Review: NODKA eBOX-3240 Industrial Computer Under Jaroslav Blažek’s Close Inspection

NODKA industrial computers offer a wide range of applications and are available in several designs, including embedded versions for control cabinets, desktop models, and rack-mounted variants. Jaroslav Blažek (blaja.cz) tested the embedded version designated eBOX-3240. How was his experience working with this computer?

The robust construction of the eBOX-3240 is made of aluminum alloy, with passive cooling provided by the ribbed housing. For demanding industrial applications, NODKA also offers a version with a fan.

The number of ports is above standard: two Gigabit Ethernet ports, plus expansion slots inside. Details and specifications by model can be found here.

I had the version shown in the image below. The manufacturer supplies a large number of variants for each design.

The computer is powered by a 12 VDC adapter, 60 W.

Simply connect a keyboard and mouse to the USB ports and you’re ready to go. Windows 10 is preinstalled (the OS can be selected as needed); I just entered the user, location, and region details. We connected an ordinary monitor we had in the office, although NODKA also manufactures and supplies a wide range of industrial monitors.

To complete the installation, the NODKA computer needs an internet connection.

The entire setup process takes only a few minutes. Everything runs surprisingly quickly, although that is probably more a topic for IT specialists who deal with these installations. 😊

Done — Windows is running on a 120 GB SSD (disk size is optional). Of course, this is only the basic installation. For real operation, all updates and any additional software needed for the actual work still have to be installed.

Let’s take a look inside.

Drivers for all hardware are included in the installation.

On this version of the eBOX-3240, there are two green terminals that activate remote computer startup after connecting a potential-free contact or jumper.

The entire system is available.

And of course, the internet connection works immediately. 😊

This computer can also be powered via a NODKA supercapacitor — essentially a UPS for protection and short-term backup of 12 V and 24 V power supplies for industrial electronics. How this capacitor works and how long it can power this computer, for example, will be shown in the next article.

Jaroslav Blažek (blaja.cz)

Odkazy k článku:
NODKA product catalog for download 
Průmyslový počítač eBOX-3240 
More about NODKA Automation Technology Co.