A box PC is a personal computer enclosed in a box intended for industrial or embedded applications where a robust general purpose computing solution is required. They are typically fan-less with molded external heat sinks as part of the box. An adapter may be available to mount the box directly in a standard rack size or there may be wall mounted chassis options. Box PCs are specifically designed for standalone operation and long-life operation with high reliability in a specified temperature range. The temperature range may be much higher commercial PCs – with wide temperature range options capable of -40^oC to 70^oC ambient temperatures. Box PCs can be found with high performance specifications for dust ingression, sealing, water resistance, vibration and shock.

Railway computers are a special variety of boxed PC with built in high isolation I/O and ruggedized connectors specific to railway applications. They can have very wide voltage range DC and AC power supply options to allow a good fit with railway power systems. Some box PCs are fanned systems – usually in applications where low cost is important and long life expectancy is not required. Such devices are used in applications such as digital signage systems.

Box PCs are available in a wide variety of configurations from low processor performance ‘entry level’ systems to ultra-slim, palm-sized low power consumption units. High performance CPU systems are also available. A variant of the box PC is the single LCD panel box PC. These are designed for applications like factory monitoring stations and building automation. These may incorporate a rugged touchscreen interface. Industrial grade box PCs are becoming increasingly common in vehicle systems, incorporating special vehicle power supply units (PSU), wireless and on-board GPS. These must adhere to automotive regulatory compliances.