Remote Inspector LogoRemote Inspector:
Hardware and
System Requirements

Tablet PC Minimum Required Hardware

Optional Hardware

Minimum Required Software

Optional Software

FAQs

  1. What kind of tablet PC should I buy?
    1. At a minimum we recommend a semi-rugged PC.
    2. PC Magazine defines rugged and semi-rugged as:
      1. A semi-rugged computer withstands harsh temperatures as well as extreme vibration such as in a vehicle riding over rough terrain. It can also handle a certain amount of water on the keyboard. Semi-rugged laptops are typically regular laptops with better cases, rubber-mounted hard drives and spill-proof keyboards.
      2. Built with custom parts, a fully ruggedized PC, also called an "ultra-rugged PC," can be left out in the rain all night and be dropped three or more feet onto a cement floor. It may also offer a removable hard drive for more secure storage when needed.
  2. What hardware and software configuration does Linko recommend?
    1. Any tablet PC that meets the minimum requirements listed on this document.
    2. HP OfficeJet H470 Thermal Inkjet with HP Car Power Adapter.
      http://www.cdwg.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=1355185#PO
    3. These printers are currently in use at 2 of our clients and have been for a few years.
  3. What's the cost of a mobile printer?
    1. The HP above goes for about $250 and the car power adapter another $75.
  4. What cellular provider do you recommend?
    1. Cellular service quality varies greatly by geographical location. We recommend visiting the websites of the providers in your area for details about the coverage they provide. The provider with the most complete coverage in your area should be selected. Also consider the number of inspections you want to complete each month and verify they have a plan available that meets your estimated needs.
  5. Why should I select a cellular provider before I select a Tablet PC with a built-in mobile broadband card?
    1. 2 types of mobile broadband networks exist; GSM and CDMA. AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. Sprint, Verizon and Alltel use CDMA. Many tablet PCs with mobile broadband cards only support 1 network so it's important you are aware of what cellular service provider your Tablet PC will work with.
    2. Linko recommends using a table PC that comes equipped with a GOBI mobile broadband card
    3. For a list of GSM providers, visit: http://maps.mobileworldlive.com/network.php?cid=280&cname=United States
    4. For a list of CDMA providers, visit: http://www.cdg.org/worldwide/index.asp
  6. What's an estimated cost for mobile broadband service?
    1. Terms vary but last we checked…
    2. Verizon is about $60/month for up to 5GB/month total on network or 300MB/month off network roaming. The overage cost of off-network roaming is $1.99/MB over 5GB.
    3. Sprint is about $60/month for up to 5GB/month total on network or 300MB/month off network roaming. You are not allowed to exceed 5GB.
  7. What kind of download and upload speeds can I expect?
    1. 3G networks provide 600 Kbps – 1.4 Mbps Download and 500 Kbps – 800 Kbps Upload
    2. 4G networks up to 10 times faster than 3G
  8. What kind of broadband usage can I expect the Remote Inspector to use?
    1. Assuming the Tablet PC is connected direct to the internet via the cellular modem (not connected via a VPN to your network first and then the internet), you can expect a single inspection to use about 7MB. On a 5GB plan, that means you can perform over 700 inspections in a month. If you are performing other tasks like checking email or surfing the web, these numbers will be reduced accordingly.
  9. I have hardware but it does not have a built in cellular modem. Will I be able to use it?
    1. Yes you can. Linko recommends an internal cellular modem because of the awkwardness of external devices and the likelihood they could break. However you can purchase an external USB style cellular modem or mobile hotspot device. Contact your IT department for information on how to do that. Prices vary from $100-$300 and can sometimes be free when purchased with a cellular data plan.
  10. What happens if I lose my stylus?
    1. The stylus is an 'active' device, specially designed to communicate with your active digitizer display. You'll need another one so we recommend purchasing an additional one at the time you buy your hardware. Over time the stylus tip can wear out and will need to be replaced so consider getting additional tips too.

 

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