Rugged mobile computers can operate under all types of working conditions. A computer is generally defined as rugged if it can easily operate in harsh conditions throughout its life of three to five years.
However, what one user defines as ‘rugged’ may not be the same as another! It depends on operating conditions and the requirements of the task being performed. For example, a forester needs a computer capable of withstanding temperature extremes and rain, while computers used in a warehouse might need to be dust-proof.
Here are three essential specifications to consider when choosing a rugged mobile computer.
Temperature range
These specifications are always present on the product data-sheet. There are temperature specs that identify the operational temperature unit range. The rugged computer can fail to operate if the unit is below or above the temperature spec.
MIL-STD testing standards and techniques
This process includes 24 laboratory tests that identify a wide range of environmental impacts on electrical devices. For example, the 500.5 method determines the ability of a device to perform at high altitudes. The 516.6 method determines the ability of a device to survive mechanically induced shocks.
MIL-STD-810G is a drop test standard set by the U.S Army’s Developmental Test Command. The process involves dropping a device 26 times on all sides including edges and corners. While the protocol was developed to test military equipment, the MIL-STD-810G test is now used for all types of civilian devices, including rugged mobile computers.
While not all mobile computes undergo all 24 tests, the more tests it passes, the more rugged it is. Handheld Algiz 7 and Algiz 10X ultra-rugged tablets are the most rugged units for example. These devices are tested between 8 and 10 MIL-STD-810G methods. It is crucial to identify the most applicable tests while evaluating the data-sheet.
Ingress Protection (IP)
The IP rating is the environmental protection level of electrical equipment against ingress of liquids and solids. Defined by the International Standard IEC 60529, IP ratings are identified as two-digit numbers. The first digit highlights the dust-protection levels and the second digit reflects the liquid-protection levels.
Dust Protection – First Digit Scale Identification
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0 – Unprotected
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1 – Protection against 50mm solids
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2 – Protection against 12mm solids
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3 – Protection against 2.5mm solids
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4 – Protection against 1mm solids
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5 – Limited ingress dust protection
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6 – Full dust protection
Liquid Protection – Second Digit Scale Identification
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0 – Unprotected
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1 – Dripping water protection
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2 – Dripping water (tilted) protection
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3 – Water spray protection
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4 – Splashing water protection
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5 – Water jet protection
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6 – Nozzle under pressure protection
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7 – Immersion (1 metre for 30 min) protection
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8 – Submersion (buoyancy) protection
The scales highlight that the dust spec has seven levels while the water spec has nine levels.
For example, an IP67-rated unit is completely dustproof and has immersion protection for at least 30 minutes at a depth of one metre. In contrast, an IP54 has an IP rating that offers limited protection against dust and water.
In practical use, ideal rugged computers have a minimum of level five dust protection and level four water protection.
IP68 is a term that is trending with rugged device manufacturers recently. It requires additional details such as the depth of liquid and the duration of immersion. Always remember to compare the specifics if a device offers IP68.
Understanding the specifications of how a computer operates in the field in the long term is essential. It helps you to pick an ideal rugged computer for your situation and work. It is always a good idea to purchase a mobile computer that is more rugged than what you need for the job.
ESIS is the leading supplier of electronic industrial equipment in the Australian market since 1971. Check out our premium range of rugged mobile computers, PCs, HMIs, fanless PCs, and other electronic components. Our products are certified and made with high-quality materials for reliable performance. Contact us for a detailed discussion with our experts.
Article Courtesy of: Handheld
