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Tough, portable, and extremely dependable

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Rugged Computers, Mobile Routers & Printers and more

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Rugged Laptops & Tablets for the tough jobs. 

Preferred Communications is a North Carolina Corporation offering technology equipment needed for Public Safety vehicles since 1994.  We specialize in Rugged Laptops & Tablets, In-Car Video, Body Cameras, Mobile Routers, Mobile Printers as well as all the mounting equipment and installation needed. In addition to being able to completely outfit your Fleet and Mobile Command Vehicles, Preferred Communications is also able to provide technology for your facility including Computers, Networking equipment, Servers, and much more.  

Satellite Phones

Preferred Communications also specializes in satellite telephone equipment, installation and airtime services for Federal, State and Local government as well as other markets, including public utilities, medical facilities, missionary organizations and media. We consult with our customers to determine their specific equipment and installation requirements. –  Veteran owned and operated

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We have spent much of the last 20+ years equipping individuals and corporations with satellite phones, and have answered the question, “Which satellite phone would you recommend?” more times than we can count. When making a recommendation, there are a few questions that must be addressed before doing so.

Rugged Laptops & Tablets

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Embracing technology is critical to the continued advancement of public safety. Where police officers once had to rely on paper and pen, there are many more – better – options to streamline operations.

The original go-to advancement was, of course, the PC, and over time, tablets have emerged as another great option. The newest frontier is rugged. Specifically, officers having access to durable and rugged laptops & tablets is a must-have these days. Fortunately, the newest generation of mobile computers are not only designed to perform in nearly every physical environment but they are loaded with accessories as well.

Let’s look at five ways rugged laptops & tablets help law enforcement  and firefighter operations.

1. ELEMENTS-PROOF

Rugged devices are resistant to extreme temperatures, dust, dirt, ice, water and even fungus! I have personally witnessed rugged tablets withstand the hot, sunny and sandy environment I call home. Plus, many such devices can be easily disinfected – an important feature these days. What’s more, these rugged laptops & tablets are resistant to public safety personnel. That’s right, they are resistant to accidental drops, falls, tumbles, and can even withstand the occasional spilled coffee or two, allowing for more years of service.

2. READABLE SCREENS

Speaking of the sun – the often-blinding sun – rugged devices include screens that don’t even blink. They remain visible and readable when out in the field. Screen brightness can reach an impressive 1,400 nits, and for nighttime ops, there is a day/night mode to soften the display for all of us working on the night shifts. Similar to the aforementioned point about elements, these screens are scratch-resistant, all while providing videos, pictures and information in impressive high definition.

3. DEDICATED GPS

High-speed performance is needed in law enforcement. Many rugged devices offer reliable service to first responders via FirstNet from AT&T, and boast dedicated GPS, mobile broadband and WiFi on a 5G network. Whether you serve in densely populated cities or rural communities, you should never lose connectivity with this far-reaching service network. Further, the dedicated GPS works in harmony with vehicle AVL (automatic-vehicle-locator) technology or software, especially if these devices are utilized as MDTs. The GPS feature can aid in real-time personnel tracking on incident scenes and throughout the shift. This is a great way to maintain situational awareness. Add the connection to a reliable service, and you now have access to real-time video streaming and field communication.

4. EXPANDED ACCESSORIES

Police officers love accessories, and these devices have a lot of options to suit your fancy. From vehicle docks to custom handles or straps, rugged device manufacturers have your needs covered. The scanner is a great option that can help officers obtain essential information for incident reporting or tracking. These devices also have a USB connection for uploading/downloading information into databases, records or servers. You’ll also have peace of mind with the standard enhanced security features found on these rugged laptops & tablets, which can be customized for your agency’s specific needs.

5. ENHANCED VALUE

So how much do these things cost? A rugged device has a starting price point around $1,500. When compared to other available device options that do not provide the same features or promise to perform in our typical daily work, the price certainly matches the value. With all the options to consider, plus the expected long service life, these rugged laptops & tablets are worth it.

Durable and reliable are essential qualities in public safety. These rugged laptops, tablets and devices promise to deliver that to our members. If you have any specific questions about rugged laptops & tablets, please contact your nearest vendor. Make the switch today.