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Kiosk Industries
Many traditional computers come in two parts: the computer and the monitor. The computer contains the operating hardware that drives the software, and the monitor is the screen that displays the software. All-in-one (AiO) touchscreens for kiosks, or panel PCs, combine the computer and monitor into one device.
From the outside, the all-in-one looks just like a monitor, however, it has a full computer inside. There are benefits to utilizing an all-in-one for your kiosk enclosure.
The smaller the footprint a computer can have, the smaller the footprint a kiosk can have. Kiosks using panel PCs don’t necessitate the storage space to house both a computer and a separate monitor, decreasing the amount of room required inside a kiosk.
In addition, AiOs use fewer cables because there is no longer a need to connect two separate devices. This, in turn, means the kiosk has fewer cords to conceal and there’s more room to connect cables to other devices within its enclosure.
Further, all-in-one computers are ideal for specific enclosures like wall kiosks because they reduce the depth of a kiosk and prevent it from sticking too far out from the wall. This is because a separate computer isn’t necessary to house, so the kiosk can have a slimmer profile.
In addition to the practicality of a smaller footprint, AiO touchscreens can offer a cleaner look to the design of the kiosk.
Sometimes, an interactive touchscreen is all that’s required for a kiosk enclosure. For instances like this, panel PCs are a good choice. Because many AiOs offer a closed frame solution, or a plastic enclosure around the monitor, it allows the kiosk to display the sides and back of the touchscreen while maintaining a polished look.
This is compared to an open frame solution, which would need to be fully integrated inside of a kiosk and not visible to the consumer. Because an open frame solution requires encasement, the entire kiosk is going to increase in size to accommodate it, which may or may not fit with a brand’s desired aesthetic.
Initially, all-in-one solutions are more expensive than standard monitors. However, keep in mind that a monitor still requires the main computer to drive the software it’s meant to display. Once the cost of the computer is added to the price of the monitor, the overall cost becomes more comparable to an all-in-one.
Another common concern about using AiO technology is the lack of available ports. While it’s true that AiO devices typically have limited USB ports available, this can be easily remedied by adding an external USB hub. Not only are these hubs inexpensive, but they require minimal room, leaving the kiosk’s small footprint intact.
Most all-in-one computers have important ports like USB, ethernet and power solutions located in the center of the back where the AiO connects to the rest of the kiosk. This will limit access and protect the ports from interference, while keeping the outward appearance of the overall kiosk looking clean.
All-in-one computers offer a sleek design option and take up very little space, affording kiosks a smaller footprint. Choosing panel PCs for a kiosk will streamline the buying process because only one device is needed.
AiO cost is also comparable to other kiosk computers, sometimes even being the more cost-effective option. Small hubs can also be fitted for additional port spaces, should they be needed.
For more information, check out the article, “Common PC Options” to learn about all-in-one computers and other PC options.
