Military Specs - MIL-STD-810G
What is MIL-STD-810G?
The MIL-STD-810 standard is a series of lab tests designed by the United States Military that ensures a piece of equipment, in our case a rugged tablet or rugged case, is built well enough to perform in harsh environments.
The drop test portion of MIL-STD-810G is what tablet vendors such as MobileDemand complete to prove that the device will be fully functional even after enduring a series of drops from a certain height. This MIL-STD 810G certification is credible and applicable across all industries, not just the military.
Every new rugged tablet and rugged case created by MobileDemand is subjected to a drop test which are possibly the highest standards in the industry. Whereas most rugged tablet vendors will use up to 5 total devices to pass all 26 drops (allowed by MIL-STD-810G standards), MobileDemand uses only 1. This allows engineers to clearly determine the best possible design of the device to withstand the greatest impact. The end result is a higher quality product with a longer life in the field. One occasion, when testing for extreme ruggedness, MobileDemand used more than one device in this test. An example is when we tested our rugged case for iPad 9.7-inch. That case was dropped 26 times each from heights of 7-, 8-, 9-, and 10-feet. While a single MobileDemand rugged case survived every drop, it was necessary to use 3 iPads to complete the tests. Three iPads for drops from four different heights - still few than 5 devices allowed by MIL-STD-810G.
Some companies will state "MIL-STD-810G" and not specify a drop height. Be careful if you decide to purchase from those companies as their products may not be as rugged as you think. With all MobileDemand products, we will note the exact drop height and provide video proof.
Why Does MIL-STD-810G Matter?
The important point here is to understand that a MIL spec certification does not necessarily mean that the device could withstand battlefield conditions (meaning in combat or on the frontlines). In the consumer business world, these MIL tests, especially the "drop test", are designed to measure the durability of equipment during load/unloading and transportation.That is why consumer devices look radically different from their military and rugged counterparts that have added protection.
What is a drop test?
26 consecutive drops from specified height
Using up to 5 operating units
Lands once on each corner, face and edge
Tablet must be fully functional at end of drop test
Tablet must have no significant damage