Rugged Device Management
Choosing a rugged device isn’t as straightforward as choosing another device type because it’s really a sub-category. Do you need a smartphone or a rugged smartphone? A tablet or a rugged tablet? Is putting a “regular” device in a ruggedized case an option? Whether you’re looking for a rugged Android option or need to figure out if an iPad in a bulky case is the better choice, you’re in the right place.
Rugged devices for business use cases
Rugged devices are the more durable and reliable version of the devices you already know, like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They’re what Superman is to Clark Kent, if you will. Sure, a regular device is great, but a rugged device has water resistance, drop protection, and the ability to endure extreme temperatures. This extra toughness makes them invaluable in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and emergency response, where consistent communication and equipment resilience are non-negotiable.
Like all things, rugged devices have some drawbacks. Their specialized designs and advanced features can mean higher price tags, which can affect your bottom line (but can often be recouped through device longevity). They can also have bulky and heavier designs, making the user experience less seamless and efficient. Plus, due to their specialized nature, rugged devices may trail behind their mainstream counterparts in terms of software capabilities. You’re getting more of a steady workhorse than a flashy Triple Crown winner.
When you’re considering going rugged, you’ve got options. Do you go full rugged, disguise a consumer-grade device in a rugged case, or just let the device be itself? Here’s a quick rundown of what each option is best for to help you decide. And don’t worry, if you’ve ever had to answer the question, “Mild, medium, or spicy?” you’re fully prepared for this.
Rugged devices have the durability you wish hard shell tacos did. While hard shell tacos can’t even be held without falling apart, rugged devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest conditions, such as extreme temps, moisture, dust, and potential drops, in the toughest environments, like construction sites, manufacturing floors, and outdoor fieldwork.
Rugged devices are often more expensive at first, but their durability can mean savings in the long run thanks to their reduced risk of damage and longer lifespans. It’s like a horror movie in reverse. The jump scare is up front, then it’s smooth sailing.
If a device goes down and no one is around to see it, does it really go down? Yes, yes it does. That’s why rugged devices often come with a longer battery life so they can operate for extended periods in remote places where charging isn’t easily accessible.
There are cost savings to be reaped here, both in the short and long term. A rugged case is less expensive than a rugged device, making it cheaper up front, and the added protection makes the device more durable than an uncased device, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.
Consumer-grade devices tend to be a more budget-friendly choice. This is great for those with smaller spending power, but be aware the cost of damage or replacement could be greater in the long run.
No bulky or heavy cases here, just slim and lightweight devices. The user experience can be more mobile and carefree— unless, of course, you drop it.
Consumer-grade devices are the favorite child in the device world. They bask in constant attention, enjoying frequent updates that keep them at the cutting edge of functionality and ahead of their rugged counterparts.
If you’re feeling drained from shopping for your ideal rugged devices, you’re in the right place. Read these considerations and then listen for the device that sings, “Hello, it’s me you’re looking for!”
Customization level
Make sure your device offers customization options to meet your specific business needs. Build your masterpiece — add a barcode scanner, RFID readers, or some specialized connectors if you like. You should feel as innovative as Michelangelo — the Renaissance guy, not the Ninja Turtle.
Ease of use
Contrary to what your mom told you, what’s on the outside sometimes counts. And this is one of those times. User-friendliness and ergonomic design should not be overlooked, especially for devices handled over extended periods or in emergency services where user efficiency is paramount.
Durability
Prioritize devices with a high IP rating, indicating their resistance to dust and water. And check for compliance with MIL-STD-810G standards to ensure the device meets durability and performance criteria for rugged equipment. It's crucial to invest in rugged devices that will endure, saving both money and time.
Security
Thinking about security every day keeps breaches at bay. Well, not fully. You also need features like encryption, remote wipe, passcode enforcement, and secure app distribution to protect your sensitive data.
Adaptability
To maximize your investment, look for that chameleon energy — devices that can easily adapt to future advancements and upgrades. Switching out devices can be expensive, time-consuming, and a logistical nightmare.
Budget
Expand your thinking beyond price per unit. Factor in routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and other lifetime costs to determine the actual cost of what you’re buying. Otherwise, you’re in for some not so fun surprises.
NEXT STEPS
Our hardware experts make finding the right hardware easy! Esper has guided thousands of customers to develop efficient, scalable device fleets that meet their needs. With our robust partner catalog and vast hardware support we can always find a solution.
Managing my rugged devices
Now that you’ve got your rugged devices, it’s time to manage them. An MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution is a great tool to monitor and protect your rugged devices, but there isn’t a cookie cutter solution out there. Here’s what to consider while you’re shopping around:
At Esper, we love user friendliness and automation. In fact, we’ve made it our whole personality. Provisioning and software updates? Done in a few clicks. Remote control? Built it right into the console. Kiosk mode? As tough as the rugged device it’s on. All you’ll find here is efficiency and simplicity so your devices can tackle the most demanding use cases while you feel like a true superhero. A batmobile isn’t included here, but we won’t stop you from wearing the suit.
Streamlined device grouping
Easily group devices to improve organization and manage all your devices from a single console.
Update at will
Test updates on a single device, then stage rollouts to groups based on custom rules.
Enhanced visibility
Monitor device vitals like status, health, and usage at a glance. Set custom alerts for automated monitoring.
Device kitting made simple
Your IT teams can deploy dozens of devices in minutes instead of hours. Maybe even go home early.
Avoid expensive onsite visits
View and control devices, troubleshoot issues, or generate a debugging report. From anywhere.
Streamlined software delivery
Ensure devices boot up with the most current OS version and settings. No matter what.
Eliminate device tampering
Lock devices down with hardened kiosk mode so users only access what you want.
Protect system integrity
Control when apps get added, updated, and removed — on the fly, at any time. As often as you need.
Keep devices from disappearing
Track devices in real-time and set up a virtual geofence to protect your assets.
Real-life examples of how Esper’s innovative solutions drive value across diverse industries
Esper ensures the performance of rugged devices for first responders
Esper’s software is integral to our ability to roll out the rugged headless SD7 in large scale deployments with enterprise and public safety customers and remotely update the devices. Esper does the heavy lifting of device security, fleet management, and software updates behind the scenes so first responders can focus on the job at hand.
I’m putting tablets into 80,000 pound 18 wheelers that are out on the highway. One of my biggest fears is that a driver is going to be watching videos or playing games while driving in my equipment. I needed a way to lock my device down so only company approved applications were being used. Esper gives me the control to do that.
Flipping x86 devices to Android enables a rugged computing OEM to reduce TCO by 30%
Esper Foundation works. No one else does it successfully today. Esper’s engineering staff made it easy to put Android on any x86 device. Out of the box, Foundation worked extremely well, requiring only some minor fine-tuning. Pushing out Foundation OTA made it so easy to deploy and update.
Kiosk mode locks down devices to a single application or interface, preventing other uses. It’s a way for organizations to not only keep their devices more secure but ensure the experience for the end user is exactly as intended.
Kiosk mode is a robust, secure option for locking down devices. But it isn’t a native feature found in most operating systems — it requires dedicated kiosk software. Android and iOS both have kiosk-like features in their App Pinning and Guided Access features, but for full control of mobile operating systems, kiosk mode software is a must.
Yes. Android app pinning can provide a very limited Android kiosk mode, but without key security and management features.
Screen pinning doesn't require an MDM. For a more robust and secure kiosk mode, however, you'll need a kiosk mode provider like an MDM.
Yes! Nearly any Android device with a touchscreen can be run in kiosk mode.
