Can I Use my sbRIO or cRIO Outside of the Environmental Specification?

Updated Jul 4, 2022

Issue Details

We are on the design phase, and would like to know if there are any tests on the behavior of the embedded controllers over the specified 5000m altitude and outide the temperature range.

Solution

We do have have tests over the sbRIOs and cRIOIs on higher than the specified altitude. While it won't stop working at 5001 m altitude, we can't guarantee correct operation outside the specifications. 
 
One of the biggest drivers for the maximum altitude in many RIO modules' rating is the safety isolation present. Many of these products are designed to IEC/UL/etc specifications for measurement equipment safety rating (CAT I, CAT II, etc). Those specifications dictate maximum altitude and/or a derating above the specified altitude. This is due largely in part to the effective dielectric strength of air decreasing with altitude. 

Temperature wise, the electronic can start malfunctioning it the maximum value is exceeded, and on the specification sheet it's strongly advised to not exceed those limits. 

 

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