The Rugged Data Collector Debate

True North | Winter 2021

Do you bring your own device (BYOD) or invest in a ruggedized device? An age-old question that continues to be asked when investing in a field data collection solution. Price seems to be the starting point of this conversation as recreational devices are available at a lower price when compared to ruggedized professional devices as they are often 2-4 times more expensive. Then you look at the specifications on the recreational devices available and many offer a decent rugged rating (i.e. water resistant to waterproof, etc.). You add a protective case, and you ask yourself, “why would I consider a ruggedized device at a higher cost?”. Rugged devices do offer a lot more protection, but is it worth the extra cash? Battery life seems to be the number one limiting factor on recreational devices, second to operating temperature range (but really, do you work at plus/minus 30?) and third, lack of a daylight readable screens on some recreational tablets. Operating system is another detail not to be overlooked. Rugged devices offer Windows and Android operating systems, so if you want iOS, you will have to resign yourself to adding a rugged case and living with some of the previously mentioned limitations. Microsoft typically releases patch updates, but on the Android OS, you are often limited to the version it comes with as there is not an option to upgrade in most cases. With Android OS/iOS, you are looking at a 3-5-year lifespan versus the typical 5-7 years with Windows OS, so it's also worth considering the backwards compatibility of your mobile data collection software.

It really boils down to your requirements, are you a fair weather data collector that jumps in and out of your vehicle to collect a few points here and there? Or are you out collecting data all day, rain, or shine… or are you working in remote areas where charging a battery is challenging? Or are you working in extremely rugged conditions? … most importantly what is the cost of your data collector going down in the field? Lost data/re-collection? Lost time/project delays? With remote project locations, the cost of a site re-visit can put your project into the negative with travel costs, accommodations, and additional wages. Most recreational devices are not repairable. This begs the final question, what is your risk tolerance on a project? There is not typically a one size fits all, so depending on your project requirements you may want to consider a mixed fleet of equipment.

Hopefully, the above points have shed some light on a few of the parameters to consider when answering the question, do you bring your own device or invest in a ruggedized device? Make sure you select a device that meets your true requirements and do not let the initial price mask the actual cost of replacement.

Brock Kingston
Senior Account Manager, MGIS Business
Cansel