The Edge is Just the Beginning – Advancing Edge Computing Hardware with OnLogic

OnLogic, co-founded by Lisa Groeneveld and her husband Roland, designs and manufactures industrial and rugged computers for edge computing. The company, headquartered in Vermont, has grown from a small operation in a Boston apartment to a global business with locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Lisa shared the story of how the company started by importing mini ITX motherboards and selling them online, leveraging the early days of e-commerce and Google AdWords to reach customers. Over time, OnLogic expanded its product offerings and built strong relationships with clients by understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions. Today, the company has shipped over 800,000 systems and components, serving industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and logistics.

OnLogic’s computers are designed to operate in harsh environments, making them ideal for industries that require high reliability and durability. Lisa highlighted examples of how OnLogic’s rugged computers are used in various applications, such as in the manufacturing processes of companies like Bridgestone and Michelin, and in Amazon’s fulfillment centers. She also shared a case study of Steel Dynamics, which needed computers that could withstand high vibration and extreme temperatures in their industrial setting. Another notable project involved Universal Studios, where OnLogic provided computers for kiosks in their water park, ensuring they could handle wide temperature ranges and outdoor conditions. These examples illustrate the versatility and robustness of OnLogic’s products, which are used in a wide range of industries and environments.

OnLogic’s approach to business is rooted in its core values of being open, fair, independent, and innovative. The company prides itself on transparency, offering open pricing and sharing financial information with employees. This culture of openness extends to their customer relationships, where they provide customizable solutions through a configurator on their website, allowing clients to tailor products to their specific needs. Lisa emphasized that OnLogic’s edge computing solutions are not just endpoints but the beginning of meaningful processes for their customers. One example she shared was a project involving AI systems at the base of wind turbines to prevent harm to migratory birds, showcasing how OnLogic’s technology can contribute to solving global challenges.