Case Study: NODKA Panel PCs and Computers as the Foundation of Dubax Projects

Case Study from the Company Dubax  

Self-service equipment for unattended gas stations must operate 24/7 — in frost, heat, dust, and vibrations. Without outages. Without restarts. At the same time, it must be simple and intuitive for every driver.

The Czech gas station network KM - PRONA Trading approached its long-term solutions supplier, Dubax, to develop a self-service device for paying for refueling at one of their stations. Today, two different variants are already in operation, and a third version is awaiting installation. Their foundation is high-quality NODKA hardware.

Assignment

Dubax’s customer needed a fast, reliable, and user-friendly solution to ensure unattended operation of a gas station in central Moravia in 24/7 mode.

Dubax’s Solution

Dubax designed and manufactured a modular solution built on a rugged industrial panel PC with a capacitive touchscreen display, the TPC6000. After fitting the enclosure with all hardware and adapting specialized gas-station software, they put the device into operation. The solution can now be scaled across the entire network.

The self-service box includes in particular:

• A user terminal for controlling dispensing and confirming the transaction
• Integration with a fueling card reader and the payment system
• Connection to the gas station’s technology (pumps, control logic, safety elements)
• A receipt printer and other peripherals

“What I like about working with FOXON is that the technicians or the sales rep immediately advise me on which product is best suited for our current project.”

Martin Šourek, Dubax, Sales Representative

Why Dubax Chose NODKA Products

1) Ruggedness for outdoor and unattended operation

NODKA products, including the industrial panel used, are designed for:

• Stable operation across a wide temperature range
• Long-term operation without restarts
• Harsh environments (dust, vibrations, humidity)

2) Standardization across the station network

Thanks to standardization, the network operator can:

• Deploy the same device in multiple locations
• Speed up installations at additional stations
• Improve operational efficiency through an unattended model

3) Proven experience from a previous project

Dubax had already tested the NODKA brand earlier. They deployed the eBOX 32-40 industrial computer in equipment at a brewery and confirmed that it operates reliably in a demanding environment with higher humidity and interference.

Self-Service Dispenser No. 2: A “Drawer” Computer

The assignment for the next version came with a key limitation: the entire system had to fit into the very limited space inside a fuel dispenser that was pre-prepared for integrating a custom solution.

For a suitable hardware recommendation, Dubax turned to us again. We chose the compact eBOX 32-40 industrial computer with solid performance and passive cooling. The 12 V power supply also made it possible to save space in the “drawer” thanks to a smaller power unit.

“Our customers want to receive the ordered system as quickly as possible. That’s why we need a reliable partner for supplying individual components.”

Filip Hess, Dubax, IT Service Technician

Prototype No. 3: A Large Panel, Flexible Placement

While the first variant was hung on a pole and the second integrated into the internal space of the dispenser, the third prototype combines the benefits of both: a large and comfortable panel PC on a free-standing stand that can be positioned according to the gas station’s spatial layout.

Helping Deliver End Customers’ Intentions

Flexibility is Dubax’s domain. Their information and comprehensive systems are built to fit specific customers. At FOXON, we strive to help companies like Dubax turn their customers’ visions into reality. That is why we continuously look for new interesting products at home and abroad.

“In FOXON’s online shop, we can clearly see all technical parameters of the products. In the configurator, we simply choose the type of RAM, SSD drive, or operating system, and we can place an order.”

Martin Šourek, Dubax, Sales Representative

Interested in Custom Self-Service Terminals?

• Contact Dubax if you need a comprehensive solution for:
  • Kiosks
  • Self-service terminals
  • Rugged panels for public use

• Contact our technical support at support@foxon.cz if you need help selecting NODKA industrial computers, operator panels / panel PCs, and monitors.
  We will recommend a specific model based on the environment, available space, or performance requirements.

Dubax s.r.o. is a Liberec-based company that connects design, technology, and development into one whole. They create custom information and comprehensive systems tailored to the client’s needs, and they build websites from graphic design through coding to web hosting and administration. Their approach is based on individual solutions and on finding ways to eliminate routine and automate processes. An example of this philosophy is their modular platform Xasistent.