Key takeaways

• The DT Research tablet is built as rugged as it gets, with IP65, MIL-STD-810H, and MIL-STD-461G certifications.
• The choice of Intel Core i5 and i7 processors offers flexibility when buying the system.
• The tablet is big and rather chunky, far larger than a traditional iPad.

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Let's face it: Your average laptop or tablet is a pretty fragile piece of technology. One accidental drop, and more often than not, something critical -- usually the display -- decides it's had enough. This leaves you with hefty repair bills, a lot of frustration, and potentially some downtime you didn't plan for. 

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This is exactly where ruggedized systems step in to save the day. These devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest environments and the toughest conditions. And when it comes to ruggedized tablets, they don't get much tougher than theDT Research DT312RP 2-in-1 rugged tablet . 

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Research DT312RP 2-in-1 rugged tablet

Over the past few weeks, I've had the chance to put this tablet through its paces in the wilds of the UK. I've tested it in conditions that would make most consumer-grade devices throw in the towel -- rain, mud, and the general unpredictability and chaos associated with the outdoors.

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I've also used it in ways that mimic how ruggedized tablets are typically handled by professionals who rely on them in the field. That means dropping it, placing it on sharp rocks and rubble, covering it in mud, and rinsing it off at the end of the day. Spoiler alert: it handled everything I threw at it like a champ.  

But before we dive into how it performed, let's take a closer look at what's under the hood of the DT Research DT312RP.

The specs and build quality

Depending on your performance needs, the DT312RP offers two processor options: a 4.6GHz, 10-core Intel Core i5-1335U or a 5GHz, 10-core Intel Core i7-1355U. These are backed by 8GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 512GB to 2TB, giving you plenty of room for data-intensive tasks.

The system runs Microsoft Windows 11 IoT Enterprise operating system.

One standout feature is that the system is passively cooled, meaning there are no fans. This not only reduces the risk of mechanical failure but also ensures the device remains quiet, even under heavy workloads.

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On the front, you'll find an 11.6-inch, 1920 x 1200 LED-backlit touchscreen display that's sunlight-readable with an impressive 1000 nits of brightness. This makes it perfect for outdoor use, even in bright conditions. The front panel also includes a microphone, speaker, and an array of buttons: a power button, two brightness controls, and five programmable buttons for added customization.

The side of the tablet houses various ports, including USB-A, USB-C, gigabit Ethernet, and a DC input. The battery is a hot-swappable 11.4V, 3800mAh unit, with larger battery options available if you need extended runtime.

On the back of the unit, there's a kickstand and access panels to swap out the battery and storage. While the top has a robust carry handle, which is perfect for handling the tablet while wearing gloves. 

The entire system is encased in a durable chassis made from a combination of ABS and polycarbonate polymer and magnesium-aluminum alloy. It measures 8.3 x 12.4 x 0.78 inches (212 x 316 x 20 mm) and weighs 3.43 lbs (1.55 kg). This robust construction allows the tablet to meet IP65, MIL-STD-810H, and MIL-STD-461G certifications, ensuring it can handle dust, water, shocks, and extreme temperatures. Here's a clip of me dropping the tablet from chest-high.

The system can be expanded with an optional keyboard, digital pen, batteries, and storage expansions. Camera options include a 5-megapixel front camera, 8-megapixel back camera, 4G LTE/AWS, GPS, and barcode scanner.

Performance in the Field

This is where the DT312RP truly shines. This system is built to endure conditions that wouldn't just break but completely destroy most other devices. The tablet can survive drops, scrapes, and bumps, and it operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as 14