Rugged computers such as Getac laptops, Panasonic TOUGHBOOKS, Dell Latitudes and the like were not designed to sit on a desk in a safe and easy environment. The rugged computing industry has been developed around the need to bring expanding technology into increasingly challenging environments. While possibly not the most testing of rugged environments, one of the most often required locations for technology is in vehicles. The industries that require technology in vehicles are as prevalent as they are varied, from public safety and response to field services, the increasing demand for and use of technology has become ever more pressing.
Vehicles As a Rugged Environment
While at first pass a vehicle might not appear to be a challenging environment for a computer, the need for a ruggedized laptop or tablet is apparent as soon as the challenges are listed. Heat and cold are especially tough on fine computer components such as LCD panels and circuitry. Over heating can cause failed circuits or corrupted data while freezing temperatures can cause compromised or damaged boards and solders, and a boot up with a cold drive can even cause internal condensation. The temperature of a parked vehicle could exceed well over 130 degrees on even a mild Summer day. The second large contributor to technology failure in a vehicle is shocks and vibration. With high speeds accentuating small or large bumps or constant or even semi-frequent small vibrations consumer grade computers experience a large failure rate. A motor vehicle experiences all three of those conditions under normal expected use. While lighting is not typically considered when purchasing a laptop, when installing a computer into a vehicle lighting becomes a much greater factor. Low light conditions require both adjustable backlit keyboards for ease of use as well as a driver's ability to quickly turn off all cabin light sources for safety. High brightness is an equal challenge as most LCD displays appear washed out or even lose visibility completely in bright light such as sunlight. Dust in a cabin of a vehicle, particularly a service vehicle deployed in the field, can be a major contributor to computer failure and moisture such as spills can be a commonly encountered hazard to computers.
Rugged Computers for Rugged Environments
With the advent of the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, Panasonic initiated a foray into challenging environments such as placing computers in vehicles and in the field. Manufacturers such as Getac and Dell followed Panasonic's lead and now both have competitive lines of rugged computers and tablets that approach each challenge presented by in-vehicle computer placement and use. Design features such as storage drive heaters as well as shock pads and vibration dampeners like in the Panasonic FZ-40, have become mainstream in the the rugged computer industry. More durable circuitry welding and sealed port design as found on the TOUGHBOOK G2, have helped limit failure from vibrations, shocks and moisture or dust ingress. Intensely bright screen displays, such as the Getac B360 1400 nit display, have allowed rugged tablets and laptops to be operated in full sunlight, while dimmable backlit keyboards and emergency computer and light off switches, such as on the Panasonic FZ-55 TOUGHBOOK, have been implemented particularly for first responder safety. Advanced cooling systems keep ruggedized computers able to withstand being left in an intensely hot vehicle and still function smoothly.
Rugged Computers Need Rugged Mounts
One common drawback to rugged durability is the increase in weight. Making a computer with extra components and a mind towards longevity and toughness may increase its ruggedness but by the nature of it will also make it dramatically heavier than its lighter consumer grade equivalent. One crucial factor to keep in mind with any object brought into a motor vehicle is driver and passenger safety. The constant risk of vehicle accident can turn any lose object - particularly a heavy rugged Panasonic TOUGHBOOK or Getac tablet - into a dangerous projectile. Mounting a rugged computer in a vehicle has been perfected into a science by major brand manufacturers such as Gamber Johnson or Havis. Both Gamber and Havis excel in producing high quality and heavy gauge mounting equipment to ensure that a rugged computer or tablet - as well as other peripherals in a mobile workstation such as printers or networking equipment - can be safely installed in a vehicle without adding undue risks to driver or passenger. Often crafted out of fully welded steel and installing to vehicle OEM mounting points, Gamber Johnson and Havis computer mounts are specifically designed to handle the weight of rugged computer equipment in case of a high speed accident.
Rugged or Die is pleased to offer both rugged computers and tablets as well as the equipment needed to build custom from-the-ground-up vehicle mounting solutions utilizing Gamber Johnson or Havis brand catalogs. Our in-vehicle computer experts can help provide a detailed discussion about crafting a custom and mobile computer work station for any in-field or mobile job code. Call a Rugged or Die sales rep today at 816-388-0035 and check back for future blogs detailing the intricacies of vehicle mounting and docking.
