Study Predicts Strong Demand for "Rugged" Computers
A study by Venture Development Corp. (VDC) finds world sales of the computers totaled $454.4 million in 2000 and are expected to grow by 10.3 percent annually during the next 5 years.
VDC defines a "fully rugged" mobile computer as one that meets or exceeds the MIL-STD-810F testing standard for environmental engineering. To meet the standard, a computer must operate in blowing sand and rain, and survive a 48-inch drop. The U.S. Armed Forces are increasingly relying on rugged computers for planning strike missions and covert operations.