Kickstarting your frontline digital transformation journey means an investing in technology — both software and hardware. This means tablets on the shop floor and out in the field. Tablets give supervisors, maintenance techs, and operators, access to valuable digital tools and data.
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As the leading solution for digital work instructions and operational training, Dozuki has helped hundreds of manufacturers assess tablets for a wide range of industrial and manufacturing environments. From freezing ice boxes, to molten steel forges, and everything in between. With this background, we created this comprehensive resource to help you feel confident when choosing tablets for your operations.
The portability of tablets reduces the need for bulky monitors and fixed work stations. Time spent traveling to find, access, or return information to separate locations leads to waste and poor quality standards.
Tablets give operators the ability to access and record information on the shop floor or in the field, where computers and large binders are not practical. When finding and accessing information is a burden, people will be less likely to use documented standards.
Not only are paper trails messy, they are unregulated—creating a data security vulnerability.
Tablets move company knowledge off of paper records and into a more controlled environment. This reduces the risk that information is shared or changed without proper approval. Traceable edits and access logs guarantee that only current safety and quality standards are being used.
When procedures are updated, they can be instantly distributed to tablets on the shop floor—making communication of changes much faster. Gone are the days of tracking down pages in a binder, ripping them out, and replacing with new sheets.
Handheld tablets allow engineers and operators to photograph on the floor. Rather than waiting to transfer files from cameras to computers, tablets can be used to instantly capture equipment, processes, and issues on the floor. Capturing videos is an excellent way to demonstrate work and key safety procedures. Visual information benefits everyone because it reduces ambiguity and improves safety. Tablets can be a great catalyst for creating more effective visual work instructions and training materials.
Tablets can use bluetooth barcode scanners as a more portable alternative to wired scanners with computer workstations. The tablet’s camera can also utilize QR codes to tag workstations, check inventory, and more. Operators frequently use this capability in Dozuki to lookup maintenance procedures, submit quality checks, or verify part ID numbers.
Tablets make accessing and reading work instructions far easier. Clear displays allow for information to be presented more visually, leveraging CAD drawings, photos, and videos. Instructions are easier to navigate and read, as universal motions, such as swiping and pinching allow operators to quickly scan, and focus on specific information.
After helping hundreds of customers purchase tablets and implement electronic work instructions, we’ve learned that each aspect is vital to ensure that tablets will be successfully implemented and adopted. IT departments will be focused on infrastructure and security, while floor supervisors will be more concerned with practical aspects, such as the device’s usability or battery life. Use the following criteria to guide your decision and balance the needs of all stakeholders involved.
Manufacturing and field service companies run in a wide range of environments to consider when finding the right industrial tablet for your business.
Depending on the use-case, you will need to determine if the device can be docked for most of the day, or if the battery needs to last 12+hours. Alternatively, rugged tablets with will a hot-swap batteries can be used to maintain power indefinitely.
Will wi-fi always be available? If an internet connection is required, will a hotspot be necessary for field work or off-site jobs?
For colder environments, operators may need tablets that they can interact with while wearing gloves. If the environment is humid or wet, consider tablets specifically built for these purposes.
Will the device need to be able to be water or dust proof? If so, pay attention to the device's "IP" rating.
Will the operator be entering large amounts of data as part of their work? If so, consider a keyboard accessory to make the work faster and less prone to errors.
Make sure your tablet’s operating system can be used within the existing infrastructure of any governing IT departments. Device security largely comes down to the greater network security and the type of access points available. Tablets aren’t inherently risky from this perspective, but it’s not a point to be taken lightly.
Shop floor tablets need to be rugged, and able to endure active and often hazardous manufacturing environments. Knowing that your screen won’t shatter when bumped or dropped is important because repairs aren’t always cheap. There are tablets built with this in mind, but similar protection can be found by investing in rugged cases. No matter the choice, make sure to equip your screens with added protection against cracks and scratches.
While repairability may seem to be a secondary concern, as we invest more in technology it’s increasingly important to understand the total costs of ownership. Consider the repairability of the tablet as an investment in the longevity of your device. Accidents are inevitable and certain components simply have a shelf life. For example, most lithium-ion batteries are only intended to last about two years. Does your device make it easy to replace batteries, or will you need to spend money on a new one? Will it require costly repairs when a screen cracks? Our friends at iFixit create repairability scores for tablets which provide a sense of how difficult a device is to repair.
Consider which applications and software tools you intend to use with the tablet. Does the system include native software that you don't want operators to have access to? Knowing what applications you plan to use with your devices ahead of time can be helpful when assessing options. Not all software programs have applications for every operating system. On the other hand, cloud-based applications have the advantage of working on any web browser.
The concept of touchscreen mobile computing is not a new one. For several years, pseudo laptop/tablet devices have attempted to make their mark on the market. These devices featured swivel touch screens that made them heavy, cumbersome, and awkward to carry around. Added to this, they were more expensive than laptops or netbooks, and their hybrid design failed to take the business world by storm.
Then came the smartphone – smaller, cheaper, and ultra-portable, but lacking the functionality of larger devices. While it was a good solution, it was far from a revolution.
Enter the tablet computer – lightweight, sleek, practical, and highly usable. In one word: perfect, with better performance.
Let’s consider the real-world business applications of a tablet PC or a rugged tablet. You can get a rugged tablet designed for use in harsh environments, the best-rugged tablet with drop-proof designs, an Android tablet, or a tablet running on a Windows operating system. Your tablet can have features including water resistance, drop resistance, and brightness adjustments for use in bright daylight. Rugged tablets can withstand the harshest environments, which is why they are the most versatile and reliable choice for business use.
You may be asking How can tablets be used in a business? Tablets can be used in a business in a variety of ways, offering portability and versatility. Here are some examples:
These are just a few examples of how tablets can be utilized in a business setting. The specific use cases will depend on the nature of the business and its unique needs and goals.
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Rugged tablets have become increasingly popular among businesses that operate in harsh environments, such as construction sites, warehouses, military bases, and outdoor locations. These tablets are specifically designed to withstand extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture, and are often drop tested to ensure their durability.
One of the key benefits of rugged tablets is their rugged protection. They are built to withstand extreme conditions and are often temperature tested to ensure their reliability in hot or cold environments. Additionally, they are drop-proof, which means they can withstand accidental drops without compromising their functionality. This is especially important in industries where accidents are common.
Another benefit of rugged tablets is their battery life. They are designed to provide extended battery life, which is critical in environments where power sources may not be readily available. This allows workers to remain productive without having to worry about charging their devices frequently.
Moreover, rugged tablets are built to military standards, ensuring that they can withstand the harshest conditions. They offer protection for both the device and the data it contains. This is essential for industries that handle sensitive information, including healthcare and finance.
Rugged tablets are also equipped with high-performance processors and apps, enabling workers to complete tasks efficiently and quickly. They offer ample storage space for important data and files, ensuring that workers can access them at any time.
In today’s market, businesses operating in harsh environments require devices that can withstand extreme conditions, such as drops, temperature changes, dust, and water. This is where rugged tablets come in – they offer the durability and rugged protection that businesses need. But it’s not just about the exterior; the hardware of a rugged tablet is equally important.
When it comes to selecting the right hardware for a rugged tablet, there are several key factors to consider. The processor, storage, and operating system all play a critical role in ensuring that the tablet can handle the demands of users in the field. Additionally, a good tablet should have GPS capabilities for location tracking and navigation. Use this list when deciding on the right tablet for you
But what makes a tablet fully rugged? It should be temperature tested, drop proof, and meet military standards for durability. The battery life should also be long-lasting to ensure that users can work uninterrupted for long periods.
Having the right hardware on a fully rugged tablet can make all the difference for businesses operating in harsh environments. It can protect the device and the data on it, while also ensuring that the tablet can run essential apps and programs smoothly. Ultimately, investing in a rugged tablet with quality hardware can help businesses work more efficiently and effectively in even the toughest conditions.
Tablet PCs redefine the concept of the “mobile office”. They are completely portable and easy to use in a variety of situations. Unlike a laptop which ideally needs to be placed on a flat surface, you can use a tablet just about anywhere – on a train, in a car (not whilst driving please!), walking through the park, or even whilst in long queues at airports! Have you tried note-taking during meetings using your laptop? If so, you will know only too well that a laptop acts as a barrier between you and everyone else.
Tablet PCs, however, are unobtrusive and can therefore be utilized during meetings in much the same way as a notepad and pen. Their screen functionality allows you to handwrite notes, sketch diagrams, open and edit spreadsheets and even annotate and scribble on digital documents such as PDFs. Your notes can then be converted to text, printed wirelessly, or emailed almost instantaneously.
PowerPoint presentations can be interesting and informative, but getting your message across is practically impossible when you are cramped around a laptop. With a tablet PC, you can simply hand over the presentation to your audience, and let them hold it themselves whilst they view the presentation. Alternatively, plug your tablet into a projector or TV screen using the VGA or HDMI output for that ‘big screen’ effect.
Form filling can be tedious and time-consuming. Pen and paper follow a tedious process (1) Fill in the paper-based form (2) Fax/ scan and email/ take the form to the office (3) Copy data from the form onto the computer (4) File the original form. With a tablet PC, you can enter the data directly into the electronic form. This data can then be stored and shared immediately. No double entry, reducing human error and no paper wastage, saving both time and money whilst increasing the reliability and integrity of your data.
Having all the information you require at your fingertips can prove invaluable. Be it product catalogues, reference manuals, encyclopaedias, or your entire customer database, with a tablet PC you can view all the information you need, whenever you need it, either locally or across a network.
Being at the forefront of technology is becoming ever more important in business, as is online networking and collaboration. We know that touchscreen tablet computers benefit a business in the following ways:
Secondary benefits will begin to emerge once these devices are in place and being used alongside your existing technology.
Barcode scanning can provide numerous benefits for businesses, especially those operating in harsh environments. With the scanning capability of rugged devices, businesses can take advantage of these benefits even in tough conditions.
One of the most obvious benefits of barcode scanning is the ability to track inventory and assets more efficiently. With the use of a barcode scanner, employees can quickly and accurately record information about products, parts, and equipment. This can help businesses stay organized, reduce errors, and save time.
Another advantage of barcode scanning is improved data collection. By using a rugged tablet or device with a reliable GPS, businesses can collect data about their operations and use it to optimize their processes. With a powerful processor and ample storage, data can be easily captured, analysed, and shared across departments, providing insights that can help businesses make more informed decisions.
In addition, rugged devices that are temperature-tested, drop-proof, and dust and water-resistant – with an IP Rating of 65 and above – can be used in a variety of tough environments, from warehouses and construction sites to field service and military operations. This makes them a versatile tool for businesses of all types.
The use of barcode scanning with rugged devices can help businesses operate more efficiently, with better accuracy, data, and insights. Whether you’re in the market for a fully rugged Android tablet or a Windows operating system device, investing in the right hardware is essential to ensure that your business is well-equipped to handle the challenges of your industry.
Whether or not you should buy a tablet depends on your specific needs and preferences. Tablets can be a great device for various purposes such as browsing the internet, consuming media, playing games, and even some productivity tasks. They offer portability and convenience with their lightweight design and touch screen interface. However, if you already have a smartphone and a laptop or desktop computer that meet your needs, a tablet may not be necessary. It’s important to consider factors such as budget, intended use, and how it fits into your overall tech ecosystem before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice to buy a tablet is personal and should be based on your individual circumstances and preferences. See our self help articles on how to pick best tablet for your next purchase.
Conkers’ range of rugged tablets includes the SX82, and NS10 models, each designed to withstand harsh environments and challenging conditions. These tablets are built to military-grade standards, making them resistant to water, dust, drops, and extreme temperatures. They are also equipped with Gorilla Glass displays that are scratch-resistant and can be used with gloves or in wet conditions. Conker tablets run on a Windows or Android operating system and offer a range of features such as GPS, cameras, and 4G connectivity, making them ideal for businesses that require mobility and fieldwork.
Conker rugged tablets offer several benefits to businesses, including increased productivity, reduced downtime, and lower maintenance costs. These tablets can withstand accidental drops, spills, and other incidents that could damage regular tablets, allowing workers to operate without worrying about equipment failures. The rugged design of Conker tablets also makes them suitable for use in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and logistics. Conker tablets are also customizable, allowing businesses to add specific features or software to meet their unique requirements.
With their durability, functionality, and versatility, Conker’s range of rugged tablets are an ideal choice for businesses looking to optimize their operations and improve their bottom line.
Get in touch with us to find the right rugged tablet for your business.
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