Rugged Computer Remote Connectivity
One of the many benefits of a rugged laptop or rugged tablet is the ability to operate in a remote or challenging environment. With durability, cold and heat resistance and liquid and dust protection, a rugged computer is built to operate outside of an office or building. With remote work being the main objective of a rugged computer, it stands to reason that one of the most sought after optional features is wireless connectivity. While typically optional and not standard, the ability to connect to internet signals besides a provided WiFi or hard line ethernet connection are popular hardware upgrades for a rugged user. 4G LTE cellular connectivity provides users access to the internet wherever there is cellular signal. Remote internet connection enables rugged computer users to not only exist in challenging environments but utilize their rugged technology as a true remote workspace. While known as a dependable and stable workhorse of cellular connection, 4G LTE is slowly being replaced with 5G as the standard in the rugged computer industry.
4G LTE vs 5G Connection
At the time of this blog being written, both Panasonic TOUGHBOOK computers and Getac rugged laptops and tablets are starting to provide 5G as an optional feature in many models and configurations. With the Sierra Wireless EM9190 5G module being the preferred system in most rugged computers today, users are able to start taking advantage of the growing 5G infrastructure. When accessible, 5G signal can almost triple standard 4G LTE speeds. While a high-end 4G LTE module peaks at around 2Gbps download speeds, a rugged computer with a 5G module accesses mmWave (millimeter wave) high-frequency spectrum to reach speeds of upwards of 5.5 to 7.5 Gbps. While speed is dominated by 5G, the latency or delay in signal communication is also vastly improved. 4G LTE has a typical latency measurement of 30-70ms while 5G modules are designed to minimize that delay down to 1ms (in ideal conditions.) With reduced interference, the ability to "drop" to 4G LTE whenever 5G is inaccessible and a massive increase in speed and quality, 5G is quickly replacing 4G LTE as the preferred standard by all users.
5G and Rugged Computers
As 5G connectivity emerges as the preferred standard for cellular internet connection, the leading manufacturers such as Panasonic and Getac have both worked to include it as an optional hardware feature in an increasing collection of rugged laptops and rugged tablets. At the time of this writing all current TOUGHBOOK models including the CF-33, the FZ-G2, the FZ-40 and the FZ-55 have 5G configured options. While not all Getac computers can be configured with 5G, the most popular form factors including the B360, S410, V110, V120 laptops and the F110, UX10 and ZX10 rugged tablets. While no rugged computers or rugged tablets include 5G by default, these listed models can be configured to include 5G at the time of manufacturing.
If you have questions about 5G or are interested in a quote for a 5G enabled rugged laptop or rugged tablet, contact the Rugged or Die sales team today!
