Mounting Rugged Computers in Vehicles
While there are many options to mount a rugged computer or tablet in a vehicle, the two industry leading manufacturers are Havis and Gamber Johnson. Both manufacturers have coordinated with computer manufacturers such as Panasonic, Getac and Dell to create proprietary docks and cradles to work with each brand of computers. Purpose built for each computer model and form factor, a dock or cradle will secure a computer safely in a vehicle whereas a dock will also provide functionality through antenna, power and port replication.
Vibrations and Computers
Alongside extreme thermal variations, the other notable condition present in a vehicle which can quickly erode the longevity of a mounted rugged computer are vibrations and shocks. Fine circuitry and connections along with delicate soldering of internal components can be compromised by the constant vibrations found in vehicles. The most common point of failure in a rugged laptop or tablet is the display. With tiny components consisting of liquid crystal and electrodes, an LCD is prone to fracture or pixel failure when presented with vibrations and shocks. Accompanying increased risk of damage, a vibrating or shaking display is hard for an operator to utilize or view properly; a shaky display in a mounted computer is most dangerously impactful when it is being used for turn by turn navigation or computer aided dispatch in a vehicle.
Screen Supports
Both Gamber Johnson and Havis have recognized the inherent danger to both the computer asset and the operator that is brought on by excessive vibration and screen sway. Creating optional screen supports, the mounting and docking manufacturers have enabled rugged computer users to enhance their vehicle docking solution and improve their usage of the computer. Designed specifically to work with a certain line of vehicle docks and cradles, each rugged laptop screen support installs on the dock and then clamps the laptop display into a fixed position. Able to be customized for the user preferred angle, a screen support greatly minimizes vibration and sway affecting the LCD. While not mission critical, a screen support is highly recommended for any rugged laptop mounted for use in a moving vehicle.
Have questions about rugged computers or need a quote for vehicle mounting equipment? Give the Rugged or Die Sales Team a call at 816-388-0035 or browse Gamber Johnson and Havis vehicle mounting equipment here!
