MIL-STD810 E refers to the type of testing that mobile gear is put through to determine its ruggedness. Rugged mobile gear will state that it is MIL-STD810 E rated or may say it is MIL-STD810 F compliant. They both mean the same level of ruggedness is applicable. MIL-STD810 F is just a revision of MIL-STD810 E and applies more the to testing process rather than the resulting rating.
The 24 categories are as follows:
- Low Pressure (Altitude)
- High Temperature
- Low Temperature
- Temperature Shock
- Contamination by Fluids
- Solar Radiation (Sunshine)
- Rain Method
- Humidity
- Fungus
- Salt Fog
- Sand and Dust
- Explosive Atmosphere
- Immersion
- Acceleration
- Vibration
- Acoustic Noise
- Shock
- Pyroshock
- Acidic Atmosphere
- Gunfire Vibration
- Temperature, Humidity, Vibration, and Altitude
- Icing/Freezing Rain
- Ballistic Shock
- Vibro-Acoustic/Temperature
These categories are tested to determine the environmental worthiness and durability of a design. There are guidelines for each phase of testing in all categories.
All mobile gear to be tested are first run under normal conditions to ensure that they do operate properly and to set a baseline performance.
Tests are conducted in natural environments or in laboratories in simulated conditions. When possible a combination of testing environments is used.
Mobile gear that is labeled as "ruggedized" means that not all components have been tested to MIL-STD810 E/F standards and these mobile gear products are not fully rugged. Certain components may have additional protection against shock, exposure to liquids or dust.
Labels and promotional materials should always state the ratings of mobile gear so that you know whether you will be purchasing mobile gear that is completely rugged or just has ruggedized components.