Skip to content
VI
Choosing a machine

The datasheet lists 5 Grms vibration and 50 G shock per MIL-STD-810. What do these numbers mean, and how do we compare machines?

IPC247 engineering Answered on 2026-09-16
Vibration is stated in Grms: the effective acceleration of random vibration over a frequency band, often 5–500 Hz. Higher means stronger vibration tolerance. Shock is stated in G with a pulse duration, for example 50 G for 11 ms: a sudden impact such as a drop or collision. MIL-STD-810 (revision G or H) is a US military standard describing test methods: Method 514 for vibration and Method 516 for shock. It defines how to test, while the vendor chooses the levels. So two machines both citing MIL-STD-810 may withstand different levels. Some vendors cite IEC 60068-2 with a similar meaning. Comparing correctly: 1. Compare the same units, frequency band and pulse duration. 2. Distinguish levels tested while running (operating) from switched off (non-operating). 3. Read the conditions: they almost always require an SSD, and often a specific mounting method. For machines on vehicles or constantly vibrating equipment, select by the operating vibration level.

Read more

Related questions

I need an industrial PC that runs Linux, Android and Windows, with a 10 inch screen, USB, LAN, WiFi and a capacitive tou… We want to run AI inference right on the production line (edge AI): should we choose an NVIDIA Jetson-based machine or a… We need to mount computers on forklifts, AGVs and delivery trucks. How is that different from a machine inside an electr… Our project installs computers in railway carriages and requires EN 50155. What does that standard demand from the machi… We need a small machine to collect data from PLCs, power meters and sensors and push it to a server. What configuration …

Is your case different?

Leave your number — an engineer will call back with advice for your exact situation.

We only use this number to answer your request.