The Windows Mobile devices listed in this section include hardware and software features that support industrial or vertical niche enterprise uses. They are more expensive than consumer-grade devices. The specific version of the Pocket PC operating system and built-in suite of Microsoft applications tends to be less important for ruggedized/vertical niche users. Generally, these devices are purchased in quantity and used for a specific purpose within a company. We only list pros and cons common to all ruggedized devices.
Pros (common to all ruggedized devices)
- Built to withstand drops, moisture, dust, other extreme conditions.
- Most have built-in keyboards or numeric keypads for data entry.
- High-capacity batteries (and other options) provide longer use between charges.
- Barcode/card readers (optional or built-in) available for data capture.
- Wireless capability (optional or built-in).
Cons (common to all ruggedized devices)
- Heavier than consumer Pocket PCs.
- Much more expensive than consumer Pocket PCs.
- May include a limited subset of Microsoft Pocket PC applications.
- May be based on older versions of the Pocket PC software (not as much of an issue for this type of device).
Users of ruggedized devices
- Need a rugged device for a specific application (inventory control, service, etc.) in a non-office environment (i.e. a shop floor, a factory or outdoors).
- Also need or use the basic capabilities of a Pocket PC.
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