Choosing the Right Edge AI Hardware
This is the second article in Teguar’s Edge AI Series, defining and discussing Edge AI and its implementation in industrial applications. To catch up on the series, start here to read What is Edge AI?.
Edge AI is a CPU-intensive application and requires hardware that can keep up—doubly so if your Edge AI device is installed in a harsh industrial setting. But how can you be sure that your chosen computer will be able to support edge AI applications?
Read on to explore some critical factors to making Edge AI work in your facility, or browse Teguar Edge AI computers.
Performance
Teguar offers a wide range of Intel® processing power options in their rugged computers, from Celeron to Core™ i9. High-efficiency Celeron units are perfect for tasks with a low power draw like digital signage, but for edge computing and artificial intelligence, you’ll need stronger performance. Intel Core i series bring more cores for faster processing, enabling faster decision times.
Learn more about choosing a CPU for your industrial computer in our video.
For the right Edge AI device, consider a processor on the faster end, such as Intel’s Core i Series.
Storage
One of the benefits of edge computing is the speed saved by managing all data on-premises. This necessitates mass storage on your device, as it won’t be able to rely on the cloud for additional storage. Consider SSD sizes from 512GB to 1TB, though your needs may vary.
Many Edge AI devices have more than one storage bay for two 2.5” SATA SSDs. Teguar’s upcoming Rugged AI Box PC supports up to five different storage drives, including the two 2.5” along with M.2 2280.
I/O
For the steadiest and fastest connection, hardwired connections far outclass wireless ones. To accommodate multiple peripherals, the ideal Edge AI device needs a high quantity and wide variety of I/O. Teguar offers several units that support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which streamlines cable management by eliminating the need for a power cord.
Look for USB and LAN ports for your Edge AI device, as well as GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) for maximum versatility.
Wireless connectivity
Across a large facility, it may not be possible to hardwire every device to your Edge AI computer. Wireless connection is needed for data aggregation and control. This connection can be Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, Bluetooth, or a combination of them. Even if your setup doesn’t require wireless connectivity, ensuring your Edge AI device has the capability makes for a future-proof solution.
Especially for applications such as mobile workstations and large or spread-out facilities, the right Edge AI hardware ought to support Wi-Fi, BT, and/or cellular.
Environment
Some applications require hardware with specialized protective enclosures or fanless cooling solutions, including:
- Industrial facilities with dust or other particulates
- Marine applications near water
- Cleanrooms or other washdown facilities
- Medical or hygienically sensitive environments.
A passively-cooled fanless device resists dust and moisture ingress, and stainless steel enclosures can resist water up to an IP69K rating. To harness the power of edge computing and the many benefits it brings in these challenging environments, the right Edge AI device needs to be built to last.
Teguar boasts a catalog of fully rugged industrial computers, with fanless, MIL-STD-810H, and IP69K stainless steel options, bringing rugged computing to the edge.
Choosing the Right Edge AI Hardware
Teguar’s experts are available to chat with you about your facility or project needs to discern what Edge AI devices would be right for you.
Check out Teguar Edge AI computers here or contact us below today.
