Mobile Computing - Developing A Mobile Power Strategy

Power architecture is also a critical issue for workstation performance. Mobile computing workstations can be powered by either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC). AC systems require an inverter to convert battery DC power to AC and the computer or monitor's AC adapter converts it back to DC. This conversion results in power loss, less efficiency and shorter runtimes. Conversely, the DC architecture does not require an inverter, allowing workstations to conserve power and operate more efficiently than an AC system.

Despite the drawbacks of AC power, both AC and DC power options can have a place in a comprehensive mobile power strategy. Metro's line-up of mobile computing workstations includes both DC and AC solutions. AC systems are powered only by sealed lead acid (SLA) systems, while DC systems are supported by SLA and a variety of advanced chemistries that offer significant performance advantages. DC solutions are the best option when long runtimes are essential.

However, if 10+ hours of runtime are not essential in a hospital unit, an AC workstation may be sufficient. Advanced workstations are available in a high-power AC model that provides a solution for decentralizing fixed-point technology investments – and bringing them to the point of care where they are most effective.