Maximizing Return on Investment: Commodity vs Industrial-Grade Touchscreens

By Tersa Harper, VP of Sales & Marketing, UICO

In industrial environments, the choice between industrial-grade touchscreens and commodity touchscreens significantly impacts operational efficiency and long-term costs. While standard touchscreens may offer lower upfront costs, industrial-grade touchscreens provide superior durability and functionality, leading to a more favorable return on investment (ROI) over time.

Understanding the Differences in Touch Screens

Industrial-Grade Touchscreens

Industrial-grade touchscreens are engineered to withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, moisture, dust, and vibrations. These touchscreens are built with rugged materials and often feature optically bonded displays to prevent damage from exposure to industrial elements. They are designed for continuous operation and are compatible with industrial machinery, supporting features like gloved operation and water resistance.

Commodity Touchscreens

Commodity touchscreens are typically designed for indoor use in controlled environments like offices and retail stores. While they may offer user-friendly interfaces and high-resolution displays, they lack the ruggedness required for industrial settings. These touchscreens are not built to endure constant usage or harsh conditions, making them less reliable for industrial applications.

Evaluating ROI:

Industrial vs. Standard Commodity Touchscreens

1. Durability and Maintenance

Industrial-grade touchscreens have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance due to their robust construction. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs, contributing to a higher ROI.

2. Operational Efficiency

The reliability of industrial touchscreens ensures uninterrupted operations, enhancing productivity. Their compatibility with industrial systems allows for seamless integration, further improving efficiency.

3. Total Cost of Ownership

Although the initial investment for industrial-grade touchscreens is higher, the total cost of ownership is lower over time due to reduced maintenance, fewer replacements, and increased productivity.

Conclusion

While standard commodity touchscreens may offer short-term savings, industrial-grade touchscreens provide long-term value through durability, reliability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Investing in industrial-grade touchscreens is a strategic decision that can lead to significant cost savings and improved ROI in industrial applications.

Tersa Harper is the Vice President of Sales & Marketing at UICO, a leader in rugged touchscreen solutions.