ATEX Tablet Buying Decision Guide
4 steps to the right device
Choosing an ATEX tablet involves four sequential decisions: zone classification, operating system, form factor, and software lifecycle. Get the first one wrong and the rest doesn't matter: Zone 2 equipment must not be used in Zone 1. This guide walks procurement and HSE teams through each decision.
What is your zone classification?
This is non-negotiable. Your site's hazardous area classification document (per IEC 60079-10-1 or DSEAR risk assessment) determines the minimum equipment category.
Explosive atmosphere likely occasionally in normal operation. Requires Category 2G equipment (for example Ex ib intrinsic safety or an Ex db flameproof enclosure). Costs more and there are fewer options, but it covers Zone 2 as well.
Explosive atmosphere not likely, only brief periods. Category 3G equipment permitted (Ex ec, formerly Ex nA). Usually costs less and there are more options. Cannot be used in Zone 1.
Rule of thumb: when in doubt, specify Zone 1. It covers both zones and eliminates the risk of zone boundary disputes. See our detailed Zone 1 vs Zone 2 comparison.
Android or Windows?
This decision is driven by your software requirements, not personal preference.
- + Usually longer battery life
- + Usually lower cost
- + More Zone 1 options available
- + Mobile-first field apps
- - No legacy Windows software support
- + Runs SCADA/DCS client software
- + Desktop app compatibility
- + Active Directory integration
- - Usually shorter battery life
- - Fewer Zone 1 options (Aegex 10 IS, Bartec Agile X IS)
- - Usually higher cost
Default to Android unless you have a specific desktop Windows application with no web or mobile equivalent. Most modern CMMS, SAP PM, and inspection tools have Android apps. If your organisation already runs iPads, certified iPad cases and conversions exist for Zone 1 and Zone 2; see the tablet comparison.
Screen size and form factor
The Ex tablets compared on this site range from 8″ to 11.6″. The choice depends on the primary use case:
One-hand operation, fits in cargo pockets, lighter (the i.safe MOBILE IS930.1 is about 570 g). Suits walkdowns, checklist-based inspections, barcode scanning.
Better for drawings, P&IDs, work orders with long text. Heavier (about 690 g for the ecom Tab-Ex 03 DZ1 up to about 1.4 kg for the Getac F110-Ex or Xshielder iPad Pro 11). Suits control room use, engineering review, training.
Software update lifecycle
This is the hidden risk in ATEX tablet procurement. Manufacturers state a support period, but the real ceiling is the chipset maker's BSP (Board Support Package) end-of-life. Ask two questions:
- What is the manufacturer's stated security patch commitment? (e.g. "Q3/2030")
- What SoC does the tablet use, and when does its BSP expire? After BSP expiry, kernel-level patches cannot be delivered regardless of what the manufacturer promises.
Demand both answers in writing before procurement sign-off. A promise of "7 years of updates" on a chipset that expires in 4 years cannot be kept. See our ecom vs i.safe comparison for real-world examples.
FAQ
Zone 1 or Zone 2 tablet?
If any area where the tablet will be used is Zone 1, you need a Zone 1 tablet. Zone 1 equipment can also be used in Zone 2, but not vice versa.
Android or Windows?
Android for most field work. Windows only if you need desktop software that has no web or mobile equivalent. Zone 1 Windows tablets exist (Aegex 10 IS, Bartec Agile X IS), but there are fewer of them.