Rugged laptops and tablets have been a mainstay of military operations for a number of years now, offering those in control the ability to stay connected to individuals across vast divides whilst also allowing them the chance to have all the tactical information they need, when they need it.
However, with smart phones being ubiquitous and with so many new apps allowing a whole range of individuals to access, disseminate and interpret data from anywhere, are rugged solutions really still necessary?
RUGGED TABLETS VS SMART PHONES
The need for rugged technology in harsh conditions is as high as ever. Whilst smart phones can sometimes offer similar capabilities to even high-spec computers, they offer myriad negatives too, being flimsy, easy to locate and trace, and simply failing to perform at their best in many different environments.
Furthermore, whilst smart phones can be easily carried, it is not practical to offer each and every member of an operation access to the very same data. Not only will it be important to give such control to specific individuals, but such technology can also cause unwelcome distractions that others will need to avoid to ensure focus can always be paid to safety.
The functionality of smart phones is also going to be limited, something that may explain why smart phones are yet to be explored in any depth by companies making rugged technology solutions. Whilst there are plenty of hard, ‘rugged’ cases available for phones of all specs, rugged technology is not just about providing extra protection. Instead, everything from the casing to the components will be designed with protection and durability in mind, not only ensuring that these devices can operate in a range of changing temperatures, but also that they are not going to affected by the likes of impact, moisture or sun exposure.
Smart phones are too small and fiddly to really offer the functionality needed in extreme conditions and in situations that may be extremely time-dependent. Whilst tablets and laptops may be larger and in turn more cumbersome, their size also offers much greater usability and in turn more chance of success.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RUGGED TECHNOLOGY
Rugged technology is important to a range of different industries, but none more so than military organisations. Whilst those carrying out general tests or experiments in harsh conditions may be unable to do so without the right protection for their technological aids, those carrying out military manoeuvres or training will have a far greater need for such items to ensure that they can be constantly informed of changes, can keep in contact with those in other regions and that they have the best tactical awareness possible.
The face of warfare and even protection is constantly changing, and technology is increasingly important for those in any military situation. Potential threats will be armed with their own devices, and in turn having better and, more importantly, consistently functional technology will be vital for the safety of personnel and the success of any military action, no matter how small or how large.
About the Author – Adam Howes is a freelance writer and blogger. He regularly writes articles about defence solutions, using websites such as www.griduk.com to stay up to date with all the latest industry news and developments.