Radstone Digital Processing, an operating division of Radstone Embedded Computing, specialise in the development and manufacturer of 'rugged' high performance, embedded computer products, subsystems and support software for defence and aerospace applications.
Based in Towcester, Radstone Digital Processing has adopted open system standards, both in hardware and software, so that products are capable of inter-operation with other products conforming to the same standards. Development of new leading-edge products is a key differentiator between Radstone and their competitors' technology.
Radstone required a supplier of front panel assemblies that could produce a consistently high quality product to their specification, with reliable delivery times. The product should be capable of operating in the harshest and most demanding environments. Rittal Electronic Systems were finally chosen as that supplier.
Our customers demand the very highest standards from us, said Nigel Hutley, [Senior Buyer] of Radstone Digital Processing, and it's vital that the suppliers we work with are able to support us in achieving those standards. We've been delighted with the way in which our relationship with Rittal has developed, and the commitment they have shown to helping us deliver the products our customers expect from us.
Rittal's front panels are assembled to Radstone's specifications with a U shaped front panel to which a stainless steel EMC gasket is applied along one edge ensuring both electrical and mechanical bonding to any adjacent panels in the system. Holes for LEDs and switches are machined, as are the cut-outs to enable other equipment to be accurately fitted.
Following the machining operations, the panels are cleaned and chromated to ensure long-term conductivity and then screen-printed to suit the individual product type. Before shipping in purpose made packaging, Rittal assemble the EMC gasket and short reach extractor handles (Type I) using stainless steel screws.
The handles provide a balanced pull on both sides of the board to prevent damage from twisting or tensional forces during extraction.The panel and processor cards, such as the PPC4A, form an assembly that is ready to ship to Radstone's customers for integration into their systems.
With Rittal's global presence replacement parts are always available should accidental breakage occur.Rittal are able to supply the panels to Radstone's specification in the required time frame and to the high quality standards that are essential to a high technology equipment manufacturer. This has resulted in a very high score during repeated vendor appraisals.