Rugged devices can address the needs of many industry verticals that require mobile technology interoperability with operational equipment and back-office systems.

FREMONT, CA: Rugged technology is seeping into all sectors slowly, although this was not the case a few years ago. It is primarily used in construction, military, engineering, transportation, manufacturing, and industrial fields. In today’s world, we need technology to be available before we anticipate it, and rugged devices provide the ultimate solution for this. Of all, the availability of wireless networks has encouraged the mobility factor such that there is no need to worry about staying connected with someone in remote places. With rugged hardware, there is no need for anyone working in the oil rigs or climbing mountain as it can operate in harsh environments while abiding by the high standards of durability.

Most of the rugged devices comply with military standards (MIL-STD 810F), establishing suitability for military operations while exceeding the specifications applied to consumer and commercial-grade devices. This standard can identify shortcomings or any deficiencies in the design of equipment used to manufacture rugged devices. Military-grade laptops can withstand intense heat and sand of the desert. These rugged laptops are designed for ultra-portability that allows fast deployment and portability. Mobile computer manufacturers embrace specific standards for ruggedization testing, including testing protocols to simulate environmental stresses from humidity, rain, fog, vibration, extreme temperature, and many more. Many of the devices come loaded with Windows 10 operating system and portable keyboards to allow transition from an office to the field.

Manufacturing technologies utilized for rugged devices are leading the way over others. These days, lightweight and easy to handle devices are developed and sold in the market. Standard computers used now in the market are not suitable for outdoor environments for their average battery life and inability to withstand shocks, dust, and water. There are some qualities of rugged devices that consumer devices will not offer. Rugged devices are expensive, yet in the long run, there is no need for repairs and maintenance. Today’s rugged devices have been designed in a way enabling generational upgrades to be carried out seamlessly to extend the life of the technology used.