Important Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rugged Tablet PC

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by iTech Company

With the features and capabilities of a desktop PC, rugged tablet PC systems are becoming an essential tool for many industries these days. These devices are made with a hard outer casing, allowing them to take a beating while still performing at their maximum capacity. With its portability, these ruggedized tablet computers are much more convenient to use over the traditional laptops or PCs. That’s why it is being used in many applications such as in a supply chain, medical, field service or any industrial environment.

However, there are several important factors to consider when choosing a rugged tablet PC. By considering these factors, it will narrow down your choices into something that is most applicable to you. Check out the following:

Functionality

Find out if a particular tablet PC has the functional features you need in order to carry out the tasks you intend to use it for. Some of the things that you should look at first are its processor, memory and storage capacity as these will determine if it has enough power to allow the applications to run at acceptable speeds. Other features include a barcode scanner or Rfid scanner, a camera, card reader, integrated GPS, and integral microphone and speakers. It is also important to determine beforehand how long will the battery last and how easily can it be swapped.

Durability

As rugged PCs are commonly intended for industrial applications, its durability should not be overlooked as it will determine its resistant to various elements while maintaining its full functionality. You may want to ask if it may endure the environment you are planning to use it for. Industrial settings are commonly exposed to extreme temperatures and different debris such as dust, splash of water, moisture, and even chemicals. Also consider its shock and vibration resistance. Find out if there are screen protectors available in order to prevent such damage.

Level of brightness

As most industrial applications are exposed outdoors, there’s also a big possibility that you will be dealing with high ambient light. The problem with this if you are using an ordinary tablet is that you won’t see much of the detail on the screen without bending the gadget to get as meager daylight impedance as it could. Rugged tablet PCs have a way to get around such issue. When looking at gadgets or monitor screens, there’s what they call a NIT which is like a measure of brightness. The higher the nit, the brighter it is. A standard tablet and desktop screen has around 200-250 NITs while a standard rugged tablet for use in mechanical settings has a 350 NIT.

Physical ergonomics

While the performance of the device is important, the comfort of the user when utilizing it must also be considered. Thus, try to look at if it puts any strain on the user. These might include a number of characteristics such as the weight of the device, accessories like a strap, size of the screen, sunlight readability feature, its resistance to dust and water, operating temperature, keyboard and touch screen options, and mountability, among others.

Operating system and software

Of course, its operating system is also very important. Take note that a Microsoft-based portable operating system ensures that you will have a consistent interface with other software and administration systems. Those that support terminal copying and program based applications are also a good option. Meanwhile, try to avoid those that have restrictive systems that are not compatible with different applications and also those that require the seller to create drivers or roll out software improvements.

Connectivity

With the advent of the internet, the connectivity options of a table PC is almost necessary in many applications in order to interact with other devices. WiFi is one of the most essential connectivity options to allow mobile access to networks and the Internet. Also check out if it has 3G or 4G connectivity to enable Internet access from anywhere. Other options include Bluetooth to enable communication with other devices, USB, and RJ45 LAN port to be used when WiFi isn't available.

These factors may serve as your guide in choosing a rugged portable PC that will work best for your application. However, opting for a reliable supplier is also important to end up with a product that has high quality and will last for longer usage without compromising its performance. One of the leading innovators in this industry is iTech Company which is already in this business for several years. See its range of rugged tablet PCs and see which one works best for you. For more info, contact them anytime.