Tough conditions? Rugged computers will take you there.
Builders, architects, engineers and all those working outside know that conditions on site aren’t great for gadgets. But even if you’re working at the top of a scaffolding tower in the rain, having access to the documentation and tools needed for your project can make a big difference to decision making and make project management faster and more efficient. Until recently, laptops and gadgets were unusual sights in construction but now, using technology developed for the armed forces, rugged laptops designed specifically for tough conditions are increasingly accessible to everyone working outside or on the road.
Most rugged computers can be purchased with features such as aluminium and magnesium housing, which is 20 times stronger than plastic. Their shock-mounted hard drives and keyboards offer resistance to dangers ranging from dirt, dust, spills, knocks, and shocks. Rugged machines are also designed to withstand severe conditions and keep going even under stress from heat, humidity, altitude and for some waterproof models, depth. Not surprisingly they won’t pack up if you drop them from height or accidentally spill oil, water or even your morning coffee on one.
The rapid development of solar technology has also benefited gadget addicts. Now, regardless of where you are, you can keep your machine running using solar cells that will generate sufficient power even in low light conditions. Companies such as CT Solar and Voltaic Systems supply solar powered chargers for computer systems. These items range from handheld solar chargers that cost a couple of hundred pounds to more expensive and complete laptop solar systems that will suit those who are in extremely remote areas – or keen yachtsmen or walkers. Ruggedsystems supply a wide range of power solutions for mobile computing needs.
Rugged laptops, notebooks and tablet devices are all now available to the UK market and designed to withstand shocks, vibrations and liquid damage. Mildef and RM Systems all supply a wide range of rugged computers to the UK market, supplying all manner of consultants and professionals. The technology was developed by the military, but has been widely adopted and applied in all kinds of industry from mining and oil extraction, to sales forces and public relations companies. Rugged laptops aren’t cheap, but prices have fallen over recent years making them a serious option for those working in environments traditionally no-go zones for computers.
Strong competition in this niche end of the computing industry have ensured new rugged machines are comparable to the latest consumer models and offer similar memory and processor speed and technology. You can now purchase tough machines that support high-tech features such as Intel Pentium III microprocessors that rocket at speeds exceeding 900 MHz. Some also include up to 512MB of RAM, a high capacity hard disk and a CD/DVD drive.
Prices at the top end may make you fall of your chair, but consumer companies like Panasonic have also entered this specialist market, producing a range called ‘toughbooks’ that compete well on price. Take a look at the Panasonic Toughbook CF U1, a compact sized, extremely durable handheld computer with 1GB of memory.