Tablets have established themselves as tools for outdoor use. But can they really be used in harsh situations such as in forests or fields?
Standard consumer tablets certainly have their limits in terms of temperature, weather conditions and weight. In this blog post, we take a closer look at working in forestry operations and offer helpful solutions for everyday work.
Consumer Tablets vs. Rugged Technology
You can have good experiences with commercially available tablets: Various Android tablets, iOS and Windows products designed for private use can be used to a limited extent in areas where mild weather prevails. But what about in more northern climes, for example, where you have to cope with heavy rain, wet snow and temperatures around freezing point? Not exactly the ideal conditions for a consumer tablet, but can you perhaps come to terms with the weak points?
The challenge and arranging with circumstances
“Arranging” with the conditions of a consumer tablet means that you sometimes have to put it under your jacket to keep it warm enough to use it. This can be the case at just a few degrees below freezing – especially if it’s windy. High temperatures can also quickly pose a problem, as the tablet can switch itself off if it gets too hot. This often happens when the temperature reaches around 30 to 35 °C.
Another challenge is the battery life – especially in cold and frosty weather! It is often difficult to use the battery for a whole day of outdoor use. It also makes it difficult to operate the display at full brightness in strong sunlight to remain productive. Dust and mud can also cause this type of tablet to malfunction during prolonged use.
In the field, as in our example in the forest or in the field, you will quickly reach your limits with precise recording/evaluation of GPS data, as you will then realize that you need professional GPS tracking with greater tracking accuracy and you will no longer be able to correctly trace where you were a week ago, for example.
Rugged products for special challenges and better productivity
The robustness of a so-called “rugged” product makes it a really great tool for rough outdoor use!
The Rocktab U210 G2 is an extremely robust tablet that has been specially developed for use in the toughest conditions. Despite its robustness, at 996 grams and a depth of 15 mm, it is surprisingly light and compact.
- Robust and bright display: The scratch-resistant 10.1-inch display is extremely bright at 800 cd/m2 and can be read in sunlight. The touchscreen is extremely precise and can even be operated with gloves or in the rain.
- Military standard: The tablet complies with military standard MIL-STD-810G and can withstand drops from a height of 1.5 meters.
- Weatherproof: The IP65-certified housing protects the tablet from dust and water. It also works in extreme ambient temperatures from -20°C to +60°C and remains 100% operational.
- Versatile application options: Thanks to its robustness and functionality, the Rocktab U210 G2 is suitable for a wide range of applications, for example in field service, industry, forestry or construction.
- Compact design: Despite its robustness, the tablet is very compact and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for on the go.
- High-end uBlox NEO-M8N GPS for positioning: With horizontal positioning with an accuracy of approx. 0 – 2.50 m.
Even better mobility and comfort
Ruxton Pack is an innovative solution for professionals who work in the field and often use tablets. It is a comfortable and safe alternative to a conventional backpack. The chest holder ensures a comfortable fit and allows quick access to the tablet. The tablet can be used in both portrait and landscape format and is securely stored in a specially designed pocket.
Ruxton Pack offers great flexibility and is tailored to individual requirements. It is available in several colors and sizes and can be fitted with additional pockets and holsters. When working near roads, visibility is increased by the orange version with reflectors.
Another plus is the high wearing comfort, which is ensured by padding and good air circulation. Ruxton can even be worn under a normal backpack, making it a versatile companion.
Conclusion
Tablets have become indispensable tools in forestry and field work. They facilitate documentation, navigation and access to important information in the field. However, commercially available consumer tablets quickly reach their limits in the harsh conditions of the forest and the field. Fluctuating temperatures, humidity, shocks and dust all take their toll on the sensitive devices.
Rugged devices such as the Rocktab U210 G2 are specially designed for use in extreme conditions. It has a robust housing that is protected against shocks, water and dust. A high-quality display remains clearly legible even in direct sunlight and the battery lasts a long time even with intensive use.
In combination with the practical Ruxton Pack, a mobile and ergonomic work solution for foresters is created. The Ruxton Pack offers a safe and comfortable way to carry the tablet on the body and allows quick access to all important functions.
If you are thinking about purchasing rugged computers and/or tablets etc. for your forestry operation or other field service tasks, we can help you find the right tools. Get in touch with us for a free expert consultation: https://www.werocktools.com/contact/
We will be happy to help you.
