When your device has to be used for multi-shifts or long hours, consider finding models with hot-swap batteries or auxiliary batteries to ensure continuous operations without the need to shut down or finding a charger for the device. This is another feature that consumer phones lack, as their batteries are usually not field-replaceable.

Many warehouses require devices to be mounted on forklifts. For such use cases, this is an additionally long-term investment as you not only have to consider how durable the rugged device is when subjected to vehicle vibrations, but the cost of cradles to be installed on the forklift. Gamber Johnson, Proclip and RAM MOUNTS and some brands with quality cradle which allows charge and power handheld mobile computers when used on forklifts. Consult Comtrol Solutions for the supply and installation of Proclip cradles in Singapore.

#4: Specifications: Processor, screen, ports

Consumer tablets are typically used for a variety of purposes, including video streaming and gaming. Consumers may consider factors like large display screen, storage, speaker quality or elegance of design. Rugged handheld computers however, are designed for different needs.

Qualcomm is the common processer for Android handheld computers.  If your application is web-based and running on a browser, 4GB RAM is typically sufficient though you may consider 6GB or 8GB ram if multiple applications have to run at the same time.

Screen size is an important consideration for operator efficiency. Test out the UI of the application running on the tablet to find out if the screen size is sufficient to display the required information or it will impact operation efficiency. If a bigger screen is required, consider a 8 inch tablet instead as most handhand mobile computers have an estimated screen size of 6 inches.

#5 Environmental Considerations

Some operators operate in hazardous areas containing volatile chemicals. In these scenarios, you need IECEx or ATEX approved tablets. At Comtrol Solutions, we carry an extensive range of these gadgets, including the BARTEC TC26ex-NI (ATEX Zone 2/22 approved), the Bartec SCex1 Smart Scannner (ATEX Zone 0/1/21) or the  the Bartec SPex1 Smartphone (ATEX Zone 0/1/21)

If your device is used outdoors, besides considering the waterproofing (IP protection) of the tablet, consider if the screen supports ‘wet mode’.  Also look at whether the screen is bright enough for viewing if it is used under sunlight Nits refer to candela per square meter. Brightness of 800 nits is usually the minimum preference for the display to be ‘sunlight readable’.

#6: Return on investment

Mentioned in #1, a device which can support future operating systems means that future apps may be supported and your tablet may be usable for many many years.  It may be tempting for companies to purchase low-cost commercial devices since they generally cost less than rugged devices. However, they may spend more on repairs and replacements in the long run. The downtime and disruption to operations can be even more costly, as mobile devices become an integral part of businesses. Zebra has the Zebra OneCare™ plan which provides accidental damage protection, an attractive option for customers operating in harsh environment and subject to abusive operational use.