Military computers were some of the earliest computers ever invented. Constant threats to the nation stimulated technological advancements in military computers. Since they were to be used by the military, these computers needed to be robust, portable, and fail-proof. One of the earliest transistorized computers, MOBIDIC, and one of the first laptop computers, the Grid Compass, were invented to meet the increasingly challenging military requirements.

Not just that, but the need for the computer that is small enough to fit through a submarine’s hatch led to the invention of more compact devices. There are lots of differences between a typical personal computer and a military one. That said, here’s a list of top things you should know about military computers.

1. Architecture

A computer’s architecture includes procedures, methods, or rules that determine its reliability, efficiency, and performance. Military computers have a unique architecture that is conventionally built around plug-in bus structures. Some military computer architectures are based on alternative bus structures like Compact PCI or VMEbus. Since military computers are designed to carry out specific tasks or for a specific application, they may not provide plug-in cards because of their task-specific structure.

2. Cost

As you might have already guessed, the expense of manufacturing military computers is way higher than that of computers made for personal or office use. The difference in costs can attribute to a variety of reasons, the primary reason being the quantity of production. Compared to personal computers, the amount of computers manufactured for the military is way less. The reduction in quantity automatically increases the cost of production.

Over that, the cost of materials for manufacturing ruggedized computers is way steeper in comparison. Military computers require powerfully built materials, more power supply, additional cooling fans, and so on. Naturally, the expense of manufacturing military computers exceeds the cost of making consumer computers.

3. Hardware

A military computer is much more robust than other models commonly found on the market. The individual parts and electronics of military computers are protected heavily to withstand any damaging force. For example, the circuit board of a military computer has layers of conformal coating to protect the board’s components.

The hardware components on the front panel of a military computer include a military LCD display, individually supported plug-in cards, memory chips glued into the socket, and more. The components are fitted securely to the device to keep them from moving in an event of a heavy shock. Military computers are meant to be strong and powerful enough to endure damaging forces.

4. Features

The components of military computers are made to last for years, if not decades. The military has certain systems that are tested and approved for use in manufacturing military computers. The computers are put through vibration and shock tests before installation and usage. Military computers might even be put through barge explosion tests and the torpedo hit tests if they’re to be installed on submarines.

Other types of environmental testing may include humidity, dust, salt, or storage and operating temperature tests. That said, a military computer is also tested for its electromagnetic compatibility. Believe it or not, the military has specifications for packaging, wiring, and workmanship that must be met by military computers.

5. Use

Computers are designed and assembled to meet the needs of users. Typical work computers or laptops are made to operate optimally in controlled environments like an office setup where temperatures are normal, humidity is balanced, and dust level is extremely low. Whereas, military computers require a sturdier and secure build. They are put to use in extreme temperatures and adverse weather conditions. Military computers are designed to be capable of withstanding high vibrations and shocks if used on a submarine.

If installed on a fighter jet, military computers must be able to operate at high altitudes and in unpressurized environments. They must also be crashworthy. The same computer must operate optimally in the bone-chilling cold of Alaska as well as the scorching heat of a desert.

In terms of cost, design, features, and usage, military computers are exceptionally more versatile than regular personal computers. The robustness and ruggedness of military computers are what separates them from typical devices, and that is what makes them capable of surviving the harsh situations and environments that military personnel generally have to operate in. Last but not least, all military computers adhere to the latest requirements of cryptography modules set by the U.S. government to address existing risks to cyber and national security, which makes them more secure than traditional models.