Industrial pointing devices consist of trackballs, trackpads, and mice. These instruments help in various commercial and industrial applications. Their functioning is similar to that of a mouse. They allow the user to navigate around the screen. However, unlike computer mice, pointing devices may or may not be attached to the application.
How to Choose an Industrial Pointing Device?
When purchasing an industrial pointing device, it is important to consider some factors that shape your experience. Here are a few pointers to help you choose an appropriate industrial pointing device.
- Installation
Depending on the rest of the components and processes, decide on the method of installation. You can choose between OEM (mounted in an enclosure), panel mount, and Plug-n-Play - Environmental Factors
Whether the device will be used indoors or outdoors, accordingly you will have to protect it from environmental factors
Industrial Pointing Devices
- Operating Temperature
The temperature range that the device will be working at in application - Application Environment
This includes the substances (oil, water, grease, chemicals, EMI, RFI, dirt, etc.) that your device will be exposed to in application - Special Conditions
You are free to speak to your manufacturer regarding other special conditions of the application that need to be considered when designing and manufacturing the pointing device
It is important to purchase devices that are not affected by EMI and RFI signals. To achieve this, manufacturers will use various materials like gold and other vibration dampening material as buffer. This helps in shielding the device as well. It is imperative that your manufacturer takes care of all these factors when fabricating your device.
Technical Guide to Select an Industrial Pointing Device
When making a selection, consider the operational frequency, presence and degree of vibration, and other interface requirements. Ensure that the manufacturer has been thoroughly briefed regarding your requirements. This will allow him/her to produce a device that fits in with the rest of the applications. Industrial pointing devices should be dependable since they are used in critical applications.