Computer Dynamics Announces Ruffneck™ Zone 1 Explosion Proof Computer

  • Approved for ATEX Zone 1 applications
  • Meets certification needs of customers in the HAZLOC environment
  • Sunlight-readable screen
  • Touchscreen operable by gloved hand
  • CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA September 18, 2007 Confirming the company’s reputation as a leading developer of computing solutions designed for deployment in the harshest environments, Computer Dynamics, a GE Fanuc company, today announced the Ruffneck™ Zone 1 Explosion Proof Computer. Approved for ATEX Zone 1 applications, and meeting the certification needs of customers in the HAZLOC environment, it can be used in virtually any application that requires protection against environmental factors as well as against careless or abusive operation. The Ruffneck Zone 1’s screen is characterized by viewing enhancement filters to enhance readability in any lighting conditions – including direct sunlight - and by an impact-resistant, projected capacitive touchscreen capable of both bare- and gloved hand operation. Based on a single board computer with an Intel® Pentium® M 1.6 GHz processor, the Ruffneck Zone 1 features a 15” diagonal LCD flat screen and can be configured with up to 2 GBytes of DDRAM and a 40 GBytes hard drive (CompactFlash-based solid state storage is optionally available). The unit offers two network options including wireless Ethernet, and features a watchdog timer and software dimming. It supports Microsoft’s Windows XP operating system. “Flat panel display systems are becoming increasingly popular in the commercial and industrial sectors,” said Adrian Bernhard, General Manager, Commercial Products and Systems at GE Fanuc Embedded Systems. “The announcement of the Ruffneck Zone 1 Computer builds on our existing, proven Wolverine product and allows us to apply our packaging expertise to providing leading edge products that meet and exceed customer needs in the HAZLOC environment. It is the optimum solution for companies who need to deploy computing in hazardous and harsh environments.” Thanks to its optional internal heaters and thermal management system, the Ruffneck is capable of operating in temperatures as low as -40° C (and as high as +60° C), while its rugged NEMA4 enclosure can be used in wet/wash down environments or outdoors. The Ruffneck weighs 45 lbs: mounting options include yoke and VESA arm mount (standard). About GE Fanuc Embedded Systems Computer Dynamics is a wholly owned subsidiary of GE Fanuc, with its business closely aligned with that of GE Fanuc Embedded Systems, a leading global provider of embedded computing solutions for a wide range of industries and applications. Featuring a comprehensive offering that includes Intel® and PowerPC®-based Single Board Computers, sensor processing networking products, avionics interfaces, rugged flat panel monitors and complete computer systems, GE Fanuc Embedded Systems can support the full range of embedded computing needs. GE Fanuc Embedded Systems is part of GE Fanuc, a joint venture between General Electric (NYSE: GE) and FANUC LTD of Japan. For more information, visit www.gefanucembedded.com. ### Note to editors: High res image can be found at Ruffneck Zone 1 Computer high res Contact: Ian McMurray, GE Fanuc Embedded Systems +44 (0) 1327 322821 ian.mcmurray@gefanuc.com