By James Careless, P1 Contributor
When it comes to reliable computer performance in demanding field conditions, there is no doubt that a rugged laptop brand-name computer outperforms a non-rugged personal/business laptop.
The very best rugged brand-name laptops, such as the respected Panasonic Toughbook line, have been certified to withstand drops, vibration and extreme weather conditions by passing specific Military Standard 810 (MIL-STD 810). This is why they cost more than comparably fragile personal/business laptops that are not built to these demanding standards, and definitely not suited for use in the field.
The fact that rugged laptops do cost more is a concern for law enforcement agencies, which is why many are taking a look at lower-cost refurbished rugged laptops. These can be older computers that have come to the end of their lease and been returned to the leasing company by the customer. Refurbished also refers to new computers that had manufacturing/operational issues when purchased new and were returned to the factory for repairs, before being resold again. Buying a brand-name ensures you are getting a known commodity.
If you are considering buying one or more refurbished rugged brand-name laptops, shop around for a vendor who backs these products with a replacement warranty; preferably one year in length. Shorter warranties may be justified if the purchase price is low enough, but never buy any refurbished equipment without a warranty. Also ensure the vendor you are dealing with is reputable. If in doubt, ask for references from their current law enforcement customers.
Inspect the refurbished laptops to ensure their cases and seals are strong, and their screens and keyboards undamaged and fully-functional. Also take a look at their external ports: Are they compatible with any peripherals your department may be using?
Check with your IT department to see which versions of the Windows operating system these older laptops can work with, and which they can’t. The last thing you want is to save a bundle on refurbished rugged laptops, only to discover that they cannot communicate with your network nor use your department’s programs due to their operating system age/version.
Assuming you have covered all of the above points and established which operating systems and capabilities your departmental laptops require, here are 5 good reasons to buy a refurbished rugged laptop:
1. Value
Refurbished rugged laptops cost less than new models, and outlast non-rugged personal/business laptops in the field. As long as you purchase refurbished units that are in good shape, warranty-backed, and compatible with your department’s network infrastructure, physical connections and software library, you’ll be able to equip far more officers with rugged laptops for your money than if you buy new.
2. Proven brand-name technology
Buying a reputable refurbished rugged laptop, like a Panasonic Toughbook, gives your officers access to proven, reliable technology. This avoids the risk that can occur by purchasing low-cost no-name laptops in tough-looking cases, which may or may not meet MIL-STD 810 toughness standards.
3. A known commodity
Refurbished rugged brand-name computers have access to substantial after-market support; either from your original vendor or various third-party suppliers. This reduces the cost of servicing and any parts replacement that may eventually be required, such as new hard drives.
4. Interoperable with other law enforcement agencies
The advantage of having rugged brand-name laptops – whether new or refurbished – is that they are most likely to be compatible with the equipment being used by other law enforcement agencies. This can be vitally important during multi-agency response situations and joint field exercises. But it can also be handy when your department is seeking parts from another agency running the same equipment, and vice versa.
5. Great optics
Law enforcement agencies are operating under a microscope. Being able to show fiscal restraint by purchasing refurbished rugged laptops, without compromising officer/operational safety, is a great way to win points with political bosses, the media, and the public. A reputation for fiscal restraint today can pay off down the road, when the department needs to win support for a major (and expensive) purchase.
About the Author
James Careless is a freelance writer with extensive experience covering computer technologies.