As one of the leading rugged computer providers, Getac offers extensive rugged computing product lines and serves a wide range of vertical markets.
Advances in remote field services are reshaping business operations everywhere, and the industrial sector is no exception. From oil & gas to utilities and defence, field service professionals face unique challenges that demand robust and reliable technology solutions. This article explores the critical role of field service operations in rugged industries, the evolving challenges faced by field service professionals, and how Getac rugged solutions are revolutionising the way they go about their day-to-day duties.
Field service workers typically operate outside of traditional office settings, in environments ranging from remote facilities and infrastructure to inside customers’ homes. Consequently, the ability to effectively manage these workers remotely is central to an organisation’s overall operational efficiency.
Field service management solutions can be used to support remote work by enhancing field workers’ efficiency and productivity. They also enable a seamless transition from traditional paper-based methods to fully digital solutions, while simultaneously addressing the evolving expectations of modern customers.
A great example is the use of mobile workforce management in the utilities industry. Many utilities organisations have large field workforces tasked with the routine maintenance of customers’ equipment (e.g. boilers), as well as dealing with any emergency callouts that may arise. Mobile workforce management technology helps to optimise appointment scheduling by assigning field service workers to customers based on their real-time location and level of expertise. Doing so means more appointments are fulfilled per day and a greater number of first-time fixes are achieved for customers – a win-win for all involved.
However, remote work in rugged environments isn’t without its challenges. Many field service professionals often operate in difficult environments and adverse weather conditions, so they need technology that’s built with these kinds of use cases in mind. This is where rugged technology can quickly prove invaluable.
Remote field service management solutions enhance efficiency and productivity by empowering field workers to perform their tasks effectively from any location.
Field service work covers a huge range of tasks, from installing, maintaining, and repairing equipment, to performing maintenance, repairs, inspections, data collection, and reporting. These roles demand technology that can keep up with the rigours of the field. Some common challenges include:
The Getac F110 fully rugged tablet has long been a trusted companion for field service professionals and the next gen F110 brings a host of improvements and upgrades designed to meet the evolving needs of the rugged industries. The next gen Getac F110 also offers enhanced durability, connectivity, and performance, making it an ideal tool for remote and/or challenging environments. Some of the key features and enhancements of the next gen Getac F110 include:
The next-gen Getac F110 offers significant upgrades, including improved durability, connectivity, and performance. Designed for rugged industries, it is ideal for remote and challenging environments.
The next gen Getac F110 is equipped with a 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i5/i7 processors, delivering exceptional computing power on the go. Whether you’re running complex applications or processing large datasets, the F110 ensures smooth and efficient performance, helping to optimise business operations and enhance coordination among field-based personnel.
The tablet features an 11.6" FHD display with Getac's proprietary LumiBond® technology. With a brightness of up to 1,200 nits, the screen remains readable even in direct sunlight, while the capacitive multi-touch screen supports touch, glove, and pen modes for incredible versatility in the field.
Staying connected in remote locations is critical for field service professionals. The next gen F110 offers multiple advanced connectivity options, including Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211, Bluetooth 5.3, and optional 5G Sub-6 with integrated GPS. Dual SIM capabilities also enable seamless network switching for uninterrupted connectivity.
Data security is a top priority for field service professionals. The F110 includes enterprise-grade security features such as TPM 2.0, optional Intel® vPro® technology, and Windows Hello face-authentication. Additional options include HF RFID readers, fingerprint readers, and smart card readers.
The Getac F110 is built to withstand harsh environments and weather conditions. It is MIL-STD-810H and IP66 certified, making it resistant to dust, water, and extreme temperatures. The tablet is also drop-resistant up to six feet, ensuring it can handle the rough and tumble of field operations.
Getac Assist is an all new, fully rugged remote expert solution designed to support field-based workers with advanced capabilities in knowledge transfer, remote guidance, inspection, training, safety, and compliance.
With Getac Assist, remote workers can use the powerful new Getac Assist Camera to stream live video directly from the worksite, viewable securely via Getac’s purpose-built browser-based software platform. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) around the world can then log into the platform, where they can annotate videos and screenshots from the live stream in real-time, share documents, collaborate with other SMEs, and guide on-site workers through tricky procedures. Not only does this result in improved first-time fix rates, but it also helps reduce downtime, lower support costs, and increase overall operational efficiency across remote workforces.
Getac Assist helps field workers and technicians stream live video from any worksite, viewed securely from multiple locations.
Key features of the Getac Assist solution include:
Unlike traditional remote assistance solutions that require headsets, the Getac Assist Camera is designed to be body-worn or mounted independently using a wide range of secure mounting options. Doing so provides a more stable video stream and ensures the worker's vision remains unobstructed for enhanced situational awareness and safety.
The Getac Assist Camera features both Wi-Fi and 4G LTE capabilities for seamlessly connectivity and boasts up to 10 hours of battery power per charge for long periods of uninterrupted operation.
Featuring a temperature operating range of -20°C to +50°C/-4°F to +122°F, the Getac Assist Camera can be used in a wide range environments and weather conditions. It also meets IP67 and MIL-STD-810H standards and boasts six-feet drop resistance.
When connected to Getac’s purpose-built Assist software, remote workers can collaborate with SMEs anywhere in the world as if they were standing next to them in the field. The platform also features real-time collaborative annotation on live stream video feeds and static images, allowing experts and participants to highlight and discuss specific points during a Getac Assist session.
When integrated correctly, rugged technology can significantly improve field service management operations and greatly improve overall operational efficiency. Here are some practical tips to get started:
Before integrating rugged solutions, assess your specific field service requirements and identify the tasks that will benefit most from the technology, such as data collection, reporting, and real-time communication.
Effectively integrating the Getac F110 into field service management can greatly enhance productivity and streamline operational efficiency.
Ensure that your field service professionals are trained to use the technology effectively. Provide training on key features, such as touchscreen modes, connectivity options, and security measures. Familiarity with the devices will maximise their benefits.
Take advantage of each device’s configurable options and tailor them to your specific needs. For example, consider adding an imager barcode reader to the F110 for inventory management or a smart card reader for secure access.
Regularly monitor the performance of rugged devices and solutions in the field. Gather feedback from your team and identify any areas for improvement. Optimise the device settings and configurations based on real-world usage to ensure maximum efficiency.
Remote field services play an integral role throughout the rugged industries, and as more and more organisations transform from pen-and-paper based processes to fully digital field operations, finding the right tools for the job has become critical. The next gen Getac F110 rugged tablet and Getac Assist remote expert solution are exactly that. Their cutting-edge performance, enhanced connectivity, and durability make them ideal choices for remote and challenging environments.
If you're looking to enhance your field service operations, consider integrating Getac’s rugged solutions into your workflow. For more information, contact our team today. Transform your field operations with the power of rugged technology.
As one of the leading rugged computer providers, Getac offers extensive rugged computing product lines and serves a wide range of vertical markets.
Subscribe below to be kept up to date on the latest industry and technology trends. We will send you a monthly blog round-up direct to your inbox.
