Wireless Trends for 2014 #3 – Growth of Rugged Two Way Radios & Devices
In 2014, our lives aren’t going to get any less demanding, nor will we communicate any less. In fact, our two way radios and mobile devices are only going to become more important as we continue to take them everywhere we go, and demand they function optimally in a range of conditions – particularly in potentially hazardous work environments. As such, 2014 will see a rise in the demand for (and availability of) rugged devices.
Demanding Work Environments
Working hard is one thing, but working hard in a harsh environment is another altogether. Work sites that rely on two way radio communications include marine-based work, on oil rigs, in the woods, in the middle of a field, at construction sites, on disaster sites and beyond.
This work demands not only two way radios and mobile devices that can keep up, but ones that can withstand some pretty harsh conditions – including blazing heat, freezing cold, constant shock and vibration as well as water, dust, sand and humidity. These situations call for rugged two way radios that are built to work under the most extreme conditions.
Best of Both Worlds
Traditionally, choosing a rugged device might have meant sacrificing some of the advanced functionality we experience with our more consumer-focused devices. However, today, we expect advanced reliability, security and performance from every device – and that means we no longer want to choose between consumer grade devices and rugged devices that suit more demanding work environments.
Fortunately, tremendous progress has been made in this regard, and 2014 will continue to see more options become available that combine the technical capabilities of consumer devices with rugged durability.
Putting the Money Where the Talk is
In many industries, reliable, industrial-grade devices are essential. As the average consumer-grade device lasts only between 12 and 18 months, having to replace equipment so often leads to increasing maintenance and repair costs, not to mention losses in productivity and potentially employee safety.
Rugged devices are designed specifically for harsh working environments. Most rugged mobile devices are put through extensive testing to ensure they can withstand long-term exposure to dust, water, tumbles, drops to concrete and more. Additionally, options like RFID readers, card swipes, vehicle mounting solutions and more are typically built into rugged devices, eliminating the need for additional costly upgrades.
Motorola Radios Deliver Rugged Reliability
The increasing demand for rugged devices in 2014 will benefit businesses looking to boost productivity through reliable communication and gain cost efficiencies through more durable, longer-lasting devices that are fit for the job. Motorola delivers on the promise of rugged power and connectivity, allowing workers in the field to maintain constant connectivity, while operating in almost any hazardous environment.
//