Peripherals
Storage options for our rugged computers vary; capacity increases with each new release. High capacity storage makes it easy to download and save geographic information, parts data, schematics, manuals, drawings, and hazardous material information. Our rugged computers also have available easily swappable rugged hard drives, combo drives for DVD-ROM/CD-RW, and DVD multi-drives for DVD-RAM/DVD-RW/CD-RW options.
Pentax PocketJet 3Plus - Now With Bluetooth
TransCOR specially configures a Pentax PocketJet 3Plus thermal printer for in-vehicle use: office-oriented components such as the battery and AC adapter are eliminated. A DC connector is provided instead.

Why thermal? Our tests of several inkjet and ribbon/impact printers have lead us to prefer the thermal printer technology in extreme
temperature environments -- inks and ribbons may freeze or evaporate. Thermal paper also doesn't smear when exposed to moisture. And, this one pound printer is small enough at 1" x 2" x 10" that it can go anywhere or be mounted in a variety of locations in a vehicle.

TransCOR has designed a vehicle mount for the Pentax that can use roll fed paper. Users can just print out their document, then tear off the print. Or, a single letter- or legal-sized can be inserted singly.

Pentax PocketJet 3Plus
Download PDF Spec Sheet
TransCOR's Modular Electrical Panel serves as the hub of vehicles' computer electrical system. The Panel is directly connected to the vehicle's battery or auxiliary power supply as a separate circuit and is fused for 30 amps/12V DC capacity. The panel itself is often installed in a vehicle's trunk, on the safety or security barrier or behind seats. The computer, communications and peripheral systems are connected to it and all devices are separately fused to manufacturer's specifications.

TransCOR installs a six-circuit fuse block and Shut Down Timer on each Modular Electrical Panel. Typically included on the Panel are the radio modem or other communications device and DC adapters for computer, printer, scanner, or any other peripheral devices -- all in one.

Because the Panel is modular, it allows for more convenient deinstallation and re-installation of electrical components when moving a computer between vehicles. The Modular Electrical Panel also dissipates heat and absorbs shock for the components installed thereon.

TransCOR recommends a Shut Down Timer, often called 'voltage armor', for every vehicle installation of computers and related communications devices. The Shut Down Timer is multifunctional and protects the computer, vehicle
battery, radio:
  • The adjustable timer feature enables the computer system to draw power for a limited time after the vehicle ignition is turned off. Different versions of the Shut Down Timer can be set for a period from 15 minutes to 24 hours. TransCOR usually sets the timer for 2 hours. During this time, the system can allow up/download of devices after workers have turned off their vehicle, whether he or she is on a call or done for the day. Also during this timeframe, the computer's battery may be charged to allow it to serve as a backup battery during daily operation.
  • The Shut Down Timer also prevents the computer and radio from draining the vehicle's battery through the use of the timer. And, if vehicle voltage falls below 10 volts, the Shut Down Timer will prevent further power draw. The Shut Down Timer has an emergency override button that will allow power to be drawn at voltages below 10 volts for a 15 minute period, for example, to transmit a problem status to dispatchers.
  • The Shut Down Timer prevents power surges over 17 volts that may occur due to a faulty vehicle electrical system.
  • The Shut Down Timer prevents reverse polarity connections.
TransCOR uses only the highest quality components for in-vehicle Wiring for the computer system, such as: waterproof, sealed in-line ATM fuses; gas and oil resistant 10 gauge automotive wiring for the main circuit; shielded waterproof marine grade wire for other wiring applications; grommets and split loom tubing for shielding and protecting the wiring harness assembly.
Vehicle Docking Stations

TransCOR recommends using Vehicle Docking Stations when computers are frequently moved in and out of vehicles. If the computers are generally going to be left in the vehicles and not moved around, a less expensive Vehicle Cradle is usually sufficient. Additional reasons for utilizing Docking Stations are either to use many of the connectors on the Docking Station or to use the Docking Station to increase connectivity beyond what is available on the computer itself.

A Vehicle Cradle simply secures the computer. It is essentially "dumb" and contains no electronics. It does require that any cables or wires be directly connected to the computer.

In combination with a Vehicle Cradle or Docking Station, we strongly recommend using a Tilt-Swivel-Slide mechanism to allow adjustment flexibility for the user to adjust the viewing angle of view and access to the computer.

Office Docking Stations

For periodic updates of computers in the field, Office Docking Stations can provide the same operational connectivity advantages. This form of "SneakerNet " data transfer is particularly appropriate for large file revision changes (e.g. maps) and application updates during off-hours and as an alternative to slower and more costly in-vehicle wireless data transmission.

Panasonic Port Replicators:
Download PDF Spec Sheet


TransCOR Information Technologies
124 Jewett Street
Georgetown, MA 01833
1-888-RUGGED-3
Fax: (978) 352-9199
rugged@TransCOR-IT.com

 

Home
| About Us | Rugged Computers | Semi-Rugged Computers | Peripherals
Mounts | Installation | In the News | Contact Us


©1998-2008 TransCOR, a division of Haywood Associates Incorporated. All rights reserved.