Secrets to Safe and Secure Mobile Computing Rugged Devices

Rugged computers are special laptops designed to withstand things that would otherwise damage or destroy a standard laptop. Originally designed for field use by the military, rugged computers are available from a number of manufacturers and are now styled to be more attractive to the average consumer. That's right, no big, blocky, camouflage laptops.

Many things separate rugged laptops from ordinary ones. Manufacturers design them to withstand harsh environments and accidents, so they put them through severe tests. Most rugged laptops are designed with the following criteria in mind.

Impact Resistance

Rugged computers must be impact-resistant. An all-too-common occurrence for laptop owners is dropping it, knocking it off a desk, or dropping something onto it. Such a fall or impact usually results in the following unfortunate situations:

- Broken components, including case, ports, and internal electrical components

- Crashed hard drives, making information irretrievable

- Cracked LCD screens

Rugged computers are designed with impact-resistant cases, often made of a strong, lightweight alloy such as magnesium. Manufacturers design the internal frame to provide shock resistance and avoid damage to electrical components. Many manufacturers design cases to withstand drops of over three feet onto hard surfaces.

Vibration Resistance

Because of the requirements of the original military and industrial market, rugged laptops resist vibration levels exceeding that which you might encounter in a moving vehicle. Vibration damage to laptops might result in the following:

- Internal component failure

- Keyboard failure

- Crashed hard drives

Moisture and Humidity Resistance

Moisture and humidity do not get along well with computers. Other than drops and falls, spills cause more damage to computers than any other accident. How many times have you accidentally spilled coffee or some other beverage next to, or onto, your laptop only to frantically attempt to clean it up with a paper towel? Most rugged laptop designs prevent liquids from entering the case when they're spilled onto the keyboard or through other openings. They also resist humidity, keeping moisture away from fragile electrical components. Moisture can cause the following damage to computers:

- Damage to display

- Damage to hard drive

- Damage to internal components

Drawbacks to Rugged Laptops

While they are especially durable, and can survive many accidents that would destroy the average laptop, there are some things to consider before running out and buying a rugged laptop:

- Price all that durability isn't free and rugged laptops can cost significantly more than comparable computers

Weight the most rugged computers usually weigh more than comparable notebooks

If these factors aren't a deterrent to your wallet (or lower back), and you travel often, seriously consider using a rugged laptop. Many major computer manufacturers produce rugged laptops. Usually these are special-order items, direct from the manufacturer, but many are available from online retailers.