Lenovo has unveiled two embedded computers engineered for use in edge computing scenarios requiring performance, security, and durability.
Due in mid-2021, the ThinkEdge SE30 and ThinkEdge SE50 both premiered at this year’s Embedded World conference, which is taking place online this week.
The ThinkEdge SE30 is a compact, fan-less unit designed to accommodate operational temperatures ranging from -20 to 60 Celsius. It is powered by 11th Generation Intel Core i5 vPro processors and provides up to 16GB memory and 1TB of storage.
The first ThinkEdge SE30 models to reach market will include 4G connectivity. 5G connectivity with support from leading carriers will arrive in the second half of the year.
The ThinkEdge SE50 is designed for workloads that need more local power to process and analyze data from Internet of Things sensors. Configurations are available with 11th Generation Intel Core i7 or i5 vPro processors, up to 32GB of memory, and up to 2TB of storage. Tailored to the demands of harsh industrial environments, the device can handle operating temperatures from 0 to 50 degrees Celsius and has an IP50 rating against dust contamination.
Both new ThinkEdge products are backed by a Lenovo-certified family of software makers, OEMs, and integrators that includes Telit, IMS Evolve, and Software AG.
The latest additions to the ThinkEdge portfolio arrive at a time of rapid growth for edge computing, in which manufacturers are using predictive maintenance to reduce downtime and smart cameras to spot safety and product quality issues; retailers are implementing automated checkout and dynamic signage solutions while performing real-time store traffic monitoring, inventory management, and fulfillment; and healthcare providers are installing remote patient monitoring and medical device integration solutions.
Global spending on edge computing technology will climb at a 12.5% CAGR through 2024 to $250 billion, according to IDC.
“Edge computing is critical infrastructure for intelligent transformation within the enterprise,” said Jon Pershke, vice president of strategy and emerging business for Lenovo’s Intelligent Devices Group, in prepared remarks. “The new products in the ThinkEdge portfolio are purpose-built devices designed to be networked on premise or embedded in solutions to give Lenovo’s customers an advantage in performance, security and scalability.”
Research published by Lenovo last December found that 59% of surveyed organizations are looking to implement new edge computing solutions within the next six months, and that 82% agreed that real-time data collection and analysis are where edge solutions are making the most impact on their business.
