How to Choose an Industrial Display: Buyer's Guide

Step 1: Choose Screen Size and Aspect Ratio

Industrial monitors range from 7" to 55". Choose based on viewing distance and information density:

• 7"–10" — machine-mounted, close viewing
• 12"–15" — standard SCADA workstation
• 17"–21" — control room, multi-parameter display
• 24"–32" — supervisor overview screens and video wall tiles

Step 2: Brightness for Your Environment

• 250–350 nits — standard indoor, ambient-lit environment
• 500–700 nits — bright factory floor with overhead lighting
• 1000+ nits — semi-outdoor, near windows, direct sunlight exposure

Step 3: Touch Technology

• Resistive touch — works with gloves; single-touch only; lower cost; suitable for simple HMI use
• Capacitive touch — multi-touch, fast response; requires bare fingers or conductive gloves
• PCAP (Projected Capacitive) — most responsive; water-rejection algorithms; best choice for new installations

Step 4: IP Rating and Mounting

For panel-mount or open-frame monitors, confirm the front-panel IP rating. IP65 is the minimum for most factory environments. Open-frame monitors (no bezel or case) are installed inside custom enclosures and can have full IP65/IP67 front seals.

Step 5: Interface

Check that the display interface (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI, or LVDS) matches your computer's outputs. For embedded systems, LVDS or eDP connections are common. For external monitors, HDMI or DisplayPort is standard.

TSL Automation supplies Avalue open-frame and panel-mount industrial monitors in sizes from 7" to 21.5" — contact us to find the right display for your project.