If you drop most laptops on the floor in a working environment (e.g., concrete or steel), they shatter into very expensive pieces. However, it is not just the case that protects a portable computer, since a strong case is useless if the hard drive goes wonky after a fall. Systems also need to be shock-resistant and protected against dust and fluids. Note that ruggedized laptops often have slower processors than desktops, because they generate less heat and don't require ventilating fans. No ventilation means fewer points of access for water and dirt and fewer parts to break. The best cases I have seen on laptops from a major manufacturer are the magnesium housings on the Panasonic Toughbook series. Some of the Toughbook products meet MIL-STD-810F requirements. You can use these computers in environments and under conditions that would ruin a conventional laptop in short order. Over the years, I have purchased several for work and have found them to be very reliable. (I had one get away from me while testing the suspension on a vehicle. It hit the ceiling, hit me, landed on the floor, and rattled around a bit while we were traversing a moderately rough course at speed. Not only was the computer airborne, so were all four wheels. The computer was undamaged.) There are many companies that produce ruggedized portable computers, particularly on products intended for military and industrial applications. There are many materials that can be used to make housings, but metals such as magnesium and titanium are offer very good protection and low weight. Steel is fine for a bench- or rack-mount system, but makes for a heavy laptop. Be aware that all such equipment come at a hefty premium.