Rugged Tablet Solutions
Rugged Tablet Solution for Industrial Applications
Overview
RDS supported an industrial customer that required a robust, mobile computing solution for use in demanding operational environments. The customer needed to replace ageing mobile hardware with a modern, supportable platform capable of running existing applications while withstanding harsh, real-world conditions.
RDS delivered a rugged tablet solution that combined industrial-grade durability, reliable performance and long-term availability, enabling the customer to modernise field operations without disrupting established workflows.
Challenge & Objectives
The customer’s existing mobile devices were becoming obsolete and increasingly unreliable in the field. Consumer-grade hardware had proven unsuitable for sustained industrial use, leading to failures, downtime and support concerns.
Key objectives included:
A mobile computing platform suitable for on-site industrial use
Reliable operation in harsh environments, including outdoor and workshop settings
Support for existing Windows-based applications, avoiding software rework
Long-term product availability and support
Improved durability compared with previous mobile hardware
High Bright display
The solution needed to integrate smoothly into existing processes while delivering a clear step forward in robustness and reliability.
Design & Development
RDS worked with the customer to assess operational requirements and identify a rugged tablet platform that met both technical and environmental demands. A 10.1 inch industrial rugged tablet was selected as the most suitable form factor, offering a balance between portability, screen size and performance.
Key design considerations included:
A hardened enclosure designed to withstand knocks, vibration and rough handling
Environmental sealing to protect against dust and moisture
Sufficient processing performance to run the customer’s bespoke control and monitoring software
Integrated wireless connectivity to support data transfer and remote access
RDS ensured the selected platform aligned with the customer’s long-term support expectations and deployment strategy.
Configuration, Testing & Deployment
Once the platform was selected, RDS supported configuration and validation to ensure the tablet performed reliably in real operating conditions. Testing focused on usability, performance and durability during typical field activities. Modifications were made to increase the displkay brightness to conform to customer requirements.
The rugged tablets were then deployed as part of the customer’s operational toolkit, enabling engineers and technicians to carry out on-site control, testing and data collection tasks with greater confidence in their equipment.
Outcome & Impact
The rugged tablet solution delivered a significant improvement in reliability and usability compared with the customer’s previous mobile devices. The new platform reduced hardware failures, improved operator confidence and provided a sustainable, long-term replacement for legacy equipment.
By selecting an industrial-grade tablet that supported existing software and workflows, RDS helped the customer modernise their mobile computing capability without introducing unnecessary complexity or risk.
Key Takeaways
Industrial rugged tablet selected for demanding field environments
Mobile solution supporting existing Windows-based applications
Improved durability and reliability over consumer-grade hardware
Long-term supportable platform for ongoing industrial use
RDS helps customers select, configure and deploy rugged computing solutions that meet the practical realities of industrial and field-based operations.
