Military Grade is a term we hear often but do you know what it actually means?  When you hear “Military Grade” you probably think rugged, built to last, or even military green.  Military Grade is often used in advertising because we have been taught that it means higher quality.  However, if a product is actually Military Grade it means that it has been tested to the specs of what the military would expect.  These tests are called the “MIL-Spec“, which we have some more information on our blog regarding MIL specs and what they mean.

Essentially a MIL-spec is the specifications of how something is to be tested.  The testing of the product is essential to ensure that the product can hold up to the tolerances defined by the military.  The military holds very tight expectations of their materials and products due to having them be interchangeable for a variety of needs.   This makes the military much more efficient and they also know their products will stand up to their needs.  True Military Grade products will follow the MIL specs.  However, this isn’t always the case.  Marketing has taken over the terminology of “Military Grade” as well.   

Military Grade Products Made Here

At CMI, we can design and construct true Military Grade products.  Circuit boards leave very little room for error.  These boards have a lot of tiny components that need to work appropriately together in a very small space. We cannot have the circuit board to expand and contract with changing temperatures for example.  The material needs to be stable as well as our processes.  The small components need to have very small tolerances.  This allows us to produce these in mass production with extremely good quality.  

The term “Military Grade” isn’t always used correctly.  However, our testing labs do our testing according to the needed MIL-spec.  Each MIL-spec has very specific specifications that are spelled out for the testing lab to adhere too.  

Circuit Boards Have Tight TolerancesMilitary Grade Boards

Computer circuit boards have very small and tight tolerance so it only makes sense for us to offer Military Grade products that pass the necessary MIL specs.  We understand the importance and need for these specs and don’t use the term in vain.  These stringent requirements are needed to control and test such things such as:

  • Altitude requirements
  • Shock and vibration
  • Temperature extremes 
  • Water-resistant requirements
  • and more.

Many civilians believe “Military Grade” just means higher quality.  Manufacturers can put these terms on products and demand a premium for the products.  However, to a circuit board manufacturer, it is a means of production.  We understand that sometimes the terms are misused to make products sound better.  However, this isn’t the case here.  Well, we do have high-quality products but they follow the specs that are used in the military during production as well as materials.  It is important to us that we have the very best for our clients and customers.  We understand these specs and test them regularly.  This sort of robust product is going to be used in all kinds of different electrical components.  Because of this, it should be up to the standards that are expected of them.

Have special a design that requires Military Grade design and construction? Not sure about the first steps and process for your project? We can help and create the exact product for your needs and requirements. Call us today for a free consultation.