How your devices connect and communicate
You need the information fast and for your device communications to be reliable. There are ways to improve your connection. Find the solution that fits your budget and needs. Most systems start simple. There is a CAD system and it uses the internet to reach the computer (laptop or tablet) with the data. Here is some beginning information to help you find your solution.
BASIC SETUP FOR CONNECTING
The beginner level of how the computer is locked into place in the vehicle is a cradle. These can be device specific or universal. The universal can sometimes look a bit clunky but if your device will not be removed from the vehicle very often it is a small concern.
- With a cradle you need to plug and unplug anytime the computer is moved.
- Computer must have LTE to connect with the internet and GPS to give location information.
- If you do not have LTE than you need a hotspot or mobile router.
Adding LTE / GPS to a computer system typically adds around $600 MSRP.
UPGRADE TO A DOCK
Everything plugs into dock so quick and easy removal of computer
One of the most common issues seen is cords and connections getting damaged or broken from repeated removal. Especially when done in a hurry. If your device will not be removed often a cradle is a good option, but if you remove it often connecting and reconnecting connections can take a toll of the device and your efficiency.
A dock that provides power and connections for other devices is typically $600 MSRP more than a cradle. Damage to plugs and cords is less likely and speed of removal and inserting is improved.
UPGRADE WITH AN EXTERNAL ANTENNA
In the past the only way to do this was a wired connection to the device or through a dock. There are now cradles with triple pass through. A dock with triple pass through gives you the ease of easy removal and placement and a solid connection to wifi.
A dock that provides power and connections for other devices AND triple passthru for antennas is typically $1000 MSRP more than a cradle. An external antenna adds around $400 MSRP.
UPGRADE WITH A MOBILE ROUTER
Improve your connection by adding a mobile router. The computer then does not need LTE or GPS. Other systems can also use the modem (printers, body worn cameras, in car camera systems and more. A router also allows your IT department to set parameters on devices and to trouble shoot remotely through the cloud software.
*The only reason to have GPS on the computer would be if you need to track the device separate from the vehicle.
A modem provides internet connection and GPS locations.
Depending on brand and specs it costs $600-$1700 MSRP. Not having GPS/LTE installed on the computer device can save up to $600 MSRP.
