Like anything else you buy, if the price seems too good to be true, there’s an excellent chance that your instinct is right. You always get what you pay for.

True rugged computers are engineered for quality and performance first. Not only do they meet the industry benchmarks, they are the ones setting new standards. That is why you can trust these fast, powerful, and high- quality devices to do what you need them to do. (Examples: work with your software, connect in remote areas, IoT, sensors, etc)

So how to spot a knock off device?

1 )How many rugged specs are disclosed?

IP rating may provide information against dust and ware but dust and water are not the only hazards threatening the tablet’s reliability, data security, or even worker safety. A truly rugged device will be MIL-STD-810G tested for drops, vibration, shock, extreme temperature tolerance at a minimum. The best rugged manufacturers will test device behavior when exposed to high humidity levels, salt fog, fluid containment, and frequent altitude variations.

2) How specific does the manufacturer set their specific specs, and how are these capabilities certified?

It’s not enough to say that a tablet can handle extreme temperatures or it’s safe to use in Hazardous locations. Are there any certifications to certify HazLoc safety with a third-party and detail the exact operating range for every other rugged spec that applies to their device’s claimed rating?

3) What level of engineering has gone into achieving a rugged rating?

How are these devices tested? As a consumer, you may want to understand the exact technology used to make them these way. True rugged device manufacturers, supply you the information so you know how rugged your mobile device actually is. Other relating engineering questions to ask are, is the tablet still waterproof when the I/O ports are open? How are internal antennas designed, will the tablet stay connected in dodgy reception areas? At what temperature can the processor withstand to protect it before it gets too hot?

4) How long is the device expected to last?

This isn’t about the length of the warranty of the device but about the time that you can use your entire installed mobility solution and workflow. Your rugged computer should last a minimum of 3-5 years on average.

5) What is the sticker price and total cost of ownership?

True rugged tablets are designed to survive and thrive for many years. It requires lots of engineering, materials, and manufacturing process. As a result, some of the costs are front loaded. A well-made rugged tablet will dependably do the job you need it to do. The return would be it will reduce and oftentimes prevent organizational costs incurred by other less expensive device options.

As industry experts, we believe that it is hard to make a fair assumption about the device actual value based on the upfront cost. A rugged device superiority over another can only be determined once you understand the ancillary costs that will be required to implement the right workflow software for the device, deploy comparability accessories, and ultimately secure and maintain the entire mobility IT solution for the future. Check out our selection of rugged tablets and rugged laptops selection that have passed all the tests. Feel free to contact Barcodes if you have any questions, don’t sacrifice performance to save money that will help you secure approval on your next project.