If you work in a physically demanding environment, you know that standard electronic devices are not always up to the task. Dust, water, extreme temperatures, and shocks can damage or even destroy the hardware. That's where rugged devices come into play. In this article, we'll explain what rugged devices are, where they are used, and why your business may need them.

What are Rugged Devices?

Rugged devices are electronic devices designed to withstand harsh environments. They are built with durable materials and components that can resist drops, vibrations, extreme temperatures, dust, and water. They are not just regular smartphones or tablets in a protective case; they are specifically designed and tested to meet rigorous industry standards for durability.

There are several types of rugged devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, handheld computers, and wearables. As you can see, they come in various sizes and shapes, and they can run on different operating systems, including Android and Windows.

They have several features that make them suitable for harsh environments. These features may include reinforced frames, shock-absorbing materials, sealed ports, waterproof and dustproof enclosures, and extended battery life.

It's important to note that rugged devices are not only about software and mobile device management (MDM), but about the hardware itself. Even the most advanced software cannot make a standard device rugged enough to survive in harsh environments.

Where are Rugged Devices Used?

Rugged devices are used in a variety of industries, including construction, warehousing, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and public safety. Any industry where digital assets are exposed to physical damage can benefit from them.

For example, in construction, workers often use rugged smartphones or tablets to access blueprints, schedules, and safety information on the job site. Rugged devices are also essential in warehouses, where workers use handheld computers to scan barcodes and track inventory. In manufacturing, rugged tablets can be used to monitor production lines and gather data in real-time. Rugged devices are also crucial in public safety, where first responders need reliable communication and access to critical information in any environment.

In the mining industry, rugged devices are used to monitor and control machinery, as well as to track employees' location and health. In the transportation industry, rugged devices can be used to manage logistics and track shipments. In the oil and gas industry, rugged tablets can be used to monitor drilling operations and gather data from sensors in remote locations.

Does Your Business Need Rugged Devices?

If your business operates in a harsh environment, you may need rugged devices to ensure the reliability and safety of your digital assets. They  can provide several benefits to your business, including:

Durability:

Rugged devices can withstand drops, vibrations, extreme temperatures, dust, and water, ensuring that your digital assets are protected in harsh environments.

Reliability:

Devices for the industry are designed to operate without interruption, ensuring that your business can operate efficiently and minimize downtime.

Productivity:

Rugged devices can help your employees work faster and more efficiently, as they can access critical information and communicate with colleagues in real-time.

Safety:

Rugged devices can help your employees stay safe on the job site, as they can access safety information, report incidents, and communicate with emergency services if needed.

Conclusion

Rugged devices are the tough solution for businesses that operate in harsh environments. They provide durability, reliability, productivity, and safety, which can benefit industries such as construction, warehousing, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and public safety. If you're considering them for your business, make sure to look for devices that meet industry standards for durability and have the features that match your needs.