What You Should Know About Rugged Computers

Featured article by Allen Brown, Independent Technology Author

We all know what a typical computer is and even though some of you have probably heard of the term “rugged computer” it’s highly likely that you do not have the exact definition. To simplify things, it can be defined as a device that can function under many difficult working conditions.

This computer can work properly for many years. Now, keep in mind that what is rugged for one person may not be for someone else. For instance, a computer that is being utilized in the stockroom is going to be exposed to dirt or dust, not to snow or rain.

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On the other hand, a device that is being used outside will face many weather difficulties. All this info serves to give you a better perspective of what this computer represents. There’s more to it and if we managed to pique your curiosity, keep reading to learn more.

Interesting Facts About This Gadget

The Uniqueness of It

Those people that lead normal lives, with relatively ordinary jobs do not necessarily need this type of computer. The classic ones will easily satisfy their needs. Namely, the rugged devices are purposefully developed to meet minimum industry-standard characteristics that transcend those applied to commercial-grade gadgets.

As mentioned in the beginning, these devices are extremely elastic and tough and can handle different environmental elements. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating system, along with the U.S. Department of Defense “Test Method Standard for Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests” are two modus that can determine the ruggedness.

How to tell if a certain computer can fit into this category? Well, in order to gain this “title” it has to be rated at least IP54, which means that this gadget comes with outstanding water protection, as well as dust protection.

A Quality and Job That Needs to Be Done

The quality of this device is an aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked. On the market, you can stumble upon a full line of military computers and servers with different levels of ruggedness. For example, if the person is often exposed to extreme temperatures or dangerous locations, then it’s best to purchase a device with a high level of ruggedness, which comes with an IP67 or IP68.

For hazardous locations, the best choice is to go for the Archer 2 Hazloc. If you will not be using it in these conditions, then this level of ruggedness is not necessary. Prices may vary. If you pick a cheaper version, then you will relatively quickly need to replace the handheld.

How Can We Define It?

Perceive this computer as a tool that helps people do their job properly. If you want to get the job done, you simply must buy a computer that is going to “survive” every type of working conditions.

Even if you purchase a device that is a little bit “too rugged”,  that’s a better option than to buy one that isn’t rugged enough. An experienced seller will know how to recognize it. So, the question is – how can we actually define this term?

Viz, the level of rugged is defined by its environmental specifications and there are three types that are most common. They include:

– IP
– Temperature range
– MIL-STD-810G

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Do You Need a Keyboard?

It all depends on you and the type of work you’ll be having. If you’re doing a job that requires a lot of typing or gathering large volumes of data, then it would be recommendable to have one. The best solution is to acquire a handheld that comes with a physical keyboard.

This is going to help you efficiently collect a lot of information. Now, when it comes to touch screens, you have two types of touch screens at your disposal, capacitive and resistive. The first one senses conductivity to register input, while the second one relies on pressure.

What About an Operating System?

It is of great relevance to purchase the one that supports any type of operating system. It doesn’t matter whether you like CentOS, Ubuntu, or Windows 10, this fact should not be overlooked. Luckily, the market offers rugged computers with any of these systems, just make sure to first consult with the manufacturer.

Engineers are continuously working on enhancing these devices by changing their design and style. Screens are becoming bigger and brighter, which leads us to conclude that these computers are starting to resemble smartphones. Based on all these listed facts, it’s easy to conclude that these gadgets were built to hold up in many potentially hazardous environments in terms of resistance, shock, cold, hot, etc.