There are practically infinite numbers of situations where computer communication is vital but where common computer equipment will be woefully inadequate or fail altogether. These situations may be in governmental, civil, or emergency contexts and call for rugged portable computer systems that can take huge amounts of physical stress yet still perform at peak efficiency. Here are some essential features to look for when choosing such a system, the applications for which they are appropriate, and situations when nothing but a rugged system will do.
Emergencies
In times of emergency, equipment failure is simply not an option. Computer units need to be both vehicle-mounted and ground portable in order to get the job done in a variety of contexts. A good supplier of rugged systems will carry computer systems that already come with interactive mapping systems, GPS, and other software that will automatically report locations of incidents so that responders can arrive as soon as possible.
Vehicle-mounted computer systems are convenient and easily-accessed tools that can be used in airplanes and helicopters as well as in cars and on boats and still work great no matter the temperature or weather conditions.
Government and Law Enforcement
Law enforcement officers face difficult situations on a daily basis that require computer equipment that can “take it.” Bicycle police, mounted police, and SWAT teams all need hand-held systems that are strong and can withstand the abuses inflicted upon them by their owners. Kneeboard tablet PCs are a great choice for these occupations, and there are even hand held speech to speech translating systems on the market that are useful when language barriers are a problem.
Rugged systems are essential in military contexts where they are essential to maintaining communications between troops in war zones and in other areas as well. Products may also include situational awareness equipment and command and control systems that help soldiers stay in control and carry out their missions.
Civilian Applications
There are many civilian organizations who take on humanitarian causes under the most extreme physical circumstances. While a common laptop would wilt under such conditions, a rugged system will be able to take the abuses heaped upon it and keep running at peak efficiency. Many rugged systems come sealed so that they can be used underwater, in hot deserts, and even in subzero arctic situations, making them ideal tools for scientists and explorers.
Computer systems are not just for the home or office anymore: they have become indispensable machines in just about every walk of life and situation imaginable. Rugged systems are designed to provide reliable computer services under the most extreme circumstances.