Computing needs for dirty jobs

Gone are the days when a hammer and crescent wrench were enough to get the job done. Today, manual labor jobs increasingly rely on technology.

Whether your office is a trailer on a construction site or a truck full of tools, computers have become a necessity for many so-called "dirty jobs." However, even as computers play a bigger role in these positions, needs differ vastly from their white-collar counterparts.

Mobility is perhaps the biggest need for computers in the field. Many workers need to be able to carry their computers with them so they have information and web access on hand at all times.

Durability is another major component. A computer in a nice, air-conditioned office can stand to be somewhat exposed. But this isn't the case on a job site. Laptops or tablet computers built to withstand dust and dirt, as well as physical strain, are typically best suited for employees in the field.

There are a number of "rugged" devices available to meet the needs of on-site employees, military personnel and others in the field. By equipping workers with computers built to withstand a degree of pressure, businesses can ensure their investments remain productive and protected.