The Raspberry Pi ecosystem of tiny computers has many uses, as we may have mentioned once or twice, but it never was (despite being shot in space) is particularly robust. All of that is about to change, as a rugged mission computer powered by the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 has emerged from the Defense Solutions division of former aircraft manufacturer Curtiss-Wright.
The company, which now supplies components for the aerospace, oil and gas, and commercial nuclear industries, introduced the Parvus DuraCOR Pi, a fully ruggedized computer fully compatible with the full Raspberry Pi ecosystem. Its rugged MIL-STD waterproof housing aims for optimal performance in harsh operating environments, while remaining small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.
Based on Compute Module 4 and with an extension based on the common HAT system used with other Pi models, the DuraCOR Pi transmits GPIO signals through a MIL-STD-38999 connector (a sealed cylindrical connector that runs wires without leaving holes through which sand or dust could enter, and with a screw or bayonet connector) outside the case. There’s also mini PCIe, which we have to assume, given the form factor, would connect to components housed in their own enclosures.
The company envisions the DuraCOR Pi for use in wearable and vehicular computing, such as UAV control (it weighs only half a pound), as well as all outdoor or even underground computing applications, its IP67-rated enclosure and its qualification to MIL-STD levels include resistance to shock, heat (-40 Celsius to 85 Celsius), vibration, altitude (up to 50,000 feet), humidity and interference electromagnetic fields, making it perfect for almost any harsh environment. It can also withstand submersion in one meter of water for 30 minutes.
The compute module in place is the 4GB version, and the system is available with and without an extension ring and connector set. A breakout cable set and an additional connection ring are available separately.
Curtiss-Wright doesn’t say how much the DuraCOR Pi can be had for, but if you want to outfit your laptop army, you can request a quote on its product page.
