Battery Management: Good For Your Business and Your Bottom Line

Device battery management has become a culturally ubiquitous phenomenon. Nearly everyone has devices, from mobile phones to smartwatches, tablets, and laptops, but not everyone knows how to manage their battery life effectively. That’s not your problem unless it’s your equipment. Mobile data collection, especially fieldwork, requires power that lasts throughout the day. Do you have a plan to maximize not just charging life, which is how long a battery lasts after each charge, but also battery life, the number of healthy charging cycles a battery can handle before needing replacement?

battery life

They are connected and inseparable, and if you invest in rugged technology, having it power down or “fail” due to power loss from tired batteries impacts the operation.

Smart Charging Habits can double battery lifespan by reducing cycle wear and preventing thermal damage. Limit charges to 80% to minimize cell stress. Avoid full discharges below 20% or overcharging. Use only manufacturer-approved chargers and charge at room temperature (avoid temperatures below 0°C/32°F or above 40°C/104°F). For storage, keep at 40-50% in a cool, dry place.

Regular Maintenance and Calibration can ensure accurate charge readings and identify issues early, maintaining 95%+ performance accuracy. Calibrate every 2-3 months by fully charging, then discharging to 0%, and finally recharging. Clean the battery contacts with alcohol wipes. Run diagnostic tools (e.g., Dell Power Manager or Windows Battery Report) to monitor the battery’s health. Update the firmware/OS for efficiency fixes.

You can also manage power settings to optimize long-shift runtime and minimize temperature extremes when possible. Leaving them in a vehicle in direct sunlight accelerates degradation; for optimal results, try to charge them at a stable or room temperature.

    • Battery health monitoring: Use built-in diagnostics to track charge cycles and proactively replace degrading batteries.
    • Efficient processors: Choose devices with low-power, high-performance CPUs (e.g., ARM or Intel vPro platforms).
    • Adaptive brightness: Automatically adjust screen brightness based on ambient light to reduce power draw.
    • CPU throttling: Enable performance profiles that scale processor speed depending on workload.
    • Peripheral control: Disable unused radios (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS) and ports when not in use.
    • Temperature-aware charging: Avoid charging in extreme hot or cold environments that degrade battery chemistry.
    • Smart charging accessories: Use ruggedized docking stations or vehicle chargers designed to regulate voltage
    • Sealed enclosures: Prevent dust, water, and vibration from damaging the battery or connectors.
    • Field-ready power sources: Carry portable, rugged power banks or solar chargers for remote operations

Contact one of our experts if you are interested in learning more about all the ways to help extend charge times and battery life. They won’t all be ideal for your operation, but at least a few of them will. It won’t cost you anything, and you could end up saving money by extending the life of your batteries and reducing lost time in the field or on the floor.

 

Why Durability Matters: The Case for Rugged Devices in Extreme Conditions

In industries where uptime and reliability are mission-critical, device durability is more than a convenience—it is essential. Standard consumer laptops and tablets are not designed to withstand the environmental stresses faced in construction, field services, oil and gas, defense, transportation, and emergency response. Rugged devices, however, are purpose-built for these conditions, providing a distinct advantage in performance, safety, and long-term value.

Engineered for Harsh Environments

Rugged laptops and tablets undergo MIL-STD-810 testing to confirm their resistance to shock, vibration, and repeated drops. Many also achieve IP ratings for protection against dust, water, and humidity. This engineering ensures they remain functional in environments ranging from deserts and offshore rigs to arctic conditions, where standard devices are often prone to overheating, freezing, or system failure.

Reliable Performance in Mission-Critical Operations

Rugged devices are optimized for field performance, with extended operating temperature ranges, reinforced components, and high-visibility displays that remain usable in direct sunlight. Features such as glove- and wet-touch compatibility, hot-swappable batteries, and expanded I/O options allow seamless operation in situations where failure is not an option. Enhanced connectivity—via 5G, LTE, GPS, and advanced antenna systems—further supports teams working in remote or mobile environments.

Total Cost of Ownership Advantages

While rugged devices usually require a higher initial investment, they offer a significantly lower total cost of ownership (TCO). Standard consumer devices often need frequent repairs or replacements when exposed to tough conditions, leading to unexpected downtime and higher maintenance expenses. Rugged systems improve lifecycle performance, decrease field disruptions, and provide measurable ROI through increased reliability.

Supporting Safety and Productivity

In high-stakes industries, technology failures can jeopardize worker safety and disrupt vital operations. Rugged devices help reduce these risks by providing reliable access to digital tools, data, and communication. Their ability to function under pressure directly boosts operational efficiency, safety for workers, and overall mission success.

Conclusion

Durability is more than just a feature — it’s a critical foundation for productivity and safety in tough environments. Rugged laptops and tablets surpass standard consumer-grade devices by offering resilience, dependability, and long-term cost savings. For organizations working in extreme conditions, investing in rugged technology is not optional; it’s necessary.

Not sure where to start? Reach out to one of our experts!