Laptop computers used by daily consumers are typically stored indoors at ambient temperature and are rarely, if ever, subjected to inclement weather such as rain or snow, according to the manufacturer. Soldiers that use military laptops operate in far more extreme environments than the ordinary desktop user, and they require a laptop that is capable of operating in these conditions. Warfighters also require mobile computing systems that can operate practically anywhere, as well as systems that can maintain connectivity in remote regions.
The more advanced the technology that a soldier, airman, marine, or sailor has in the field, the better their decision-making and overall efficacy will be in combat.
Unfortunately, you won't be able to find all of these characteristics in your local electronics store or on Amazon.com. As a result, how can you ensure that your military personnel are properly equipped? You must first evaluate certain important factors when selecting the most appropriate military-grade tablet, such as compliance with military standards, IP Rating (ingress protection rating), environmental compatibility, sunlight readability, and connectivity.
MIL-STD compliance is required.
Rugged tablets used in military applications must be able to withstand drops of several feet, water exposure, and direct sunlight while retaining their performance levels. Various military criteria must be met by these products in order to assure that end users can live in these hostile conditions. Check to see if the devices have been tested in accordance with MIL-STD 810-G criteria against extreme environmental conditions such as temperature, shock, vibration, and humidity, among other things. The MIL-STD 461F standard is another one that should be followed to verify that the product satisfies the standards for the control of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Inquire with your vendor about the testing procedure that was used on the equipment, and then, after receiving a test report from the manufacturer, make sure to conduct your own testing.
The IP rating is a measure of how well a computer or other device performs in a networked environment.
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which is defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard 60529, is a critical component of any rugged equipment, since it determines the device's level of protection against particles and fluids. As a rule of thumb, the greater your score, the stronger your protection. If a device is stated to be military-grade, it should be protected by intellectual property (IP). The decision between IP65 and IP67 is based on the requirements of your application and your budget.
The ability to work in conjunction with existing military situations
The MIL-STD-38999 type circular connectors, also known as military standard connectors, are used in harsh military and aerospace environments because of their ability to withstand extreme shock, exposure, and vibration. They are commonplace in defense and commercial applications because of their ability to withstand extreme shock, exposure, and vibration. LAN/USB 2.0, RS-422, and DC power input connectors that meet military standards should be used on rugged military grade tablets to ensure seamless integration into existing military environments. MIL-STD-38999 connectors with exceptional versatility for LAN/USB 2.0, RS-232/RS-422, and DC power input should be used on rugged military grade tablets to ensure effortless connection to military equipment.
Readability in direct sunlight
Military mobile devices will most likely be used outside, where intense sunshine is a given part of everyday life. There are a few technologies available that improve the quality of the LCD panel, making it easier to read in direct sunlight. The first is an anti-glare solution that is applied to the tablet glass and helps absorb glaring light, thereby diminishing its intensity. This makes it easy for the observer to see the right image and ensures that the image is perfectly readable even at extremely wide viewing angles. When shopping for a touch-screen computer, another characteristic to look for is optical bonding, which improves sunlight readability. Increased brightness, improved clarity, and scratch resistance are typical benefits of using optical bonding technology on a touchscreen display.
Wireless connectivity is available
When it comes to mission-critical and warfare activities, real-time data access to the appropriate information is vital. In addition to having robust wireless connectivity onboard military-grade rugged tablets, having fast and accurate GPS with great horizontal position precision allows the warfighter to take benefit of the GPS system. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optional 3G or 4G LTE connectivity further enable the user to maintain reliable communications at all times and from any location.
Summary
These are only a few of the characteristics that distinguish military-grade ruggedized devices from consumer- and industrial-grade solutions. While military tough systems may be more expensive, their robust, highly reliable designs and features ensure that the product will last for a longer period of time, resulting in a reduced total cost of ownership in the long run (TCO).
Despite the fact that tablet computers provide a new generation of convenience for military personnel, not every device now available on the market is appropriate for use in such a rigorous setting. Companies such as Customize Tablet assist end users in navigating this process so that they may make the best decision possible in terms of safety, longevity, and performance. Make a well-considered decision.
