Digital technologies have revolutionized the business landscape. Professionals across various industries can now communicate and measure business results from multiple locations in real-time.
However, tech demands vary across different business areas. In industries such as construction or the military, the use of off-the-rack computers is not feasible. Such workplaces require durable, reliable, and high-performance devices that can withstand the most severe conditions.
In other words, they need rugged computing systems.
So, what are rugged computers? How can they benefit your business? Let’s find out!
What Are Rugged Computers?
Rugged or ruggedized computers are specialized portable devices. Their high-end specifications enable businesses to complete the most demanding tasks. As such, they are synonymous with enhanced durability, longevity, and reliability.
Unlike regular desktop computers, rugged computing systems can withstand extreme working environments, including high temperatures, constant vibration, or water exposure.
The Types of Rugged Computing Systems
There are two major categories of ruggedized computing systems.
Semi-Rugged Computers
Semi-rugged devices can endure extreme working conditions mentioned above.
Those are usually improved versions of off-the-shelf PCs or tablets. They have several components that have undergone stress testing and meet strict safety standards.
For example, semi-rugged devices may be regular laptops with spill-proof keyboards or rubber-mounted hard drives.
Fully Rugged Computers
Fully rugged computers are the most durable devices in the world. From the inside out, their design is customizable and conforms to the most rigorous quality standards.
For example, if you expose them to high temperatures or leave them in the rain for hours, they will still work spotlessly.
Additional resource: Uses of computer
Which Industries Use Rugged Computers the Most?
Since they are almost impossible to destroy, rugged computers have various military and industrial applications. They are suitable for companies requiring reliable computing systems that enable uninterrupted 24/7 operation.
Here are a few common uses of rugged computing:
- Aircraft maintenance
- Military and defense
- Smart surveillance
- Factory automation and smart factory systems
- Smart agriculture
- Object recognition
- Oil and gas production
- Chemical manufacturing
- Transportation (in-vehicle networking or autonomous cars)
- Food and drink production
- Mining and drilling
The Business Benefits of Rugged Computing Systems
At first glance, rugged computing systems are similar to traditional PCs. They consist of hardware components, such as a motherboard, a central processing unit, storage units, memory units, and a GPU. However, their technical design and hardware materials vary.
So, how can they benefit your business?
Added Flexibility
Store-bought computers meet the needs of an average consumer. On the other hand, rugged computers and tablets are designed with business in mind. They offer a wide range of practical features that make the devices more comfortable to use.
For example, they are perfect for job sites since they adapt to the current working conditions. They have an anti-reflective coating that blocks glare and provides better visibility. When not struggling with poor sunlight readability, field workers can better focus on their jobs.
In some industries, such as warehousing or manufacturing, wearing protective equipment is obligatory. Rugged tablets make it possible for your staff members to use tablets even with their gloves on.
Increased Durability
Like their mere name says, desktop computers are ideal for indoor environments.
On the other hand, rugged computers are ideal for job sites and military purposes. They can withstand harsh conditions, including:
- Shock and vibration resistance
Continuous vibration can be harmful to off-the-shelf computers and tablets. That is where the rugged computer design helps. Every configuration element, from one-piece chasses to industrial-grade materials, is vibration-resistant. Also, ruggedized devices use solid-storage drives (SSDs) instead of traditional hard drives to eliminate disk spinning.
- Ingress protection
Traditional computers and tablets are not water- and dust-proof. As such, they are unsuitable for industrial and military computing uses. On the other hand, rugged computer systems offer ingress protection. Debris, dust, and water intrusion cannot damage them.
For example, fully waterproof devices use M12 I/O connectors that provide durability during water and dust exposure.
- Power protection
Rugged computers boast over-voltage and over-current protection. They safeguard the device from power oscillations in unstable working settings.
- Heat protection
Rugged devices can withstand extreme weather conditions. You can use them in outdoor settings ranging from -40°C to 85°C. On the other hand, the processor in a regular PC should not be colder than 20°C or hotter than 75°C
Enhanced Performance
Apart from withstanding the most dangerous working conditions, rugged computers also have better processing power. Therefore, if your business uses demanding and industry-specific programs, choosing a ruggedized computer may be a wise move.
By improving the performance of your computing system, you will reduce the risk of downtime. That way, you optimize your workflow, boost customer satisfaction, and improve your profits.
Additional resource: RAM, What You Need to Know
Over to You
If you believe that rugged computers are an unnecessary investment for your business, it is time to rethink your approach. They can improve your workflow on multiple levels. Most importantly, ruggedized devices are built to last. Their durability and enhanced performance will maximize employee performance and reduce your expenses in the long run.
Is your business in the industry that requires the use of rugged computers? We are looking forward to hearing your thoughts on them!