Rugged Tablets for Manufacturing – All You Need to Know

A post-pandemic world has brought various challenges for the manufacturing world.
Continued workforce shortage combined with an increase in product demand, maximizing data usage to increase efficiency, and an increasing need for digital technology acceleration have led manufacturers to shift to the utility of rugged tablets.

These rugged tablets for manufacturing are not only portable and interactive, they are multi-functional and more powerful as compared to a conventional computer.

Part 1: Getting to Know Rugged Tablets in Manufacturing First

Rugged tablets can be easily mounted onto forklifts, trolleys, and other equipment, making them ideal for use in manufacturing environments. This feature allows workers to keep their hands free while using the tablet, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of accidents. Owing to the remarkable features of rugged tablets used in manufacturing, their demand has exploded, with the global tablet market expected to hit the $5.3 billion mark by 2026.

Manufacturing organizations are now utilizing industrial tablets for inventory management, data collection, quality assurance, and multiple other applications.

The best industrial tablets used in the manufacturing world are rugged, which means they can function in the toughest of environments and are built for highly resilient performance. Therefore, Manufacturers want to use rugged tablets more now than ever before because they increase workstream efficiency and are extremely handy.

Part 2: The Role of Rugged Tablets in Manufacturing Scenario

Manufacturing companies nowadays have to deal with supply chain issues and other extensive processes that require flawless end-to-end integration.

The role of rugged tablets in the manufacturing scenario can be divided into the following functions:

1. Inventory Control

Inventory is an essential component of any manufacturing company. The rugged tablets for the manufacturing scenario are built with the right inventory management tools, ensuring that the inventory stays under control and parts are distributed efficiently.

They also provide access to real-time data so that every worker remains aware of the product or material running out of stock and can arrange for timely replenishment.

2. Industrial Tablets

Harsh environmental conditions, including shocks, vibrations, humidity, temperature changes, and dust, mostly characterize manufacturing operations. There may even be liquids and chemicals involved.
Industrial or rugged tablets built for manufacturing companies are robust, tough, and sturdy and can withstand all sorts of environmental conditions. With their drop protection, sturdy casing, and rugged frame, they are perfect for working in a manufacturing setting.

3. Resource Monitoring

Rugged tablets for manufacturing industries have different built-in tools, such as barcode scanners and advanced NFC technology, making asset tracking an easy and smooth experience.
Since manufacturing companies have a huge supply chain, these rugged tablets allow efficient resource tracking as they move through different processes and departments.

4. Quality Control

Manufacturing companies need to stay on top of their game, which is impossible if their target market is unsatisfied with their product. Quality control cannot be emphasized enough with so much competition in the manufacturing world.

Rugged tablets are specially designed for such businesses as they have remarkable applications that ensure the products comply with quality control standards. These tablets can provide users with real-time data on whether a product matches the quality control standards.

5. Enhanced Communication

Manufacturing companies tend to perform well when there is a smooth communication process between systems, workers, and customers.

They have very high communication abilities, enabling them to conveniently connect to WiFi, 3G or 4G, or Bluetooth, even when used in harsh environments. This improves the overall work productivity.

6. Built to Fit the Work Environment

Manufacturing environments, especially those in the mining, energy, oil, and gas sectors, work in extremely harsh conditions. Whatever the work conditions are, employees constantly need access to real-time data and timely communication with different departments.

Rugged tablets are built to function accordingly in these harsh environments. Even if the working environment has extreme temperatures, drops, vibrations, shocks, water, or dust, rugged tablets can still provide optimal results.

7. Use of 3D Technology to Improve Efficiency

They are robust and durable and use 3D technology efficiently, such as 3D camera imaging technology. Workers in the manufacturing industry can now use this technology with ease. They can integrate this technology with different operations during the manufacturing process.

Part 3: Most Durable Field Work Tablets for Manufacturing Industries

To take full advantage of the features of rugged tablets built for manufacturing industries, it is important to make a wise choice.

Here are our top 3 most durable fieldwork tablets available for the manufacturing industries.

1 Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 Rugged Tablet

Samsung has one of the best rugged tablet manufacturers. The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 perfectly balances value and ruggedness. Sized at 5x8.5x0.4 inches and weighing 14.8 ounces, it comes in a rubber case with a holder for its S pen.

It is not for everyone and is aimed at people working in an environment with harmful elements. It has an IP68 waterproof ability, can withstand drops from up to 1m, and can operate in the most extreme temperatures.

2 Vanquisher Ultra Rugged Tablet

One of the most durable and reliable rugged tablets on the market, the Vanquisher Rugged Tablet is a must-have for people working in the manufacturing industry. It boasts a powerful internal processor with a long-lasting battery.

Moreover, it has barcode scanning capabilities, making it a perfect choice for warehouse workers and power users.

3 Lenovo 10e Rugged Tablet

With a weight of merely just a little above one pound, this rugged tablet is just about as mobile as a tablet can get, making it perfect for usage in a manufacturing environment.

Due to its rugged texture, it may have more weight than a typical tablet built for a common consumer. It is extra tough, featuring bumper edges and crack-resistant glass. It also has a 16-hour battery life, meant to make it last an entire workday.

Part 4: Common Issues of Managing Rugged Tablets in Manufacturing

While rugged tablets provide a bundle of benefits for the manufacturing world, some common issues may be faced by users while using them.

1. Device Issues and Repair

One of the greatest problems in using rugged tablets is remaining connected to them and solving issues remotely. Since manufacturing involves working in extreme conditions, especially in the mining and energy sector, there may be potential issues with rugged devices during work outside.

2. Application Management and Updates

For many businesses, it's hard to manage a large number of devices efficiently and effectively. It's difficult and time-consuming to stay productive when managing a large amount of mobile devices.

3. Data Security and Privacy

The usage of rugged tablets may also pose a risk of potential data privacy and security issues in the manufacturing world. The users may not be able to pay adequate attention to safeguarding sensitive information and data placed on these rugged devices. The unauthorized entertainment application or network access may lead to serious damage to the company. Without any restriction or protection, your devices are exposed to security risks.

Part 5: Streamlining Rugged Tablet Management with the Best MDM Solution

All of the issues above and many others can be effectively managed with the help of AirDroid Business, which is one of the best MDM solutions on the market. AirDroid Business is an all-in-one Android device management, it provides the following benefits, particularly focusing on providing solutions for the common issues in rugged tablet management in manufacturing discussed before.

Part 6: Best Practices for Implementing Airdroid Business MDM Solutions

Implementing an effective MDM policy comes with various benefits for your manufacturing business. AirDroid Business is an efficient MDM solution that implements best practices.

1 Security Management

AirDroid Business can enhance devices' application and security management for rugged tablets. Usually,it's difficult to stay productive when managing a large amount of mobile devices.
However, AirDroid Business MDM are able to automate the process of installing applications and keeping them updated. More, you can also use it to uninstall apps, delete app data, configure app update rules and app permissions.

2 Kiosk Mode

AirDroid Business's Kiosk Mode allows IT to further solve rugged device security issues by locking Android tablets into a single app mode or multi-app mode, whitelisting websites. This ensures that irrelevant personnel cannot access confidential data without authorized access. It also reduces issues such as unnecessary IT workload, workplace distractions, and exposure to security risks.

3 Policy

Those who have worked in the manufacturing industry know that deliberate data leaks, lost or stolen devices, and misuse of corporate resources are all real issues. AirDroid Business's policy provides a wider range of settings, including password management, compliance management, etc. By implementing a security policy, business can improve device security and prevent data breaches or leaks.

4 Remote Control

Manufacturing companies have a lot going on, and onsite support may become very difficult and time-consuming. AirDroid Business allows IT administrators with the ability to remotely troubleshoot issues on devices. This can significantly reduce downtime and improve productivity, as users do not have to wait for in-person assistance.

Wrapping Up

The right rugged tablet and the perfect AirDroid Business MDM solution can help businesses streamline manufacturing operations, improving overall workforce productivity and eliminating problems. You can garner the maximum benefits of rugged tablets in your manufacturing plant, along with AirDroid's all-in-one device management capabilities. This will ensure that your manufacturing success reaches the height of success.

FAQs about Rugged Tablets in Manufacturing

1. What are the benefits of using rugged tablets in manufacturing?

Maverick

Using rugged tablets in manufacturing has multiple benefits, including inventory control, quality management, enhanced communication, and resource monitoring.

2. How do you manage and secure rugged tablets in a manufacturing environment?

Maverick

An effective MDM solution such as the AirDroid business is the best possible solution for the security management of rugged tablets for a manufacturing environment.

3. Can rugged tablets be customized for specific manufacturing needs?

Maverick

If the right rugged tablet is chosen, it can provide customized solutions for different specific manufacturing needs.