NEXCOM unveils rugged AI computer for agriculture & industry
NEXCOM has introduced the ATC 3561-NA4C, an edge AI computer designed to deliver NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano performance in demanding environments.
The ATC 3561-NA4C utilises the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano System-on-Module, delivering up to 67 INT8 Sparse TOPS of AI inference performance on its 8GB variant when operating in Super Mode. This performance capability is designed to support a range of autonomous operations, particularly within smart agriculture, as well as for broader use cases such as transportation and industrial automation.
The computer is equipped to address tasks including autonomous driving and robotics, where real-time AI decision-making is required in scenarios such as planting, weeding, crop care and harvesting. The robust construction and communication features suit it for deployment in both agricultural machinery and transport systems, as well as edge servers for functions like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), autonomous mobile robots (AMR), machine learning, intelligent transportation systems (ITS), railway safety, and factory automation.
Connectivity
The ATC 3561-NA4C has four Gigabit Ethernet PoE ports, making it compatible with networks of IP cameras and LiDAR sensors commonly deployed in agricultural domains and other automated environments. It supports data transfer and peripheral connection through CAN bus, RS-232, digital I/O, and OTG interfaces. The inclusion of optional GNSS, 5G New Radio, and Wi-Fi 5/6 modules further extends its capability for wireless communication and real-time navigation.
According to NEXCOM, these long-range wireless communication options make possible applications such as connecting in real time with CPS (Cyber-Physical Systems) for AI model retraining, so enhancing inference precision in the field.
For storage, the system relies on an M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD. It also provides HDMI output, supported by hardware video decoding through HEVC/H.265, plus four USB sockets for display and user interface purposes. The AI computer includes NEXCOM's Acceleration Linux (NAL) operating system integrated with NVIDIA JetPack 6.2.
Durability
Designed for ruggedness and reliability, the ATC 3561-NA4C is housed in a palm-sized case that adheres to MIL-STD-810H certification, ensuring resistance to shock and vibration. This design enables the device to operate within a temperature range of -25°C to 65°C, helping to maintain consistent real-time AI operations in harsh or changing environments.
The device can be configured as fanless to reduce maintenance needs, and supports a standard DC power supply with a voltage range of 9V to 36V, or via a 24V rail with ignition control.
Use cases
While the computer was designed primarily for smart agriculture, its features also make it suitable for other sectors where AI at the network edge is required. These include transportation systems, construction, advanced safety and recognition systems, autonomous robotics, and various industrial applications.
The system is designed to support integration with cyber-physical systems, enabling continual AI model updating and refinement, thereby enhancing operational accuracy over time. This connectivity, in conjunction with its computational and environmental resilience, positions the ATC 3561-NA4C as an option for organisations deploying autonomous solutions in conditions that are not suitable for traditional IT equipment.
According to NEXCOM, the four GbE PoE ports are ideal for the IP cameras and LiDAR sensors that are typically required in agricultural applications. Local data transfer, peripheral connection and monitoring are handled by CAN bus, RS-232, digital I/O, and OTG interfaces. Optional GNSS, 5G NR, and Wi-Fi 5/6 modules enable navigation and a wide operating range with wireless communications.
The NEXCOM ATC 3561-NA4C aims to provide AI capability at the edge for businesses requiring rugged performance, broad connectivity options, and operational stability in challenging or variable environments.
