Choosing technology for a utility crew starts with understanding the work. A device might look like a good fit on paper, but how does it perform when a technician needs to review an infrastructure map beside a service truck, complete an inspection, or update a work order on-site?
For utilities evaluating rugged laptops and tablets, a hands-on trial can help answer those questions before a larger purchase. It gives crews a chance to assess the device in familiar conditions and gives decision-makers feedback from the people who will use it.
Here are five areas worth evaluating before choosing your next field device.
A screen that looks clear in the office may be harder to read outside. During a trial, take the device to the places where your crews normally work and evaluate it in sunlight, shade, and changing light.
Can technicians read map details without constantly repositioning the screen? Are buttons and forms easy to navigate? If crews wear gloves, test touchscreen operation with the gloves and settings they expect to use.
Pay attention to handling, too. A device should be comfortable to hold, carry, and operate while completing routine tasks. Small frustrations can become significant when repeated throughout a shift.
A rugged device needs to support the software your operation depends on. Before selecting a model or configuration, identify your application requirements, including operating system, processing needs, ports, and any connected equipment.
Then evaluate representative tasks using your approved software and test environment:
If crews work in areas with limited coverage, evaluate how your applications handle interrupted connections and whether their offline features meet your needs. That behavior depends on the software and connectivity setup as well as the device.
Utility crews often move between vehicle-based work and tasks outside the cab. Your trial should reflect that routine.
For a rugged laptop, evaluate whether the keyboard and screen layout suit the work crews complete in the truck. For a rugged tablet, consider how easily technicians can carry it to an asset, review information, and enter updates.
If vehicle docking is part of your operation, assess a compatible mounting and docking setup alongside the device. Consider placement, access, charging, and the process of removing and returning the computer.
Rugged.One can help you explore Getac devices along with mounting, docking, and mobile connectivity options. Evaluating those requirements together helps you plan a setup around the crew’s workflow.
Battery needs vary with the applications, screen brightness, connectivity, and accessories used throughout the day. Rather than relying solely on published estimates, evaluate runtime under a representative workload.
Start with a charged device and track its use during a typical shift. Note when charging becomes necessary and whether that timing fits the crew’s schedule.
Consider the practical questions:
The goal is to establish a workable charging routine before deployment.
Include the people who will use the device every day. Have them complete familiar tasks, then ask specific questions about the experience.
Was the screen easy to read? Was entering information straightforward? Did the device feel comfortable to carry? Did anything make a routine task take longer?
A simple scorecard can help you compare feedback across users. Rate screen visibility, application performance, handling, battery runtime, and overall ease of use. Record the conditions and configuration used so the results have useful context.
That feedback can help you choose between a laptop and tablet, identify needed accessories, and uncover training or setup requirements before a wider rollout.
A spec sheet helps narrow your options. Testing a device during everyday utility work helps you make a more informed decision.
Rugged.One’s 30-day Getac demo program gives your team an opportunity to evaluate a rugged laptop or tablet against your field requirements. Bring your applications, your routine tasks, and your crew’s feedback into the process.
Tell us how your team works and what you need from a field device. We’ll help identify a Getac model to evaluate and discuss the setup your operation requires.
Ready to put rugged to the test? Contact Rugged.One at www.Rugged.One to request your 30-day demo.