How do you to choose the right rugged computer?

Compared to the purchase of office or enterprise computers, the selection of rugged computing equipment for mobile workforces in harsh industrial environments includes numerous considerations other than just product specifications and initial purchase price. Each field operation is different and has different requirements. Different types of technologies may or may not work with each other. Getting it right will boost productivity and motivate the workforce. Getting it wrong has costly implications.

“Getting the exact right computers and systems for the mobile workforce, on foot or in vehicles, is a complex ballgame,” said Per Holmberg, CEO of JLT Mobile Computers Group. “They may need something that’s small and handy, or something mounted in a truck or on a forklift. It may rain, temperatures may be extreme, sunlight may be a factor, how long the battery lasts, or how well wireless works.

“You can’t just buy rugged gear on product spec; there’s much more to it than just the computer. The workforce must be comfortable with it, everything must work together, everything must be matched to the operation. At JLT we’ve been in this business for decades. We know how it works and we know what matters. And in this guide, we’re sharing what we’ve learned about getting the right tools for the job with our customers.” 

Entitled ‘How to choose and buy the right rugged computers for your business’, the second free guide in the JLT series discusses everything that matters in filling the computing needs of mobile workforces with the exact right systems and equipment. That includes balancing wish lists with technological and operational realities. Determining the right type of form factors and technologies. Facilitating testing and buy-in from the workforce. Protecting your investment and assessing total cost of ownership.

The guide walks you through the important points and issues one by one. How to decide on the right types of mobile computing equipment as well as the pros and cons of each type. How to match equipment to your work environment so you only pay for the ruggedness you actually need. Learn about crucial key elements such as display and touch technologies. Assess the proper size and weight, making sure equipment feels ‘right’ on the job.

Analyse power needs; unlike desktops that simply plug in, powering mobile computers means balancing factors such as weight, cost, size, lifecycles, and technologies. Decide on the right mobile connectivity, as it is much more complex than in an office or enterprise. Determine actual processing performance needs; don’t get too little or too much. And, finally, learn the importance of accessories and peripherals as part of a successful mobile system.