Many portable barcode terminals are drop tested from 1 or 2 m, but ultra rugged terminals can survive unscathed after being dropped 100's of times a day, even from greater heights.

Typically they are also sealed better - from water, dust, etc. and can be used outside in pouring rain (any weather and winter temperatures).

You can sit on them too - which has snapped many a PDA style terminals for example. Even your car rolling over these ultra rugged terminals will not end your day, or job.

People that invest in these terminals are rewarded many times over, by the length of service. A well known saying goes - People who try to save money end up often paying twice.