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Implementing a mobile, integrated POS device has become increasingly popular among retail stores, restaurants, and hospitality businesses. From seamlessly connecting associates to updating inventory in real-time, the technology opens up a world of opportunity, but how do you know if this powerful sales and productivity tool is right for your business?

As the world stands today, social distancing is making a huge impact in the ways restaurants are able to operate. Depending on regional restrictions or preference, restaurants may be closing their dining rooms and serving customers through take-out or delivery. However, this scenario may cause new issues to arise when it comes to completing the payment and ordering process. Customers aren't able to enter into the restaurant to complete a payment causing servers to travel back and forth. Others may opt not to pay online or through an app. That's where a mobile POS system comes in.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA – Feb 18, 2021—MobileDemand, provider of rugged tablets and mobile computing solutions for enterprise productivity, today announced the winners of the 2020 MobileDemand Partner of the Year Awards. The annual awards recognize MobileDemand partners who demonstrate commitment, expertise and innovation in their support for MobileDemand.

MobileDemand recently launched the first ever rugged tablet, integrated with a magnetic stripe reader (MSR). Available for both the Flex 10A with Android and the Flex 10B, this is the first MSR to be designed and integrated for rugged tablets, setting a new standard across the mobile computing industry. That's all exciting, but how does our integrated MSR work?

Aiding retail, restaurant and healthcare industries, rugged tablets now offer next-level mobility by enabling frontline team members to take secure mobile payments, fulfill off-premises orders, and collect crucial data from a single device.

For enterprises in the oil, gas, mining and manufacturing industries, it's vital to have tablet computers that are Class 1 Division 2 (C1D2) certified - meaning that if any explosive substance is abnormally present in the atmosphere, the tablets will NOT create any sort of electrical arc or spark that would ignite the substance.

Ruggedized mobile computers can cost several thousand dollars, making them unaffordable or economically unfeasible for many potential customers. The MobileDemand xTablet Flex 10 models that we're examining in this review, on the other hand, start at just US$495. That's literally a fraction of what most of the leading rugged tablets cost. How is this possible? It's because a few years ago, MobileDemand added to their lineup of heavy-duty rugged tablets a series of entry-level devices for customers who need more ruggedness than consumer-grade tablets can deliver, but at a price that is not prohibitive. The entry-level line began with the original xTablet Flex 8 and 10, and today includes both a Windows and an Android version of Flex 10, as well as a smaller budget handheld. In this report we're providing a comprehensive update on the current Flex 10 tablets available from MobileDemand. How can MobileDemand sell a rugged tablets at such low prices? They do it by packaging and pre-assembling standard "white box" Windows and Android tablets with well conceived shock-absorbing cases with protective bumpers and a carry handle. And also scratch-proof screen protectors and other touches and accessories essential to rugged tablets. So instead of having to search for a case that may or may not do the job, MobileDemand offers economy-priced tablets combined with a heavy-duty case designed by experts in rugged Tablet PCs. All for US$495 for an Android 9 version, and US$595 for one with Windows 10 Professional. Even though third party protective cases are available for most handhelds and tablets (who doesn't instantly need one for today's fragile and wafer-thin consumer electronics), MobileDemand is one of very few suppliers of rugged tablets that also offers inexpensive versions packaged with a case. Which is surprising. Ever since Apple legitimized the tablet form factor a decade ago with the iPad, tablets have become an integral part of our lives, selling in the hundreds of millions. Inherently rugged tablets, however, only peripherally benefitted from that tablet bonanza. There has been debate in the rugged industry for years as to the merits of putting consumer tech in a case. MobileDemand decided to find out for itself, and apparently it worked for them; they've offered the Flex line since 2014.

First impression matters, and the xTablet T1180 certainly makes a very good one. Whereas the Flex 10B is a generic tablet in a case, the T1180 is a true rugged design both inside and out. It looks and feels like a serious tool for the job, a rugged tablet that was designed from the ground up to handle the bumps and grind and drops that come with work in the field.

Transportation and logistics industry professionals know the importance of providing efficient and accurate operations. From drivers, fleet managers, and loading specialists, rugged tablets have transformed every aspect of the industry, saving time, labor, fuel, and ultimately revenue. Learn about the benefits of investing in rugged tablets for delivery processes below.

For law enforcement officers and first responders, instant access to mission critical data and real-time connectivity is crucial. That's why rugged tablets have become a preferred platform for law enforcement applications. They offer mobility, functionality, connectivity, and lightweight ruggedness, providing officers with the ultimate collaboration tool.

Nothing is more irritating than when you’re trying to get work done and you notice the battery on your device is almost out of fuel. A dead device can send your productivity into a tailspin that could cost numerous productive hours. Fortunately, there’s a solution that can keep your device running: hot-swappable batteries.

From receiving to picking and staging to loading, warehouses need systems that can handle complex data collection. Rugged tablets enable your operation to run at maximum productivity with improved inventory accuracy and boosted labor efficiency. Here are our top three benefits of rugged tablets for data capture in warehouses.

Located in east central Missouri and 65 miles southwest of St. Louis, the town of Sullivan has a population of approximately 10,000 citizens and is served and protected by 16 sworn police Officers along with 7 civilian employees.

With the upfront costs of investment in rugged tablets, it may be tempting to purchase consumer-grade tablets and equip them with durable, ruggedized cases. While this might be the right choice for certain applications, tablets with cases may not always make the cut. Here we look at the differences between rugged tablets and rugged cases.

Accidents happen, especially in industries that use rugged tablets. That's why MobileDemand offers the xProtect Service Plan to take your tablet protection to the next level. Plus, every MobileDemand rugged tablet includes a limited manufacturer’s warranty, and we offer service for retired MobileDemand products.

When looking to invest in mobile technology, many companies are drawn towards consumer-grade tablets. This is no surprise, as they are upwards of half the price of a rugged, enterprise grade tablet. Companies may be willing to take the added expense of having to replace the outdated tablets every few years rather than pay the higher upfront cost of an enterprise grade tablet. However, simply comparing the initial cost of the devices can be deceiving. The upfront and replacement costs are not nearly as concerning as the costs of a consumer grade device failure. In fact, more than 90% of the total cost of ownership (TCO) of a consumer grade tablet comes after the initial purchase*.

In order for your business to get the maximum return on your rugged tablet investment, you need to make sure the solution truly meets the needs of your business. Did you ensure all needed add-ons are available with the solution you chose? Are others able to be added if your daily operations shift?

In winter or cold climates, ice and snow won’t be the only thing that may pose as a problem to your tablets. If you work out in the field, consumer grade technology, designed for stable and indoor climates, won’t last long in the frigid environment. The wrong equipment can lead to damaged or ruined hardware, lengthy downtime, increased total cost of ownership, and unproductive workers - ultimately resulting in lost potential revenue. That's where enterprise grade, rugged tablets come in.

Many electronic devices claim things such as “water resistant” or “water proof.” However, how do you know if they are what they actually claim to be? That’s where IP ratings come in.

A rugged tablet manufacturer doesn't get to just include the word 'rugged' on their products and call it a day. Rugged tablets are put through strenuous testing and must meet certain performance guidelines in order to truly be considered rugged by industry standards. The rugged tablet industry has adopted testing standards developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the U.S. military (MIL-STD 810G), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), among other organizations. Tablets are tested against vibration and tumbling, extreme temperatures, humidity and liquids, and drops.

Not all work takes place in an office. Many businesses' daily operations occur in less-than-ideal conditions, especially dirty jobs in harsh industries. For frontline workers in mining, oil and gas, construction, or even agriculture, consumer grade devices just won't cut it. Rugged and sealed tablets are designed from the ground up to meet MIL-STD-810g, IP65, and C1D2 standards to ensure worker safety while reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.

For manufacturing and warehouse operations, being able to mount a rugged tablet to a forklift can greatly increase worker productivity. Before you purchase a rugged tablet and mounting system, there are some important things to take into account. Here are our top 5 considerations.

Having complete screen visibility is crucial for frontline workers, but an intense glare or a shattered screen can halt work on the spot. A shattered screen may take your tablet out of commission for days when it needs to be sent in for repair. That's why MobileDemand offers the ultimate addition to your rugged tablets: an anti-glare screen protector.

Say hello to the new and improved xTablet T8650. The innovative 8-inch rugged Windows tablet is known for being feature rich, rugged, value priced, and designed to enhance worker productivity. Today, it boasts several feature upgrades to help you get more work done in less time.

For warehouse operations, efficiency and productivity plays a huge role in customer satisfaction and improvement in the overall bottom line. Any extra time a worker wastes on an inefficient system is valuable time lost, meaning fewer picks or orders filled each day.

Many healthcare facilities are looking to enable their workers with mobile technology solutions. When choosing devices, it is important to understand the benefits of choosing enterprise devices, rather than consumer grade devices. Here are four of our top reasons for choosing enterprise devices in healthcare.

There are many benefits to mounting a rugged tablet to a forklift, truck, or other vehicle. If you decide to mount a tablet, you are faced with many questions, but there is one you must ask yourself: How are you going to supply power to your tablet?

From retail to hospitals and field services to supply chain, barcodes have been used since 1974 to increase efficiency and engagement. They enhance data management and are becoming more dynamic in their usage. There are multiple types of barcodes, however, so how do you know which is the best option for your business?

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused healthcare systems to learn more about isolation and how it affects patients and their quality of care. Not only are patients physically removed from their loved ones, the people they interact with, their care team, present themselves hidden behind sterile personal protective equipment (PPE) that hides nonverbal expressions that would normally offer patients comfort and assurance.

Today's consumers expect an increased level of service and overall enhanced shopping experience from all retailers. While online shopping is increasing in popularity, retailers need to give consumers a reason, outside of their product and service offerings, to come into their store.

Firstline workers all over the world, spanning countless environments and workflows in industries such as manufacturing, retail, restaurants, and more, are using MobileDemand rugged tablets and cases to achieve more. Many of these devices get passed from one person to the next as shifts change throughout the day. Now, more than ever, it is highly recommended that organizations adopt processes for routine cleaning and disinfecting devices for the health and safety of employees and customers.

As the world begins to open up in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are facing new challenges in everyday operations. Even as we find some normalcy, these businesses will ultimately function differently from what we were used to, pre-pandemic.

With businesses and healthcare offices slowly beginning to allow customers back in, many organizations are making the choice to implement 'health' checks for their employees and customers or patients upon entrance to the facility. These screenings may include checking temperature and pulse oximetry, as well as a questionnaire about general health, recent travel, or potential exposure.

Following ruggedness, mobility is one of the most important requirements for companies investing in a rugged tablet for their workplace; but sometimes workers need their tablet to become stationary. Having the option to easily switch from handheld to mounted can increase worker efficiency and productivity in a number of industries including field service, manufacturing, retail, and so many more. That's why MobileDemand offers mounting options for every rugged tablet and case we offer.

Rugged tablets are extremely popular for frontline workers due to their ease of mobility. But sometimes, even the most mobile of workers need to be stationary. The ability to quickly switch from being mobile to stationary can increase productivity by leaps and bounds. If you are considering mounting a tablet, there is a lot to think about, so here are our top questions to ask yourself before making a mounting decision.

Class 1 Division 2, or C1D2, is one of the most important factors to consider when looking for rugged tablets to use in hazardous industries. Any electronics being used in a potentially dangerous environment or around flammable hazards must be C1D2 certified to prevent dangerous explosions and ensure worker safety. But what exactly does C1D2 mean and how do you know if your operation needs certified tablets?

MIL-STD-810G is something you often see referred to when it comes to rugged technology. Companies will claim MIL-STD-810G designed, certified, and tested, but what exactly does that mean? What is MIL-STD-810G?

MobileDemand is pleased to announce the donation of 50,000 surgical masks and 14,000 face shields to Corridor-area hospitals and healthcare providers.