Wednesday, March 15th 2023
OnLogic Launches Helix 401 Compact Fanless Computer
In response to the increasing demand for powerful computing that can be relied on in a wide range of even the most challenging installation environments, leading industrial computing manufacturer and solution provider, OnLogic (www.onlogic.com), has unveiled their Helix 401 fanless industrial computer. The compact device is designed for use in edge computing, industry 4.0, Internet of Things (IoT), and many other emerging applications and will make its public debut at Embedded World 2023.
"You may never see them, but industrial computers are everywhere, working diligently to power technology solutions of every shape and size. These systems need to be small and reliable while still being just as powerful as high-end desktop machines," says Mike Walsh, Senior Product Manager at OnLogic. "The Helix 401 balances size and performance while providing a wide range of configuration possibilities to help users tailor it to their specific application. It's small enough to fit in your hand, similar in size to Intel's popular NUC, but capable enough to drive advanced automation solutions and power the next great smart agriculture, building automation or energy management innovation."
The Helix 401 can be configured with a range of 12th Generation Intel Core and Celeron processors (formerly known as Alder Lake). Users can select the processor that best suits their application needs, from general purpose data handling to complex machine vision or AI workloads, aided by onboard Intel Iris Xe Graphics. Intel's unique hybrid architecture adapts to user needs by directing the right thread to the right core, helping to optimize performance.
Operating System options include Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, and Ubuntu 22.04. The Helix 401 is also Red Hat Certified for use with Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.7, 9.1, and future versions.
OnLogic has implemented their Hardshell fanless technology to cool the Helix 401 passively, without the need for fans. The removal of the fan reduces points of failure, and eliminates virtually all noise, while allowing for a ventless enclosure design that helps protect internal components from airborne dust and other contaminants that can cause overheating or shorting.
To account for the varying devices it may need to interface with, connectivity on the Helix 401 includes 6 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (4 USB-A, 2 USB-C with Thunderbolt certification pending), dual 1Gb LAN ports, and dual DisplayPorts. Optional Digital Input/Output (DIO) as well as configurable COM or CAN bus connections, further bolster the system's communication capabilities.
Three M.2 slots provide additional expansion and customization, including available 4G and 5G-ready wireless for network redundancy or mobile installations. The system also features DDR5 memory for increased bandwidth and reduced latency, all while consuming less power than DDR4.
Helix 401 Key Features
"You may never see them, but industrial computers are everywhere, working diligently to power technology solutions of every shape and size. These systems need to be small and reliable while still being just as powerful as high-end desktop machines," says Mike Walsh, Senior Product Manager at OnLogic. "The Helix 401 balances size and performance while providing a wide range of configuration possibilities to help users tailor it to their specific application. It's small enough to fit in your hand, similar in size to Intel's popular NUC, but capable enough to drive advanced automation solutions and power the next great smart agriculture, building automation or energy management innovation."
Operating System options include Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, and Ubuntu 22.04. The Helix 401 is also Red Hat Certified for use with Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.7, 9.1, and future versions.
OnLogic has implemented their Hardshell fanless technology to cool the Helix 401 passively, without the need for fans. The removal of the fan reduces points of failure, and eliminates virtually all noise, while allowing for a ventless enclosure design that helps protect internal components from airborne dust and other contaminants that can cause overheating or shorting.
To account for the varying devices it may need to interface with, connectivity on the Helix 401 includes 6 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (4 USB-A, 2 USB-C with Thunderbolt certification pending), dual 1Gb LAN ports, and dual DisplayPorts. Optional Digital Input/Output (DIO) as well as configurable COM or CAN bus connections, further bolster the system's communication capabilities.
Three M.2 slots provide additional expansion and customization, including available 4G and 5G-ready wireless for network redundancy or mobile installations. The system also features DDR5 memory for increased bandwidth and reduced latency, all while consuming less power than DDR4.
Helix 401 Key Features
- 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake Hybrid-Core Processing
- i3-1220PE, i5-1250PE, i7-1270PE, Celeron 7305E
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- DDR5 Memory up to 64GB
- Wi-Fi and Cellular connectivity options
- Micro SIM slot
- 5G-ready via M.2
- Onboard PTT & Optional Discrete TPM
- Support for up to 4x displays
- Dual LAN
- 0 to 50°C operating temperature
- 12 to 24VDC power input
- Wall, DIN Rail and VESA mounting
2 Comments on OnLogic Launches Helix 401 Compact Fanless Computer
Now if they can make a version that is a little moar consumer-focused, I'd probably buy one, if only for its simple, straight-forward aesthetics !