Technology and digitisation continue to transform the way utility organisations operate.
As the sector becomes more sophisticated through the adoption of AI, the IoT, big data and analytics and robotics, it’s vital that this technology can provide an uninterrupted, resilient performance while simultaneously safeguarding against cyberattacks.
With 40 years’ experience supporting the utility sector with cutting-edge tech, Durabook understands the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
Versatile adoption of AI and automation
The steady march of AI continues at pace, and increasing numbers of utility customers are exploring the application of AI with ruggedised devices. AI-capable hardware and software technologies are transforming the sector by helping with data analysis to increase workflow productivity and efficiency while reducing business running costs. Durabook is facilitating this trend by providing future-proof AI capable hardware, including its new 14” AI-powered S14I and upgraded Z14I rugged laptops, that are compatible with the software end customers choose to procure and utilise. Automation is also transforming the utility space by combining smart factory processing with AI. By combining AI with diagnosis, quality-check and maintenance capability, rugged devices can self-diagnose, self-check or even self-schedule a maintenance session with minimal human intervention.
Secure functionality through enhanced cyber technology
Utilities are increasingly concerned with security, especially for field workers accessing sensitive business and customer data on the road. However, the latest rugged devices allow staff to communicate quickly, accessing and transmitting critical data safely and securely to avoid data breaches and cyber-attacks. Durabook designs its devices with multi-levels of hardware and software security features, helping users and IT professionals protect sensitive data from falling into the wrong hands. Key features include TPM2.0 with the most updated firmware, support for self-encrypted OPAL SSD for robust data protection, Secured-Core PC and Smart Card readers for an additional layer of access validation. From warehouse drivers to operatives, these measures are designed to maximise cybersecurity across every business function.
Robust and durable cutting-edge technology
With outdoor use in environments where challenging weather becomes a normal user scenario, ruggedness is becoming vital for customers considering field computing devices. To meet this demand, most Durabook devices carry IP 66 rating, protecting them against dust and water ingress, MIL-STD 810H certification and drop resistance of up to six feet, meaning they stand the test of time in any conditions. In addition, Durabook’s R8 rugged tablet, a fanless and yet versatile 8-inch tablet, has also been chosen by various customers as a development base for integration as an outdoor UAV drone controller. Durable and reliable devices reduce the risk of disruption to workflows, lost productivity and the potential for customer service erosion and employee fatigue, which is why leading devices are equipped with the latest Intel®processors and graphics capabilities, such as Intel® Iris® Xe, for an enhanced performance.
Delivering seamless connectivity
Customers across the industry are increasingly demanding real-world, real-time non-interrupted high-speed audiovisual and multi-sensing data collections and transmissions. The nature of indoor and outdoor use of rugged computers allows the user to have seamless connectivity whether they use their devices inside an office workspace or outdoor environment. Intel’s latest Wi-FI 6E/Wi-Fi 7 technology, with increased data bandwidth and multi-channel connection, provides users with secure, high-speed connectivity while 4G/LTE, 5G connection allows reliable high-speed data connection in all-weather outdoor environments. As the application of UAV drone technology continues to expand in every industry sector, an emerging technology of LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite communication with global high-speed internet connectivity is increasingly in demand, providing anytime-anywhere global data connectivity.
Utility procurement teams face pressure to show transparent approaches to delivering long term solutions that meet customer demands in an efficient, sustainable way. As a key player in the rugged tech industry, Durabook will continue to work with customers and industry technology leaders to investigate, evaluate and adopt these new technology trends into future products and roadmaps.
