Is Your Computer Rugged Enough? What is a Rugged PC?

The dictionary defines the word "rugged" as "robust" and "hardy," or "strongly built and constituted." The latter is what we generally mean when we refer to a computer as "rugged." However, there are no simple, universally accepted definitions as to what makes a "rugged PC" rather than just a computer that's well built or durable. So let's take a look at ruggedness as it applies to computers. How rugged does a device have to be? What are the trade-offs in terms of cost and weight?

Although there are a variety of testing methods and ratings, there is no single entity that manages, monitors, and enforces a set of ruggedness standards for mobile computers. As a result, the term "rugged" is relative. Just because a manufacturer describes a device as "rugged" doesn't necessarily mean that it fills your particular needs. Any "rugged" device has likely been reinforced to some extent and will offer some extra protection, but in order to find out you need to take a good look at it, know what the listed ruggedness specifications mean, and probably ask a number of questions.

In fairness to manufacturers, the lack of a clear definition of the term "rugged" is probably as frustrating to them as it is to customers. It makes, for example, no sense to go all out and design a device that is nearly indestructible when all that is needed is protection from a bit of occasional rain or some bumps in the road. In the same respect, if a device must survive under the harshest environmental conditions, then it better be up to the task.

With that in mind, let's consider what ruggedness really means, and what different categories of ruggedness there are. The basic purpose of computer ruggedization is protection from external abuse and penetration. The computer needs to be able to not only physically survive punishment, but continue to function as well. Quite obviously, "abuse" is relative. Let's look at some examples. A Sony Playstation, for example, must be able to take plenty of abuse from kids without losing its ability to read a CD-ROM disk, but no one would call a Playstation "rugged." A notebook computer that does duty in a police cruiser must be able to withstand some vibration and a few bumps, handle the temperature extremes encountered in a vehicle, and generally absorb some rough handling day after day. That requires a certain degree of ruggedization, but they are minor compared to what would be required for a device that will be strapped down inside a tank. Similarly, a handheld data collection terminal used to read meter data at customer locations must be engineered to be water resistant (though not necessarily water-proof) and handle an occasional drop. One used by the U.S. Marines, on the other hand, must be totally waterproof and able to withstand just about any torture imaginable.

Considering the above, it is easy to come to some conclusions. First, when it comes to a rugged PC, one size does not fit all. You need to figure out what the device needs to be protected against and then seek one that provides that protection. Second, a rugged PC means extra cost and extra weight. It makes no sense to go for maximum protection with the corresponding high cost when a less extreme design will do.

Conrad Blickenstorfer, Ph.D. is the editor-in-chief of Rugged PC Review and Pen Computing Magazine. He is also Publications Director of Digital Camera Magazine. For more information about Rugged PCs, please visit RuggedPCReview.com. All rights reserved. Copyright 2006.

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