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Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone
This product has reached End of Life (EOL) status and is no longer in production. Manufacturer support, updates, and spare parts may be discontinued.
All information is provided for reference only. Availability cannot be guaranteed.
Please contact us to discuss current alternatives or recommended replacement models.
Designed for hazardous industrial zones, the Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone provides intrinsically safe communication approved for ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 environments. Its impact-resistant and dust-tight design meets MIL-STD-810G and IP6X standards, making it suitable for field deployments where mechanical durability and environmental protection are required. Operating between -20°C and 60°C, this device ensures reliable performance under varying industrial conditions.
Dual SIM capability enhances connectivity options, while Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC enable integration with industrial peripherals and applications. The RG500-Atex features a dedicated SOS button and lone worker protection apps for emergency response, supporting worker safety in isolated or hazardous areas. The smartphone’s 5 MP autofocus rear camera and 0.3 MP front camera provide basic imaging functions, with a bright LED torch available for low-light tasks. Powered by an MT6589 Quad Core 1.2 GHz processor with 4 GB storage and 1 GB RAM, it runs Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean to support essential operations efficiently. USB charging and Wi-Fi b/g/n/ac support standard connectivity needs in tough industrial scenarios.
RG500-Atex Features
- ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 certified
- MIL-STD-810G drop and vibration resistant
- IP6X dust proof enclosure
- Wide temperature range operation -20°C to 60°C
- Dual SIM functionality for flexible connectivity
- Dedicated SOS emergency button
- NFC and Bluetooth 4.0 enabled
- Compact, rugged glass display
Product Type
Manufacturer
Certifications & Standards
Ruggedness
IP Rating
Mounting Format
Screen Size
Country Of Manufacture
Germany
Certifications
RoHS Compliant, CE
Dimensions
124 x 68.5 x 24 mm, weight: 206 g
2G Data
2G (GSM/GPRS/EDGE), quadband
3G Data
3G (UMTS/WCDMA/ HSPA+)
Android OS
4.1.2 Jelly Bean
ATEX Certifications
Bluetooth
Bluetooth®4.0
Camera
Innovation 2.0/Executive 2.0 2 cameras, 5 MP rear camera with AF (auto focus) and 0,3 MP front camera INNOVATION 2.1: without camera EXECUTIVE 2.1: without camera
Compass
With a digital compass app itâ„¢s easy to use the handset for outdoor navigation and orienteering.
Dual SIM
Run 2 SIM cards live at the same time
Dust Proof
impervious to dust and microparticles
G-sensor
G-Sensor
GPS
localization and navigation
Lone Worker
Via an additional app on the handset you can protect either yourself or your workers when they are working outdoors. Fall detection. SOS Calls a contact in the event of an emergency
Loud Speaker
amplifed speaker for outdoor use.
Miltary Spec
MIL-STD 810G is a certification that is normally required for products designed for military use. It involves a handset having additional impact protection allowing it to be dropped from at least 2m height. Additionally the handset is protected against:
Network Conectivity
(GSM / GPRS / EDGE) Quad band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
NFC Connected
NFC Equipped For Apps & Extra Connectivity
Platform
MT6589 Quad Core (1,2 GHz), internal memory 4 GB ROM and 1 GB RAM
Quad Band
frequencies: 2G: GSM/GPRS/EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), 3G: UMTS/WCDMA/HSPA (850/1900/2100 MHz oder 900/1900/2100 MHz)
Rugged Glass
3.2" (8.13 cm) HVGA-Glass with a resolution of 320 x 480 pixel
SOS
With a dedicated SOS button the RG310 gives lone worker protection for all itâ„¢s users. In the event of an emergency the SOS button can be pressed to activate a call to up to 3 SOS contacts in succession until the call is answered and assistance can be a
Torch
Super bright LED torch
USB Charging
USB on-the-go able to charge other USB devices
WI-FI
IEEE 802.11 b/g/n/ac
Temperature Rating
Rating: -20C to 60C
The Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone is designed and engineered for use in demanding environments where reliability, durability are essential. The RG500-Atex supports a wide range of industries and operational applications.
Common deployment industries include: Construction, Defence And Military, Emergency Services, Energy and Utilities, Industrial Manufacturing, Marine And Offshore, Natural Resources and Mining, Oil and Gas.
Across these sectors, the RG500-Atex is typically used in applications such as ATEX And Hazardous-Area Data Capture, Emergency Dispatch And Incident Management, Environmental Monitoring And Data Logging, Field Data Capture And Reporting, Health, Safety, And Compliance Inspections, Mobile Workforce Operations, Route Planning And Navigation, Secure Communications And Command-And-Control.
These examples demonstrate the versatility of the RG500-Atex across both industry sectors and real-world operational use cases. Its suitability extends well beyond the scenarios listed above, making it a flexible solution for a broad range of requirements.
For further information, or to assess whether the RG500-Atex is appropriate for your specific application, please contact us.
The Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty against defects in workmanship and materials, effective from the date of shipment (unless otherwise agreed in writing).
To receive service under this warranty, the eligible product, Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone, must be presented to RUGGED in the United Kingdom.
For more information about the Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone or to arrange repairs and services not covered by the warranty, please visit the warranty section on our website.
Do you need further details about the Ruggear RG500-Atex Rugged Smartphone, or would you like to discuss a customised solution or demonstration?
At RUGGED, we recognise that every project has its own unique demands. If you have any questions about the Ruggear RG500-Atex or need a custom Rugged Smartphone solution designed specifically for you, our team of technical experts are ready to assist you.
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Selecting the correct solution for your specific application and operating environment requires careful consideration.
At Rugged, our engineering and product specialists can advise on specifications, environmental suitability, mounting requirements, connectivity, and lifecycle planning to ensure the right fit for your deployment.
With extensive industry experience and a focus on reliability and performance, we help you select a solution aligned with your operational requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
RUGGED offers free technical support for the lifetime of products you purchase. This includes help with setup, troubleshooting, and integration. Support is available online or directly from the technical team
Rugged smartphones from Rugged Limited are engineered to withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for a variety of demanding applications. Unlike standard consumer devices, these SmartPhones are built with enhanced durability features, such as resistance to drops, water, dust, and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments.
They are frequently utilised by professionals in industries such as construction, logistics, emergency services, and field work, where a reliable communication device is crucial. These robust phones often incorporate features like extended battery life, bright screens for outdoor visibility, and programmable buttons for quick access to critical functions. For those who require a durable and dependable SmartPhone solution, explore the range of rugged smartphones available to meet the toughest challenges.
Rugged SmartPhones are indeed built with full support for mobile internet access, ensuring users can stay connected wherever their work or adventures take them. These devices incorporate various mobile internet features to facilitate seamless communication and access to online resources.
For instance, many Rugged SmartPhone models are equipped with dual SIM capabilities, allowing users to manage two different networks or plans simultaneously. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently or need separate lines for work and personal use. Additionally, these resilient devices often include features like NFC for convenient contactless payments and connectivity options, further enhancing their mobile internet utility.
Explore the full range of robust and internet-ready Rugged smartphones designed to meet the demands of challenging environments.
Smartphones have become integral to many modern business environments, transcending their traditional consumer roles. Their adaptability allows them to be deployed across a wide array of sectors, from logistics and manufacturing to fieldwork and retail.
The integration of advanced features such as high-resolution cameras, GPS, and robust connectivity options facilitates tasks like inventory management, real-time data capture, and communication among dispersed teams. For businesses that operate in challenging conditions, the use of a rugged rugged SmartPhone is particularly beneficial. These devices are engineered to withstand drops, dust, water, and extreme temperatures, ensuring uninterrupted operation and reducing replacement costs.
This resilience makes them invaluable tools for maintaining productivity and efficiency in demanding work settings, clearly demonstrating how extensively SmartPhones are utilised in business today.
Absolutely, Rugged SmartPhone devices are built to run all your essential applications seamlessly. Whether you need navigation apps, communication tools, productivity suites, or entertainment, these robust smartphones offer full app compatibility. They operate on standard mobile operating systems, allowing users to download and utilise apps from their respective app stores, ensuring you have access to the same functionalities as a conventional SmartPhone.
This means you can enjoy the durability and resilience that Rugged is known for, without compromising on the smart features you rely on daily. For more information on Rugged’s range of devices, explore the selection of rugged smartphones available.
Rugged SmartPhones are indeed designed to be portable while offering exceptional durability. Many models feature a slim and lightweight design, making them easy to carry in a pocket or attach to gear without adding significant bulk. Despite their robust construction, which protects against drops, water, and dust, our devices are engineered to be convenient for everyday use and transport.
For instance, some Rugged SmartPhone models are specifically crafted with ergonomics in mind, ensuring a comfortable grip and easy handling. This focus on portability means you can take your device wherever your work or adventures lead, without compromising on protection or functionality. The balance between ruggedness and a portable form factor is a key aspect of the Rugged SmartPhone range.
Rugged smartphones are designed with versatility in mind, allowing them to connect with a wide array of accessories to maximise their utility in demanding environments. These connections can be established through several common methods, including Bluetooth for wireless peripherals like headsets or external sensors, and USB for physical connections to charging docks, data transfer devices, or specialised equipment.
The ability to connect to accessories ensures that your Rugged SmartPhone can adapt to different needs, whether it’s for enhanced communication, data capture, or operational efficiency. This flexibility is crucial for professionals who rely on their devices for more than just calls and messages, integrating them into complex workflows with vital tools and peripherals.
For a comprehensive look at the range of options available, explore the full selection of Rugged smartphones and their accessory compatibility.
Rugged Limited’s SmartPhones are engineered with security as a priority, ensuring that your device and its data remain protected even in demanding conditions. Our devices are built to withstand harsh environments, which inherently contributes to their physical security and longevity.
Beyond physical resilience, our Rugged SmartPhones incorporate features designed to safeguard your information. We understand the importance of data integrity and privacy, particularly for professionals who rely on their devices for critical tasks. Therefore, our operating systems and device configurations are optimised to provide a secure user experience, minimising vulnerabilities and protecting against unauthorised access.
For individuals and teams operating in various industries, having a secure SmartPhone is paramount. Rugged Limited is committed to delivering devices that not only perform reliably but also offer peace of mind regarding the security of your communications and data.
A Rugged smartphone from Rugged Limited is engineered for resilience, making it an ideal SmartPhone choice for individuals working in demanding industries or those who require a device that can withstand extreme conditions. These specialized devices are built with enhanced protection against drops, impacts, dust, and water ingress, far exceeding the capabilities of a typical consumer SmartPhone. This robust construction ensures consistent performance and reliability, even in harsh environments where a regular mobile phone would quickly fail.
For a comprehensive selection of our durable mobile devices, explore our range of rugged smartphones.

RugGear’s breadth reflects a strategy of covering an entire communications fleet from one brand, rather than a single device type. The catalogue spans compact PTT handsets like the RG170, full 5G mission-critical smartphones such as the RG540, dedicated rugged radios like the RG440, ATEX-certified models like the RG500-Atex, rugged tablets such as the RG935, and even an industrial Bluetooth smartwatch and trigger-handle accessories. This lets an organisation standardise on one ecosystem across roles, simplifying procurement, training, accessories and support. The unifying thread is resilient push-to-talk communications built to IP68-class sealing and MIL-STD-810 testing. For buyers building or refreshing a mixed fleet, that single-brand coverage is a practical advantage. Confirm the right model for each role on its product page.
For many teams, yes. RugGear builds its range around mission-critical push-to-talk over cellular, which delivers radio-style instant voice without the coverage limits of a private radio network. Devices such as the RG540 5G smartphone for MCPTX and the dedicated RG440 rugged radio offer programmable PTT keys, loud speakers, dual noise-cancelling microphones and accessory ports for PTT headsets and remote speaker microphones, while running standard apps and broadband data alongside voice. That combination lets one device cover both radio-replacement voice and smartphone data tasks, simplifying the carry. Suitability depends on your PTT platform, coverage and accessory needs, so confirm the network compatibility, MCPTT support and accessory options on the specific RugGear model’s product page before migrating from radios.
RugGear designs devices around resilient communication in demanding conditions, building durability and connectivity together rather than as afterthoughts. The baseline across the range is IP68-class ingress sealing and MIL-STD-810 testing for dust, water, shock and vibration, with reinforced Corning Gorilla Glass displays that support glove and wet operation on many models. On top of that, the brand layers communications-first features such as programmable push-to-talk keys, loud noise-cancelling speakers, removable batteries for shift swapping, and accessory interfaces like the RG540’s 16-pin port. Specific models add ATEX hazardous-area approval or thermal and navigation features. The result is hardware engineered for continuous-duty professional use. Because the exact build credentials vary by device, confirm the specification on each model’s product page.
Push-to-talk is central to RugGear’s design philosophy, making the brand a strong choice for teams replacing or augmenting two-way radio. Many models are built around mission-critical push-to-talk over cellular, including the RG540 5G smartphone for MCPTX and the dedicated RG440 rugged radio, with PTT-ready handsets across the range such as the RG170, RG360 and RG760. These devices add programmable keys, loud noise-cancelling speakers, dual microphones and accessory interfaces like the RG540’s 16-pin port for PTT headsets and remote speaker microphones. Wide cellular and Wi-Fi band support keeps teams connected across networks. For dispatch, fleet and frontline communications, RugGear’s PTT focus is a genuine differentiator. Confirm the specific PTT capability and accessory compatibility on each model’s product page.
Yes, RugGear offers ATEX-certified devices for use in explosive atmospheres, which sets the brand apart for hazardous-area work. The RG500-Atex is approved for ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 environments, making it intrinsically safe for areas where flammable gas, vapour or dust may be present, such as oil and gas, chemical, energy and certain manufacturing sites. It combines that hazardous-area approval with IP6X dust protection and MIL-STD-810G military testing for mechanical durability, plus lone-worker protection apps, fall detection and a dedicated SOS button for worker safety in isolated zones. ATEX certification is model-specific, so for any hazardous-area deployment confirm the exact zone approval and certification marks on the product page before specifying the device.
RugGear’s breadth lets it serve a wide span of sectors with mission-critical communication needs. On the Rugged catalogue these include emergency services, energy and utilities, construction, industrial manufacturing, logistics and supply chain, rail and transport, public sector, defence and military, marine and offshore, oil and gas, and mining. The common requirement is reliable push-to-talk and data over cellular in tough or hazardous conditions, met by IP68-class sealing, MIL-STD-810 testing and, on specific models, ATEX approval. Use cases range from frontline dispatch and fleet coordination to lone-worker safety and hazardous-area field work. With smartphones, radios, tablets and wearables in the range, RugGear suits whole-fleet standardisation. Match each device to its role and confirm specifications on the product page.
RugGear is a German rugged-communications brand specialising in durable smartphones, push-to-talk devices, radios and handheld accessories for mission-critical field work. With one of the broadest ranges on the Rugged catalogue, it covers everything from compact PTT-ready handsets like the RG170 to 5G mission-critical smartphones such as the RG540, dedicated rugged radios like the RG440, ATEX-certified models, rugged tablets and even an industrial Bluetooth smartwatch. The focus is on professional communications, particularly push-to-talk over cellular for teams that previously relied on two-way radio. Sectors served include emergency services, utilities, transport, logistics and defence. With such breadth, RugGear suits buyers building a fleet around resilient, PTT-capable communications. Confirm each model’s exact specification on its product page.
RugGear devices are built to recognised ingress, military and, on some models, hazardous-area standards, with the set varying by device. The RG540 5G smartphone and the RG440 rugged radio are both certified to IP68 and tested to MIL-STD-810H, with the RG440 also carrying CE, FCC and RoHS marks. The RG500-Atex is certified for ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous areas alongside IP6X dust protection and MIL-STD-810G testing, making it intrinsically safe for explosive atmospheres. Across the range, expect IP68-class sealing and MIL-STD-810 testing as the baseline, with ATEX approval on specific models. Because certifications differ significantly between devices, always confirm the exact set on the product page for the RugGear model you intend to deploy.








