A number of ExPC units are already in operation in mines in Germany and China being utilised on shields, plows, shearers, CST drives, power train controls and visualisation in longwall systems with up to 300 shields.

The ExPC design encompasses pressure-proof housing, intrinsically safe ports, rugged impact-resistant protective viewing cover made of borosilicate quartz glass. The waterproof keyboard, with built-in mouse, ensure that the ExPC works safely and efficiently even in dusty environments or areas endangered by mine gas.

The unit has ATEX certification (Group I*) and type approval for chemical applications (Group IIA T4). A wide range of ports (also for wireless connections) offer easy data exchange, while the built-in Internet access allows worldwide remote diagnostics and maintenance.

The ExPC has been equipped with a 400 MHz Pentium III processor (or higher), 128 MB RAM, a 1GB flash drive and a 30GB hard drive.

A high-resolution graphics card (1280 x 1024 pixels) allows for excellent visualisation of process data.

Used for the control and monitoring of fully automated longwall systems, the ExPC comes with a lockable desk stand for safe and secure storage of accessories.