ruggedized PC - Computer Definition
A portable computer designed for hazardous duty such as found in police, fire, military and industrial applications. Commanding a price premium, they are essential in harsh environments but also advantageous in the everyday world where laptops are often dropped and damaged. Semi-Rugged Vs. Fully Rugged A semi-rugged computer withstands harsh temperatures as well as extreme vibration such as in a vehicle riding over rough terrain. It can also handle a certain amount of water on the keyboard. Semi-rugged laptops are typically regular laptops with better cases, rubber-mounted hard drives and spill-proof keyboards. Built with custom parts, a fully ruggedized PC, also called an "ultra-rugged PC," can be left out in the rain all night and be dropped three or more feet onto a cement floor. It may also offer a removable disk or solid state drive for security. See ruggedized drive.