Quality and Durability Our industrial-grade displays outperform regular LCDs, offering improved picture quality and durability thanks to thin-film transistor technology.

Our commitment to quality, innovation, and adaptability ensures that our displays provide the resilience, efficiency, and functionality needed in any industry, any environment, any time.

Trust AbraxSys’ Rugged LCD Displays for Any Application

From the early discoveries of the 1880s to the cutting-edge innovations of the 21st century, the journey of LCD technology has been marked by relentless progress and adaptability. Today, LCDs are not just a part of our daily lives; they are essential tools in industries where reliability, resilience, and precision are paramount.

At AbraxSys, we embrace this legacy of innovation, crafting rugged LCDs that meet the unique demands of industrial, marine, and military applications. Our products are more than just screens; they are solutions engineered to withstand extreme conditions, optimized for energy efficiency, and designed for clear visibility.

In a world where technology constantly changes, the need for quality and commitment remains constant. That’s why we focus on not just meeting but exceeding our customers’ expectations. Whether it’s sunlight readability, extreme temperature tolerance, or legacy support, AbraxSys delivers.

Contact us today to talk about your rugged LCD needs.

 

Redefining Resilience & Performance with New 10.1” Monitors

As a trusted provider of high-quality monitors, AbraxSys is excited to introduce three new additions: the XM-101, XCM-101, and SRD-XM-101. These innovative models broaden our product range and represent a significant step into the 10.1″ monitor sector. Created in response to the market’s increasing demand for compact, high-performance displays, these monitors embody an unwavering commitment to fulfilling client needs.

Let’s take a closer look at the distinctive features of each of these innovative products.

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XM-101: Resilience Meets Performance
XCM-101: Reliable and High Performing
SRD-XM-101: Tailored for High Ambient Light Conditions
Beyond Standard: Custom Solutions & Speedy Delivery


 

XM-101: Resilience Meets Performance

 
 
 

The XM-101 Rugged NEMA 4 IP65 LCD Monitor symbolizes the ideal blend of industrial strength and optimal performance. This model features a true industrial-grade LCD panel, advanced LED backlighting, and exceptional contrast, resulting in superior sunlight readability. Exhibiting a luminosity of 400 nits, the XM-101 operates effectively across a wide temperature range (-20°C to 70°C). This monitor sets itself apart with its robustness and suitability for demanding applications. With daylight readability, a 10.1” viewable area, 400 nits brightness, and 1000:1 contrast ratio emphasize its high performance under severe temperature conditions and direct sunlight.

Key features of the XM-101 include:

  • Long-Life Advanced LED Backlighting, over 75,000 MTBF
  • Exceptional Sunlight Readability
  • High Environmental Performance and Reliability
  • Versatile Input Formats
  • Broad Aspect Ratio and Viewing Cone
  • USA Engineering, Production, and Support
  • 1-Year Warranty

The XM-101’s rugged touch screens withstand severe abuse, perfect for applications where impact resistance is paramount. Learn more about the XM-101’s reliable performance in diverse environments and download the Product Sheet.

 


XCM-101: Reliable and High Performing

 
 

The XCM-101 is not just a monitor; it’s a testament to AbraxSys’ dedication to delivering top-tier products tailored for demanding applications.

Embedded within the XCM-101 is a genuine industrial-grade LCD panel solid-state LED backlighting promising an exceptional MTBF of over 75,000 and an ultra-responsive time of 25 msec. Its impressive sunlight readability, 10.1” viewable area, 388 nits brightness, and 600:1 contrast ratio spotlight its extraordinary performance even in severe temperatures.

Key features of the XCM-101 include:

  • True Industrial Grade LCD Panel
  • Long-Life Advanced LED Backlighting, over 75,000 MTBF
  • 388 nits Brightness
  • Wide Operational Temperature Range -10°C to 65°C (14°F to 149°F)
  • High Environmental Performance and Reliability
  • Multiple Input Formats
  • Wide Aspect Ratio and Viewing Cone
  • USA Engineering, Production, and Support
  • Multi-Touch Projected Capacitive Touch Screen (up to 10 touches)
  • Exceptional Contrast
  • 1-Year Warranty

With 1280×800 pixels, the XCM-101 delivers an ultra-high-quality, durable LCD designed to resist the harshest conditions. Its multi-touch sensors, constructed with thick cover glass, offer robust impact resistance. Learn more about the rugged resilience and impressive performance of the XCM-101 and download the Product Sheet.

 


SRD-XM-101: Tailored for High Ambient Light Conditions

 
 
 

The SRD-XM-101 is a 10.1” industrial-grade LCD with robust specifications that allow it to perform under challenging environmental conditions. It excels in high ambient light conditions with a brightness of 1000 nits, a contrast ratio of 1000:1, and advanced LED backlighting.

Key features of the XCM-101 include:

  • True industrial-grade LCD panel with advanced LED backlighting
  • Brightness: 1000 nits; Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
  • Wide operational temperature range: -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F)
  • Multiple input formats: VGA, DVI, HDMI
  • RoHS compliant, with certifications from CE and FCC
  • Fan-less heat-dissipation structure for efficient performance
  • Durable, optically bonded 10-point projected capacitive touchscreen
  • Supports 16.7 million colors with ultra-wide viewing angles

With its ruggedized build, high environmental performance, and versatile mounting options, the SRD-XM-101 is a durable solution for harsh environments.

The monitor’s performance, 16.7 million possible colors, ultra-wide viewing angles, quick response time, ruggedized build, and exceptional contrast make it an ideal choice for any high ambient light condition, whether harsh outdoor or indoor applications. Learn more about the exceptional daylight readability and durability of the SRD-XM-101, and download the Product Sheet.

 


Beyond Standard: Custom Solutions & Speedy Delivery

At AbraxSys, we appreciate the time-sensitivity of our clients’ needs. Our extensive inventory ensures immediate dispatch of all our high-performance monitors to provide you with the right solutions when you need them.

Our committed team strives to handle each order professionally, accurately, and reliably. Moreover, if our off-the-shelf solutions don’t meet your precise requirements, our custom manufacturing services in the USA allow us to develop a tailored solution just for you.

For additional inquiries or to place an order, contact our team anytime.

How Many Nits Does My Screen Need for Sunlight Readability?

Working outdoors or in high-ambient-light environments such as maritime, aerospace, or oil and gas industries presents unique challenges – paramount among these is maintaining screen visibility under the sun’s relentless glare. The quality of your operations can depend heavily on the readability of your screens, and navigating the world of screen brightness can feel like a complex science.

So, how can you ensure that your display is always clear, crisp, and visible, no matter how intense the ambient light is? Welcome to the world of high-brightness monitors, where the key to sunlight readability lies in understanding and selecting the right display based on one crucial metric: nit counts.

Let’s delve into the science of screen brightness, break down the jargon, and help you understand exactly how many nits your screen needs for optimal sunlight readability.

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3 Reasons to Partner with AbraxSys for Your Custom Monitors

Custom, rugged, and sunlight-readable monitors are mission-critical to many demanding industries that operate in harsh and extreme environments where standard monitors cannot survive or function optimally. These specialized monitors are designed to withstand various environmental factors like severe temperatures, moisture, dust, vibration, and shock, making them ideal for use in rugged terrains and adverse weather conditions. Some of the most common uses for these monitors include fieldwork like geographical surveys and environmental assessments, military operations, outdoor events for sports, concerts, and festivals, and transportation industries, including aviation, maritime, and rail.

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Pelican-Style LCD Monitor Carrying Cases: Everything You Need to Know

If you spend any time working for, with, or around the modern military, industrial field work, first-responders, drones and ROVs, or the oil and gas industry, you’ve likely seen Pelican-type cases, be it Pelican, Nanuk, etc. Pelican Cases are a high-quality brand of hard protective cases for all types of sensitive equipment, from LCD monitors and all-in-one computers to photography equipment to weapons. These cases are also commonly seen at trade shows, events, and in entertainment production. In any sector where fragile and costly equipment needs to be transported or survive the elements, Pelican Cases are there.

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Your Guide to Sunlight-Readable Monitors

 

When display devices are used in direct sunlight or struck by other powerful reflective light sources, they frequently suffer from reduced visibility. At home or in the office, users can close the blinds or adjust their screen orientation. However, combatting lighting that overwhelms backlit LCD panels can be a major challenge in commercial, industrial, and military field applications. With the growth of the LCD panel industry as a whole, the importance of new technologies that prevent sunlight from washing out displays for outdoor use has never been greater.

Let’s take a quick look at what sunlight-readable monitors are, how they work, and where to get them.

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AbraxSys Announces Release of a New Wide-Format, Ultra-Rugged Line of 18.5” Touch Screen Panel LCD for Pelican Case Type Installations

Pipersville, PA – AbraxSys announced recently the release of a new series of 18.5” ultra-rugged, wide-format touchscreen, 1080P LCD monitors designed for Pelican case type installations. These LCD models meet a growing demand for a more rugged and robust LCD than typically available through other industry suppliers.

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