Rugged tablets are essential to withstand the rigours of harsh and remote work environments, from vibration and dust to adverse weather conditions and rough terrain. So which operating system (OS) do you choose to get the most out of your rugged device?
The OS is the backbone of a tablet’s performance, functionality and overall user experience. It manages hardware resources, provides a platform for running applications, and ensures data security. Let’s compare Windows and Android operating systems for rugged tablets.
Windows OS – performance and integration
For years, Windows was the primary choice. With the rise of the internet, many users employed Windows as the first mainstream OS and never looked back. Numerous benefits have made Windows the standard OS, especially for mobile devices like tablets and smartphones.
Windows rugged tablet computers are high-performing and capable of increased multitasking, an increasingly essential trait of a tablet used in the field. A tablet running Windows 11 OS requires a 1GHz processor and at least 4GB of RAM to ensure it can run basic applications. In addition, the Windows OS is designed to handle high performance applications with comparable loads to gaming and intelligent video conferencing.
The wide usage of Windows makes integration easy. Windows models offer many options for integration with a vast array of peripherals, including third-party keyboards and mice, docking stations, hard drives and other hardware components. Windows tablets typically contain multiple USB 3.0 and USB-C ports and HDMI for connecting devices and displays/projectors, and some include legacy ports such as RS-232.
A rugged Windows tablet can come in various sizes, shapes and weights. Screen sizes can range from 7″ to 15.6″, allowing the user to select the optimal size for the application. This design flexibility enables users to choose the Windows tablet that best fits the usage scenario for their job.
Android OS – customisation, low power consumption
The Android OS is an effective alternative that allows businesses to tailor the technical complexity to their needs. Customisation is Android’s most significant advantage – and without a lengthy review process, there is a low barrier to publishing new applications. This advantage may be due to the Google Play Store being more popular than the Microsoft Store.
Although Windows tablets enjoy a robust, mature OS capable of performing nearly any task, users may not always need such a powerful system. Some vendors create customised versions of Android with their own app store, allowing them to offer unique content and user experiences. The Android OS can be application-specific, promoting a customised architecture that reduces overall hardware costs. Android carries a significantly lower licence fee.
The combination of more flexible hardware options and reduced license fees make the Android tablet a cost-effective solution, enabling developers to avoid platform-specific code customisation.
Android inherently uses less power and is more energy-efficient than its Windows counterparts due to its ability to customise system architecture to its application. Lower power consumption reduces operating costs and extends the lifetime from a single battery charge during remote operation.
Android can integrate with Google Workspace easily, as it is a platform many users already use. Seamless integration can tie the Android rugged tablet to cloud storage and the most powerful search engine. While the ease of new application launch and open-sourced availability make the OS easy to implement, security issues are common, with streamlined or limited reviews and open-sourcing.
Android tablets provide access to many different applications, downloaded from Google Play, and applications can be used simultaneously. The wide variety of applications available on Android tablets has significantly influenced the tablet market, making Android a popular choice among consumers. In addition, many Android apps allow you to tailor the software to fit your needs.
Factors to consider when choosing an OS
When selecting an OS for a rugged tablet, several factors come into play. These include industry-specific requirements, reliability and security, durability and compatibility with other devices.
Industry-specific requirements
Different industries have unique requirements when it comes to tablet operating systems. For example, healthcare professionals may require an OS that meets strict security and compliance standards, while educators may need an OS that is easy to use and manage. Understanding the specific needs of your industry is crucial when choosing an OS.
Reliability and security
Reliability and security are critical factors to consider when selecting an OS. A reliable OS ensures the tablet functions smoothly and efficiently, while a secure OS protects sensitive data from unauthorised access. Look for OS options that offer robust security features, such as encryption, secure boot mechanisms and regular software updates.
Durability and ruggedness
Tablets are often used in harsh environments, making durability and ruggedness essential considerations. Look for hardware options with OS customisations designed to withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations and drops. A rugged tablet OS can ensure the tablet functions optimally, even in challenging conditions.
Android may be the better choice if the application requires a simple, cost-effective solution that allows you to customise it to a specific use case easily. The rugged Android tablet takes the simplicity of the smartphone and extends its applicability to a business-capable, efficient, cost-effective solution.
Windows may be better for high performance and integration with other systems and devices, prioritising data integrity, device-managed security, and flexibility in tablet design features. A rugged Windows tablet maintains the power, safety, and compatibility of a laptop while adding the agility and compactness of a tablet.
Getac offers Android rugged tablets
Android tablets are gaining favourability in the marketplace in applications that do not require the capability of a Windows solution. Industries employing this OS include defence, public safety, utilities, automotive, oil & gas, and transportation & logistics. Getac offers the ZX10 rugged tablet with the Android OS.
The ZX10 operates on Android 11 OS, can last an entire work shift, and boasts the efficiency and intuitive operation users expect from an Android tablet. The tablet uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 CPU, which incorporates more computationally intensive tasks without the power draw of Windows models. It also includes dual microphones and contains a dedicated GPS.
Getac engineered the ZX10 to withstand rugged conditions with power and versatility. It is certified to survive weather and elements, water-jet, and extreme temperature (-29°C ~ 63°C) exposure.
- Accessories. The ZX10 comes with a 4990mAh battery, a 65W AC wall adapter, and a capacitive stylus with a tether. Optional accessories include a 100W Type-C wall and 120W DC-DC vehicle adapter, as well as an external dual bay primary battery charger. For transport, the ZX10 fits into a fabric carry bag. When using the tablet, it works in a 2- or 4-point harness for hands-free access. The ZX10 can use an office dock for touchscreen use or a keyboard dock for conversion to a laptop-style experience for a monitor-style display. It also integrates with a rotating strap, kickstand, and multiple models of vehicle docks.
- Display. A 10.1″ touchscreen display with an 8MP front/16MP rear camera captures high-quality images and videos. In addition, the display augments the transportability of a hand-held tablet, allowing it to be used as a remote laptop when docked.
- Support Options. Because of the ZX10’s durability, Getac offers a 3-year warranty to cover accidental damage to the entire device in these harsh working environments. This benefit provides you the peace of mind that you will be back running in days, minimising cost and downtime.
- Storage. The ZX10 can be stored or used in environments between -29-63°C in 95% relative humidity (non-condensing) conditions.
ESIS Industrial Electronics offers a range of industrial computing solutions, including rugged tablets, data loggers, industrial displays, integrated computing platforms and programmable interfaces for direct PLC integration. Contact us about solutions to keep your business operations running efficiently
Article courtesy of Getac.
