Ruggedized and Industrial Computers Key Terms

Some key terms for ruggedized and industrial computers and gear
By J. Stoltzfus, writer/programmer LOCAL CITIZEN Many times, a company's computer system needs to be used in a challenging remote field area. Extreme temperatures, wet or dusty conditions, or extreme vibrations all produce problems. Technological advances have helped to solve this with high-quality ruggedized and industrial computers and gear that will stand up to any conditions. Knowing about some of the basic terms for standards and ruggedized elements will help purchasers outfit their companies with the best and most efficient choices.

Rugged laptops

Rugged laptop or notebook computers are a solution for businesses that will be sending workers out into remote industrial environments. The ruggedized laptop or notebook is a portable PC with features to withstand dust, heat and other factors.
Try:  Read up on types of rugged laptop models at Group Mobile.

Rugged monitor

Often, screens are in need of special protection. Rugged monitors protect against temperature changes and debris.
Try:  Let briefs on rugged monitor types like this Stealth aluminum case monitor bring you up to speed on what makers include in rugged monitors to make them impervious to the conditions of a harsh environment.

PC enclosures and cases

Another option for computers that will be permanently installed in a hot, dusty, damp or otherwise challenging environment is a rugged PC case or enclosure. These are made in many shapes and sizes as "protective outfitting" for the computers you rely on in the field.
Try:  Get a visual look at some options for rugged or industrialized computer cases at PC Enclosures.

Flexible keyboard

Along with monitor and motherboard solutions for ruggedized computers, there is the issue of peripherals. The most common solution? A flexible keyboard. Because many of the old DOS-based computers used in harsh environments are primarily operated by a keyboard, having one that is dust resistant is all-important. Industrial elements and debris can clog up a keyboard. New flexible plastic-enclosed keyboards provide a perfect fix for this potential problem.
Try:  Get definitions, specs and visuals on flexible keyboards at USB Geek.

Military grade

A "military grade" standard is often a guide to how rugged your computers and gear are. The military tests its gear to stand up to some pretty tough conditions found around the world.
Try:  Find out more about military grade standards for ruggedized computers at Linux on Laptops.

Ingress protection

The "Ingress Protection Rating" measures how well a computer can stand up to elements.
Try:  Check out the details on ingress protection rating and a whole lot of other ruggedized computer terms at this guide from LXE.com, (on page 3).