Home Application scenarios Consumer tablets vs. rugged technology: how to meet the challenge of field service professionals

Consumer tablets vs. rugged technology: how to meet the challenge of field service professionals

DIY or professional? We show why commercially available tablets often fail in tough applications and why rugged devices are the better choice. From DIY hacks to professional solutions – we explain.

DIY hacks vs. professional solution

Of course, there are many hacks for using consumer tablets outdoors in demanding environments. 

We show you some of them as follows:

  • The Ziploc® pouch hack: Used to make the tablet “waterproof”. This hack actually works surprisingly well, but it can be a challenge to see the display through the bag. 
  • The hand warmer hack: With the hand warmer, the tablet should also work in sub-zero temperatures. 
  • The hat hack: Use hats with wide brims that provide shade so that the display remains legible even in sunlight
  • Use of external power supply units: External power supply units are used to keep the tablet working throughout the working day. 
  • The jacket hack: Wearing the tablet under a jacket so that it also works in cold weather.

One thing is crystal clear: consumer tablets are designed for private use and can hardly withstand harsh environments. 

The cost factor is usually the main reason why companies decide to use commercially available tablets. However, if the product is then more “mission critical”, productivity will suffer if it does not fully meet the employee’s requirements. These costs are often not considered when working in challenging environments with a commercial tablet.

Many of our customers have experienced for themselves what happens to productivity when a commercially available tablet fails due to heat, cold and low battery and cannot be used reliably to control a UAV (drone) in summer, for example. If you can’t find shade then, the tablet overheats at temperatures of around 30 °C. It’s more than a little annoying when a tablet then fails and the drone is several hundred meters away!

The reliable and strong companions

In demanding outdoor applications, the reliability of mobile devices is of crucial importance. While consumer devices are often designed for convenience and ease of use, professional devices need to be robust and resistant to extreme conditions. Factors such as shock resistance, waterproofing and long battery life are essential to ensure smooth operation even in the most challenging conditions. Compromises in these areas can lead to costly breakdowns and significant disruption to workflows.

Advantages of using rugged products in harsh environments

Rugged products, also known as rugged or industrial-grade devices, are designed to be used in harsh environments. The advantages of rugged devices are essential for professional applications, unlike consumer products which are mainly optimized for private use.

  • Ruggedness and durability: Rugged products are resistant to shocks, vibrations, extreme temperatures, dust and moisture. They are designed to function reliably even under demanding conditions.
  • Higher performance: Rugged products often have more powerful components and are designed for continuous operation. This enables them to work reliably even in demanding applications such as real-time data transmission or machine control.
  • Additional functions: Rugged products often offer additional functions that are important for professional use, such as extended connectivity options, special software solutions or integrated sensors.
  • Certifications: Rugged products are often certified according to strict industry standards such as IP (Ingress Protection) or the military standard MIL-STD-810G to prove their robustness and reliability.
  • Ease of maintenance: Rugged products usually have a modular design, which makes maintenance and repair easier. Spare parts are often available more quickly.

We have specialized in precisely this area

WEROCK products are developed precisely for this robustness and use in adverse situations and work absolutely reliably. Our Rocktab series offers all the industry standard certifications mentioned, such as IP65 (dust and waterproof), the military standard MIL-STD-810G, long battery life, bright displays that are readable even in extreme sunlight, can withstand drops of 1.50 meters, offer hot-swappable batteries and impress with their compact and lightweight design. There is also a wide range of optional equipment such as a barcode reader, extended batteries and much more.

Flexible with Ruxton Pack in combination with professional tools

With our Rocktab tablets and the Ruxton Pack, we offer a complete solution for professional field service. Ruxton Pack is the perfect solution. Thanks to the unique chest mount, you have your hands free and can concentrate on your tasks. The robust construction and multiple pockets provide ample space for your tablet and other accessories. Whether you work in industry, construction or other demanding and tough environments, Ruxton Pack is your reliable companion.

The Ruxton Pack is available in 3 sizes, optionally in signal colors and is also compatible with most consumer tablets. In combination with our Rocktab series, you have a solution that will make the toughest jobs comfortable and safe. If you are interested in a Ruxton Pack for your consumer tablet, you can find the dimensions on our website under the following link: https://www.werocktools.com/?s=Ruxton+Pack

Conclusion

DIY solutions may seem attractive in the short term, but robust devices are a far better investment in the long term. At WEROCK, we offer you the robust and modern solutions you need. Our Rocktab tablets and the matching Ruxton Pack are specially designed for use in the toughest conditions. Let us work together to find the optimum solution for your specific applications. Our experts will be happy to advise you and find the right WEROCK product for you. 

Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation: https://www.werocktools.com/contact

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