A Paradigm Shift
For years, the industrial standard for computer control was monopolised by the x86 architecture (Intel/AMD). But with the advent of Industry 4.0 and the need for mass IoT deployments, the rules have changed.
Engineers in the UK are increasingly seeking a balance between performance, cost, and energy efficiency. This is where IWILL’s Panel PC solutions, based on ARM architecture (Rockchip), enter the picture. They are no longer simply a “cheap alternative” but powerful computing machines with built-in AI (artificial intelligence).
Visual Comparison: ARM vs x86 Architecture
Power Consumption Comparison
Practical benefit: Running 24/7, an ARM Panel PC with an RK3568 consumes ~87 kWh/year, whereas an Intel Core i5 system consumes ~394 kWh. That is a saving of over 300 kWh per endpoint – a significant difference in large-scale deployments of 50+ devices.
Technical Analysis: What Is Under the Bonnet?
Unlike x86 processors, which use a complex instruction set (CISC), ARM processors operate with a reduced instruction set (RISC). This leads to drastically lower energy consumption and less heat output – critical for fanless systems inside sealed enclosures.
In the ITPC-B (CP2) series, we integrate the three most current industrial Rockchip chips:
Entry Level
Rockchip RK3566
@ 1.8GHz
Best Seller
Rockchip RK3568
@ 2.0GHz
Access Control
Flagship
Rockchip RK3588
@ 2.4GHz
(8K video)
Robotics
Key takeaway: If you are developing a machine vision or facial recognition system, the RK3588 model offers 6 TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second) NPU capability, which is unattainable for standard Celeron processors in this price bracket.
Software Flexibility: Not Just Android
A common myth is that ARM computers only work as “oversized tablets” running Android. IWILL’s industrial series offers full support for open operating systems for developers:
Android 11 / 12
Ideal for rapid deployment of kiosk applications and operator interfaces.
Ubuntu Linux (18.04 / 20.04)
A full Linux environment for running Python scripts, Docker containers, and server applications.
OpenHarmony
Support for the new IoT device platform (available for the RK3568).
Durability and Connectivity
Moving to ARM does not mean compromising on ruggedness. The ITPC-B series maintains the IWILL industrial standard:
Temperature Range
Operates reliably from -10°C to +60°C – more than adequate for unheated warehouses in the UK.
Legacy Ports
Up to 4x COM ports (RS232/485) for connecting barcode scanners, scales, and PLC controllers.
Dual LAN Option
Two Gigabit LAN ports for separating the internal network (machines) from the external network (internet/cloud).
Which Solution Should You Choose? Flowchart
Who Is the ARM Solution Suited For?
Choose the IWILL ARM series if:
- Your application is web-based (Web HMI) or you have an existing Android application.
- You are looking for a cost-effective solution for large-scale deployment (e.g. 50+ checkout terminals).
- You need AI video processing (RK3588) without expensive external graphics cards.
Explore the ARM Models
Industrial Panel PC solutions with Rockchip ARM processors from the ITPC-B series.