What is an industrial tablet? Definition, features, applications

An industrial rugged tablet is a robust, mobile piece of computer equipment that allows you to work safely and without operational problems in industrial (often harsh) or outdoor environments.

The industrial tablet is rugged, meaning that, unlike a consumer tablet, it can withstand shocks, drops, extreme hot or cold temperatures, water splashes, vibrations, etc.

Industrial tablets are used in many applications and sectors: logistics, transport (cars, lorries, forklift trucks, cranes, etc.), warehouses, construction sites (building, civil engineering, etc.), military environments, factories, production lines, manufacturing, industrial control, public services, energy, etc.

Robustness and certification

Consumer tablets are designed for home or office use. A fall, vibrations or prolonged exposure to high temperatures can be enough to compromise their operation.

Industrial tablets, on the other hand, are IP-certified (minimum IP65 protection rating, water and dust resistance) and MIL-STD-810G/H certified. These certifications guarantee that the tablets can withstand shocks, water splashes, heat and cold.

This robustness is ‘physically’ easy to see, as industrial tablets have reinforced chassis and hardened components, which is not the case with ordinary tablets.

Readability and ergonomics

Industrial tablets feature high-brightness screens (up to 2500 nits) for outdoor use, capacitive touchscreens compatible with gloves and styluses, and reinforced glass that is scratch and impact resistant.

Extended connectivity

Unlike conventional tablets limited to USB and Wi-Fi, industrial tablet models include:

• RS-232/RS-485 ports
• RJ45 Ethernet port
• CAN bus port
• GPIO port
• Multiple USB ports
• HDMI display
• 4G LTE/5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS connectivity
• Optional data readers: 1D/2D barcode, NFC, RFID, fingerprint, etc.

These connections enable the management of PLCs, machine tools, sensors, and SCADA/MES systems.

Customisable operating systems

Industrial tablets support Android, Linux or Windows. They can be customised via OEM/ODM services to integrate with internal software, industrial protocols (Modbus, BACnet, MQTT) or business constraints.

High-performance battery

Industrial tablets are equipped with high-capacity batteries that can reach up to 18,900 mAh in our range. Depending on the model, they can incorporate one (or two) fixed batteries, one (or two) removable batteries, or even hot-swappable batteries that can be replaced while the device is running. These configurations ensure continuous operation and autonomy throughout the day, which is ideal for users who are working.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of examples of possible uses for rugged industrial tablets:

Industrial environment

• Real-time supervision
• Human-machine interface (HMI)
• Production line control
• Predictive maintenance
• Quality control

Logistics and warehouses

• Barcode and RFID reading
• Inventory management
• Picking guidance
• Real-time flow tracking

Outdoors/in the field

• Technical diagnostics
• Data collection
• Reports and documentation
• Geolocation

Rugged tablets differ from conventional tablets in that they can withstand intensive use and harsh environmental conditions. They are designed for professionals and industrial users who require robustness and performance:

• Screens that are readable in direct sunlight for optimal comfort even outdoors.
• Resistance to shocks and vibrations for intensive use in industrial or outdoor environments.
• Water and dust protection (IP standards) for working in all environments.
• Reinforced chassis meeting MIL-STD standards for maximum durability.
• High-capacity batteries, sometimes hot-swappable, for extended use.
• Reliable connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE, 4G LTE/5G) to stay connected at all times.

Questions to ask yourself before purchasing:

• Main use: Will it be used for data collection, machine control, inventory management or field operations?
• Environment: Indoor or outdoor, presence of dust, water, extreme temperatures, frequent shocks or vibrations?
• Battery life: A full day in the field without recharging? Need for removable or hot-swappable batteries?
• Performance: Heavy applications (business, CAD, SCADA, MES) or simple (data entry, barcode reading)?
• Accessories and connectivity: Specific ports (RS232, GPIO, Ethernet), Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, Bluetooth, GPS, integrated scanners or RFID readers?
• Software compatibility: Android, Windows, Linux, and specific business applications.
• Lifespan and support: Component longevity, software updates, availability of spare parts.
• What is your budget, etc.?

Answering these questions will help you select an industrial tablet that is perfectly suited to your needs.

👉 Discover our industrial tablets now and equip your team with reliable, robust and high-performance tools. Contact us.