The presence of handheld computers helps the industrial operation for data entry, tracking, and operations of field workers, logistics, retail, and other industries that require reliable devices. One type of handheld computer is a rugged handheld which has some functions and advantages.
The functions of a rugged handheld include collecting data to communicating. Moreover, the advantage includes strong durability, increased productivity, and data security.
This article will give you information on rugged handhelds from the definition, functions, advantages they have, and their distinctive features.
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Table of Contents
What is a Rugged Handheld?

Rugged handhelds are handheld computers that have high resistance to extreme weather. These devices are resistant to dust, water, and high and low temperatures, usually marked with IP67 or IP68 certification.
With a robust design, this type of computer can be relied upon for use in heavy industrial areas such as construction sites and mines.
The Functions of Rugged Handheld
The rugged handheld has several functions from collecting data to communication. Here are some of its functions:
- Collecting data: Collecting field data, such as stock, data input, and reporting.
- Inventory management: Assist inventory managers in tracking, receiving, picking, and shipping items.
- Communication: Reliable communication in the field from both voice and data.
The Advantages of Rugged Handheld

The rugged handheld has several advantages from strong durability to increased productivity and data security. Here are some of its main advantages in details:
Strong durability
One of the advantages of the rugged handheld is its strong durability. This device is resistant to water, dust, impact, drops, and resistant to extreme temperatures.
Usually, this type of handheld computer comes with IP67 and IP68 certifications that are resistant to dust and water. With a robust design, these devices are also resistant to impact, vibration, and can withstand falls from a certain height.
What’s most impressive is the device’s resistance to extreme weather. The device can be used in both high and low temperatures, so it does not hamper workers with specific environmental needs.
Increase productivity
Rugged handhelds have long battery life, reliable connectivity, and fast performance that increase work productivity.
The long battery life makes this device can be used for a long time. This type of handheld computer is also reliable in terms of connectivity as it is equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular for good communication and data transfer needs.
Even though the design is designed for durability, it does not compromise the ability to run applications for work tasks with fast and responsive performance.
Data security
Another advantage of rugged handhelds is their data security capabilities. These devices are equipped with encryption features that ensure that information is kept safe, even when the device is lost. Some devices also come with applications designed to protect sensitive data from external threats.
The Distinctive Features of Rugged Handheld

Here are some distinctive features of rugged handheld:
- Anti-reflective screen: The screen can still be read clearly even under sunlight.
- Large battery: Long-lasting battery power comes from the large battery size capacity.
- High impact and vibration-resistant case: What makes the durability of this device strong is the fact that the case is impact-resistant and resistant to high vibrations.
- Barcode scanner: Commonly used for retail, logistics, and other industries.
- Waterproof camera: Not only is the case water and dust-resistant, the camera is also water and dust-resistant for shooting in extreme conditions.
Those are the definitions, functions, and advantages of a rugged handheld that you need to know. Another thing to note is that handheld computers on the market must pass the certification test from the Directorate General of Digital Infrastructure (DJID).
Rugged handheld regulation is based on the Ministerial Decree (KEPMEN) No. 260 Tahun 2024 and No. 12 Tahun 2025, which requires all radio frequency-based devices, including barcode scanners, to meet specific technical standards before being sold in the country.
With DJID certification, users can feel calm about using a handheld computer device whose quality and security are guaranteed. For manufacturers or importers of handheld computer devices, obtaining certification from DJID is a mandatory step before the device can be officially marketed in Indonesia.
To simplify the certification process, Type Approval Certification Services for ICT Products are available to assist with this process as a reliable solution.
 
					









