Handheld / Portable Ruggedized Computers
Description
Handheld and portable ruggedized computers are compact, lightweight devices designed to be operated while held in hand or placed on a desk or tabletop. These computers integrate essential components such as a processor, memory, input/output (I/O) ports, and expansion slots. They are equipped with an operating system, user interface, and battery power, making them versatile tools for various computing tasks. These devices are engineered to withstand extreme environmental conditions, ensuring reliable performance in challenging settings.
Working Principle
Handheld and portable ruggedized computers operate by integrating robust hardware and software components that are specifically designed to endure harsh environments. The rugged design includes hardened exteriors, shock-absorbing mounts, waterproof seals, and temperature-resistant components. These features protect the internal electronics from physical impacts, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. The devices often include advanced communication features such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling seamless data transfer and connectivity in remote or mobile settings. Their utility lies in their ability to provide reliable computing power and connectivity in environments where traditional computers might fail.
Applications
Handheld and portable ruggedized computers are used in a variety of specific applications. In military operations, they are employed for navigation, communication, and data analysis in extreme conditions such as desert heat or arctic cold. In civilian industries, they are utilized in manufacturing, mining, and energy sectors where they support tasks like equipment monitoring and field data collection. These devices are also valuable in outdoor applications such as agriculture and transportation, where they can withstand exposure to the elements and rough handling.
Advantages over other Ruggedized Computers
Compared to other ruggedized computers, handheld and portable versions offer the advantage of extreme portability and convenience. Their compact size allows them to be easily carried and operated in tight spaces or on the move, which is not always possible with larger rugged laptops or tablets. This makes them particularly useful in field operations where mobility and quick access to data are crucial.
Limitations
Despite their advantages, handheld and portable ruggedized computers have limitations. Their small keyboards and screens can make data entry and viewing less efficient compared to larger devices. Additionally, while they are designed to be durable, their compact size may limit the extent of ruggedization compared to larger, more robust devices. This can affect their performance in extremely harsh conditions.
Considerations
When considering the purchase of handheld and portable ruggedized computers, several factors should be taken into account. Initial costs can be high due to the specialized design and materials used for ruggedization. Operating expenses may include costs for software updates and connectivity services. Durability is a key advantage, but users should ensure the device meets the necessary environmental specifications such as temperature range and impact resistance. Accuracy in data processing and connectivity is crucial, especially in field applications. Replacement and maintenance costs should also be considered, as rugged devices may require specialized parts and services.
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
ABB Smart Device Manager is a device management tool that fully embraces the Field Device Integration (FDI) Common Host Components. It makes the configuration, commissioning, diagnostics and maintenance of fieldbus instruments easier and quicker than ever before. ABB's Smart Device Manager software... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Main Memory: 8.00
from Handheld
Perfectly ergonomic, seriously rugged, and ready for any task, the 7-inch Algiz RT7 offers unmatched field performance at an excellent value. Whether you ’re collecting data, crunching numbers or viewing graphics, the Algiz RT7 ’s powerful Qualcomm quad-core processor provides reliable,... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Qualcomm® MSM8916
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Speed: 1200
from Liquid Controls Group; a Unit of IDEX Corporation
The DMS In-Cab Data Management System is a flexible, industry specific mobile computing platform. The DMS provides users with the ability to connect to up to three LectroCount® registers, control them, capture and store transaction data and combine that information with customer data to print... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Speed: 133
- Computer Type: Minicomputer
- Screen Resolution: 240 x 64
from Allied Reliability Group
The AR-C10 data collector is an Intel ® Celeron ® based rugged tablet PC that runs on Microsoft ’s Windows Embedded 8.1 Industry Pro operating system. Its sole purpose is to streamline data collection via multi-technology integration with a single source of data storage. In addition to... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Display Size: 10.4
from Teguar Corporation
The TRT-Q5380-10 Android Rugged Tablet is built for tough environments in industries like construction, transportation, field services, inventory management, and more. With this powerful Qualcomm chipset, this tablet will allow you to reliably run business essential applications and tasks. The 700... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Qualcomm MSM8953 Octacore Processor
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Speed: 2200
from WINSYSTEMS, INC.
WinSystems ’ SYS-C398DL single board computer combines high performance multimedia graphics with a rich mix of industrial I/O. The Freescale i.MX 6DL processor ’s integrated power management provides excellent efficiency and allows operation from -40 ° to +85 °C without active... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable; Rack
- Speed: 800
- Processor: Industrial Freescale® i.MX 6DL Dual Core
- Main Memory: 2.00
from Secure Communication Systems
The Air Warrior EDM Tablet PC kneeboard computer system is a rugged, lightweight , portable workstation that provides the high performance Windows XP Professional Operating System in a configuration optimized for rugged wearable, kneeboard requirements. The EDM Tablet PC was called into action on... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: VIA Eden Ultra Low Voltage
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Speed: 1000
from Industrial PC, Inc.
In-Vehicle Intel ® Apollo Lake Ultra-Compact Fanless System. Intel ® Atom ™ E3950 Quad Core Processor. Two 802.3at PoE+ ports and one GbE port. 3x Mini PCIe sockets and 1x M.2 socket for expansion. Isolated CAN port for in-vehicle communication. 4-CH isolated DIO. When you ’re... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Main Memory: 8.00
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- General Features: Ruggedized
from Handheld
A smart choice for electronic fare collection and ticket validation, the Nautiz eTicket Pro II merges ultimate mobility with true field functionality. This rugged handheld is a reliable and efficient tool for transactions and validations, designed specifically with transit workers in mind — it... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Texas Instruments AM3703 1 GHz
- Computer Type: PDA
- Speed: 1000
from WINSYSTEMS, INC.
The SYS-405S is a rugged, industrial system capable of operating at extended temperatures without requiring a fan or heat-pipe. The SYS-405S is based on the quad-core Intel ® Atom ™ E3815 processor and protected by a rugged enclosure. The SYS-405S includes dual Ethernet, dual MiniPCIe, USB... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable; Rack
- Speed: 1460
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Main Memory: 2.00 to 8.00
from Secure Communication Systems
Designed to provide situational awareness & satellite communications [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: VIA Eden Ultra Low Voltage
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Speed: 1000
from Industrial PC, Inc.
6th Generation Intel ® Core ™ i3, i5, or i7. Skylake Intel ® Core ™ processors for high performance, in-vehicle applications. Designed for In-Vehicle Applications. Built-in ignition control and fanless chassis designed to handle shock and vibration. Wireless Connectivity. [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Speed: 2300 to 4000
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Main Memory: 32.00
from Handheld
Merging ultimate mobility with true field functionality, the Nautiz X4 rugged handheld is a durable tool designed with fieldwork in mind — it ’s packed with features, it ’s compact and truly portable, and it offers a reliable computing solution for challenging worksite... [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable
- Processor: Texas Instruments AM3715 1Ghz
- Computer Type: PDA
- Speed: 1000
from WINSYSTEMS, INC.
WinSystems ’ PPC65B-1x Panel PC Series is IP65-certified and optimized for use in demanding market applications including industrial machinery, utilities, petroleum, transportation, pipeline and food processing, wherever there is a need for tight system integration in a minimal footprint. [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable; Panel Mount
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Computer Type: Computer Terminal
- Speed: 1910
from Secure Communication Systems
Constructed using two-piece aluminum alloy chassis for heightened rigidity [See More]
- Mounting / Configuration: Handheld or Portable; Panel Mount (optional feature)
- Processor: Intel 386 Family
- Computer Type: Tablet
- Speed: 1600