Becky Hannert

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 […]

July 7 2023

Recruiting the best people

Becky Hannert fire, Police

Get Recruits… All you want is to find people that will love and thrive in the job. How can you find those people? It can be a full time job to recruit and retain good people. Why I decided to serve… “I knew from a very young age that police work would be the career that I wanted to pursue. I wanted a career where I was not behind a desk; a career where I would be on the front lines and where I would make a difference, hopefully for the better, with each person I encounter. I knew I […]

July 5 2023

Best Satellite Phones Today

Becky Hannert Adventure, Satellite

With societies becoming increasingly interconnected, communication holds a vital role in influencing how we interact with one another. Satellite phones have been pivotal in revolutionizing communications by providing robust signals even where traditional cell phone towers fall short — particularly within remote areas where connectivity can be challenging. They leverage geostationary satellites orbiting above the Earth’s atmosphere. They are accessible at any time globally with minimal interference issues and stable high-quality bandwidths that facilitate constant availability, making them perfect for people living off the grid. Our choice for the #1 Best Overall Satellite Phone Today is Iridium 9575 Extreme. Satellite phones […]

May 16 2023

The Impossible Route

THE IMPOSSIBLE ROUTE Everyone has their own impossible route. It might be climbing a volcano or finishing a single mile. The impossible route documentary series is about capturing the story and the adventure of cyclists trying to accomplish what might be considered impossible. This endeavor is not about racing; it’s about finding adventure, pushing the limit, and then going beyond what is thought to be possible. The first impossible route expedition took place on Mauna Kea in 2020. The adventure has continued ever since, with two seasons of expeditions filmed and plans for season 3. The vision is to grow this inspiration into […]

May 15 2023

Satellite Phone Rescue – The Meagan McGrath Story

Becky Hannert Adventure, Satellite

Rescue from the Crevasse – The Meagan McGrath Story “I can’t thank Iridium enough. You helped save my life. The battery of the Iridium phone hung in the whole time. It was my lifeline, truly. The rescue team was able to send me updates on their whereabouts, and eventually came to get me. I was really happy to have had the phone.” Meagan McGrath Meagan McGrath is a Canadian Air Force Major and experienced mountaineer. In December 2009, she departed on a journey to become the first Canadian to solo ski from Hercules Inlet in Antarctica to the South Pole. […]

May 12 2023

What is a GPS Laptop?

Becky Hannert Uncategorized

Michael Ingram Last Modified Date: May 12, 2023 A GPS laptop is a portable computer configured with a global positioning system (GPS) device and mapping software, allowing the user to track his or her position anywhere on the earth. While some laptop computers, or notebooks, are now available with built-in GPS devices, the most common way to configure a laptop to use GPS technology is by purchasing an external device. This external device usually connects to the computer through a USB port or by taking advantage of Bluetooth® wireless technology. GPS laptops are most commonly used by boaters and motorists, particularly RV drivers or […]

May 12 2023

RUGGEDvs.NON-RUGGED

Why Getac? With over 30 years of experience, Getac is a recognized as a leader in global rugged device manufacturing. Since, 1989 Getac has been an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and consistently leads the industry in innovation, technology, and design of rugged laptops and tablets. Getac’s primary goal is to offer a solution that streamlines productivity and withstands the rigors of the environment. Getac’s best-in-class products and services along with our dedication to an awesome customer experience make Getac the highest ranked in customer satisfaction in the rugged computing market. Most portable devices are not designed for work outside the […]

May 4 2023

The Importance of Satellite Phones for Law Enforcement in Rural Areas

by Marcin Frąckiewicz in Satellite Phones, TS2 Space on 20 February 2023 How Satellite Phones are Enhancing Law Enforcement in Rural Areas Law enforcement in rural areas is being enhanced by the use of satellite phones. These phones provide a reliable and secure communication link between officers and their headquarters, even in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. Satellite phones are becoming increasingly popular with law enforcement agencies in rural areas due to their ability to provide reliable and secure communication. These phones are equipped with advanced encryption technology, which ensures that all communications are secure and private. This […]

April 12 2023

Peplink Routers save money compared to Cradlepoint

Becky Hannert Routers

Cellular / Mobile Routers Peplink over Cradlepoint Only pay for the features you need. A savings of 40-60% is possible by switching from Cradlepoint to Peplink. Same great performance. Let us guide you through your options Call 919-575-4600 See more routers, click here Peplink BR1 Mini (HW3) Reviews: Peplink has a rating of 4.8 stars with 102 reviews. Price: less than half of Cradlepoint WiFi Range: 250-300′ through walls, much greater unobstructed Certified Networks: AT&T T-Mobile FirstNet Verizon Detailed Specs Cradlepoint IBR900 Reviews: Cradlepoint has a rating of 4.5 stars with 86 reviews. Price: more than double Peplink WiFi Range: 150-200′ through walls, much greater […]

March 24 2023

Hurricanes, Cyclones, and Typhoons Explained

Tropical Cyclone Amanda The names of the powerful storms that form in the waters of the Atlantic and Pacific—whether hurricane, cyclone, or typhoon—depends on where they form. Tropical Cyclone Amanda was a category 4 on the Saffir-Simpson scale imaged by NASA’s Aqua satellite. Reposted from: https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/hurricanes-cyclones-and-typhoons-explained/ Centuries ago European explorers learned the indigenous word hurakan, signifying evil spirits and weather gods, to describe the storms that battered their ships in the Caribbean. Today, “hurricane” is one of three names for giant, spiraling tropical storms with winds of at least 119 kilometers (74 miles) an hour. Called hurricanes when they develop over the North Atlantic, […]

March 6 2023

Getac ZX10 Rugged Tablet review

Snappy performance hides behind a robust, sturdy shell that delivers in harsh conditions. By Mark Anthony Ramirez published March 06, 2023 (Image: © Future) Laptop Mag Verdict If you’re in the market for a rugged field tablet, the Getac ZX10 is an excellent choice. With perky performance and a daylight-readable display making it perfect for first responders and those in construction. Pros Rugged, durable build quality Readable in daylight display Almost 24-hour battery life Speedy performance Cons You pay a premium for extreme durability Weak audio Why you can trust Laptop Mag Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so […]

February 16 2023

Ogden missionary alive and safe after cyclone in New Zealand

In this image released by the New Zealand Defense Force on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, people stand on a rooftop of a home waiting to be winched to safety by helicopter in the Esk Valley, near Napier, New Zealand. The New Zealand government declared a national state of emergency Tuesday after Cyclone Gabrielle battered the country’s north in what officials described as the nation’s most severe weather event in years. (New Zealand Defense Force via AP) BY JOSH ELLIS KSLTV.com UPDATE: An Ogden missionary is safe, after being out of contact following a cyclone in New Zealand his mother told KSL […]

February 14 2023

Design My Computer

Rugged Computers created with the right specs to get the job done that you need. We have created a pdf file that will help you make the selections for your custom computer, Laptop or Tablet. Click here to download FIRST THOUGHTS: How Rugged do you need the computer to be? Consumer Grade, Semi-Rugged, Fully-Rugged or Ultra-Rugged —- Do you need it to function in a particular environment? Need a particular IP rating? Will it get wet? Exposed to temperature extremes? Subject to dust or dirt? Will it be moved from vehicle or desk often? What style would work best for […]

February 14 2023

Getac X600 Server

Becky Hannert Mobile Printers, Police

Getac launches powerful new X600 Server and X600 Pro-PCI models, expanding X600 line of rugged mobile workstations IRVINE, Calif. — February 14, 2023: Getac X600 Review — Getac Getac Technology Corporation, a leading producer of rugged technology announced today the expansion of its flagship X600 rugged mobile workstation product line with the launch of the X600 Server and X600 Pro-PCI. The new models will reside alongside the recently launched X600 and X600 Pro, creating a comprehensive lineup of rugged mobile workstations that are purpose-built to meet the increasing demands of professionals working in challenging industries such as defense, manufacturing and oil & gas. X600 […]

February 7 2023

Modernizing Traffic Stops

Modernizing Traffic Processes Increases Officer Efficiency and Safety for Ontario Municipality David Heath, Senior Manager, Major Accounts – Canada Police departments in Canada and the United States face a similar challenge: how to modernize the unsafe and inefficient traditional traffic stop process, without exceeding tight department budgets. In one small city of 80,000 people in Ontario, Canada, traffic stops were averaging more than 20 minutes. Officers were handwriting their citations, which kept the officer and civilians alike on the side of the road for long periods of time with traffic whizzing by. Not only was this process time-consuming and dangerous: […]

February 6 2023

The Role of Mobile Printers Grows in Local Government and Public Safety

Becky Hannert Mobile Printers, Police

Many agencies require portable and rugged printing solutions for employees on location. by Raul Palacios, director of product management for Brother Mobile Solutions. In just a few years, the global mobile printer market has grown exponentially, from $290 million in 2014 to $2.89 billion in 2020, according to Emergen Research. This growth underscores the increasingly important role printer mobility and portability are playing across industries, including public services. Mobile printers — paired with flexible, simultaneous Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity — are frequently used in local government, particularly in public safety, law enforcement and voting. The demand for print-as-you-go functionality in a rugged, […]

January 22 2023

Groundbreaking AI wildlife camera developed to improve conservation

Becky Hannert Missionary, Satellite

4 January 2023 Tim van Deursen from Hack The Planet installing an AI-enabled camera trap in Lopé National Park Gabon. Image by Floris Tils. A new project, jointly led by the University of Stirling and Dutch tech for good start-up Hack the Planet, has for the first time developed an artificial intelligence (AI) powered wildlife camera that could hugely benefit conservation by identifying real-time animal-human conflict. The technology, which can detect different animal species and humans in real time, has the potential to discover conflicts between people and wildlife, as well as illegal activities in protected areas, and provide live […]

January 22 2023

Rugged Touchscreen Without Equal

A device’s screen quality is one of the most important elements of the perceived comfort and enjoyment of its usage, especially if it’s a touchscreen. But if your business has never used rugged computers before, touchscreen quality might not be the first or even the second thing you consider when contemplating a purchase. However, it’s really very important – for three reasons. One, rugged devices are meant to be used outside, so their screens must be bright enough to read under sunlight. If they’re not, what you’ll see will effectively be a black screen, rendering this technological investment near useless […]

January 16 2023

Satellite Coverage

Curious how satellites network for service with your satellite phone. Iridium has a great page about Satellite Coverage that gives fabulous visuals to explain the system.

January 16 2023

How To Turn Your Cell Phone Into A Satellite Phone

Becky Hannert Body Cameras, Police

Mobile device innovation has made it easier for us to stay constantly connected. We expect our phone to always work, but that’s often not the case. Cellular networks cover about 15 percent of the planet, so when traveling to off-the-grid places, that “mobile network not available” message can be frustrating. It’d be nice if your cell phone or tablet worked everywhere you went, but for those times they don’t, there’s Iridium GO! Exec®. Whether you’re on a family hike, taking a sailboat out for the day, or RVing across the country, Iridium GO! has everything you need to keep your cellular device […]

December 19 2022

Seven Ways Police Body Camera Technology is Beneficial for Everyone

The use of Body-Worn Cameras in the U.S. has continued to gain momentum in the last few years. Now, a majority of police officers across the country have a Body-Worn Camera (BWC) as part of their kit and police forces are trying to tackle the technological hurdles that come with so much data being gathered. Those hurdles, however, are a small inconvenience compared to the many benefits the body-worn technology offers to officers and the public. Here are just seven of the many reasons BWCs are so beneficial, and why we believe this technology will continue to grow and enhance […]

December 16 2022

Peplink UBR Plus First Look

Becky Hannert Routers

Spotted a tweet from Peplink with a great video explaining many things about one of their products. Lowest Cost Dual Cellular with Category 7 Erik from MobileMustHave.com shows off Peplink’s new UBR Plus mobile router which is Peplink’s first dual CAT-7 Mobile router for unbreakable connectivity at an extremely aggressive price point. Unboxing, feature overview, and a brief summary of how to configure SpeedFusion Connect (SpeedFusion Cloud). If you’re looking for an economical all-in-one router, look no further! To Erik, the UBR Plus is an SUV among routers, though it is small. Check out this video for a closer look […]

December 8 2022

Hunter rescued after heart trouble in the high country

October 26, 2022 Lucas Turner Features, Meeker 0 Dr. Anthony Canfield didn’t expect to put his medical training to use while elk hunting in the Flattops Wilderness this year, but that training played a role in the coordinated effort to rescue his friend. After riding into the mountains on horseback with outfitter Trappers Lodge, Canfield and longtime friend “Dave” were enjoying their time camping, fishing and hunting for any signs of elk. After multiple days acclimating to the elevation and taking in the fresh mountain air, Canfield’s friend started feeling ill. “So we were hiking every day, you know, carrying backpacks and carrying our […]

November 30 2022

How The Rugged Device Has Changed Future Workplace Trends

Disclaimer: This is a paid guest post from an industry expert. Any views or opinions stated in this article are personal, belong solely to the guest author, and do not reflect the official policy or position of Getac. Failing devices often lead to financial issues due to decreased productivity and data losses, preventing workers from completing tasks on time. Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment is known for failing more frequently on the frontlines than rugged devices. Rugged devices are not only about durability. They provide stability over time through their form factor, accessories, operating system (OS) support, drivers and product, and spare […]

November 22 2022

Persevering in hard places

MAF CONTINUES TO SERVE IN HAITI AMIDST PROLONGED UPHEAVAL By Natalie Holsten Just over a week after a devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake rocked southwestern Haiti, MAF pilot Eric Fagerland landed in the town of Jérémie with a load of relief supplies. As Eric prepared to unload the plane, Mark Stockeland of Haiti Bible Mission grabbed him by the shoulder and pointed to a group of injured people waiting nearby. Mark, a frequent user and close friend of MAF, was coordinating relief efforts in the area. “They’ve been lying there for hours,” said Mark. “They just don’t have a way to […]

November 9 2022

Getac Laptop on solo rowing trip across the Atlantic

Becky Hannert Adventure, Computers, Satellite

A British adventurer has broken the world record for rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean, relying on little more than a six metre rowboat and a Getac rugged laptop. His Solo Trip with Getac was a success. Charlie Pitcher, a 50 year old father of four from Felsted in Essex, wiped almost six days off the existing record, completing the 2,700 mile journey in just over 35 days. The extreme athlete said that when embarking upon a world record-breaking adventure at sea, there are one or two items of equipment he won’t leave home without: one of them is his […]

October 27 2022

What is a Police Car Laptop Mount, and How Does it Help?

Becky Hannert Adventure, Satellite

Law enforcement encounters challenges more complex than ever before. In addition to historic criminal strategies, a new wave of constantly-evolving digital misconduct makes police work even more difficult. Fortunately, public-sector officials can adopt advanced technology themselves. Two examples of these solutions are rugged tablets and laptops, tools that have become essential to law enforcement officers. It is vital to get technology access to police with as little interference as possible. An important mechanism for this task is employing a police car laptop mount and docking stations. Rugged docking solutions and mounts aim to provide worry-free technology access and installation. These devices ensure police occupants’ […]

October 26 2022

Rebelle Rally Relies on Iridium

The Rebelle Rally The Rebelle Rally covers 2,500 kilometers of stunning terrain across the Nevada and California desert. Blending the love of driving with the ultimate challenge of precise navigation, the Rebelle tests your skills over 8 days of competition. It is not a race for speed, but a unique and demanding event based on the elements of headings, hidden checkpoints, time, and distance using maps, compass, and roadbook. NO GPS. NO CELL PHONES. EVER.MCLEAN, VA., October 19, 2021 – Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) is proud to share that the Rebelle Rally extended its relationship naming Iridium its official safety and communications partner. The […]

October 22 2022

Get to know Windows 11 Pro

Becky Hannert Police, Satellite

Security out of the box Powerful, out-of-the-box protection, including phishing safeguards, passwordless security, and app control led to a reported 58% drop in security incidents with Windows 11 Pro devices.1 Protect at the core Get powerful protection on hybrid workdevices with TPM 2.0 silicon-assisted securityand data and identity safeguards. Boot up safely Secure Boot and Trusted Boot work in tandemto prevent malware and corruptedcomponents from loading when aWindows 11 Pro-enabled device turns on.Together, they help ensure booting up yourdevice is safe and secure. Hardware isolation, encryption, and malware protection Streamline management of your hybridworkplace and protect your data with morecontrol over apps and […]

October 8 2022

Satellite Phones as an essential tool after a disaster: Voice as the most basic need

Satellite Phone in a disaster: Sarasota, Florida, United States, Oct. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The importance of satellite communication during and after a natural disaster such as Hurricane Ian. It’s safe to say that today’s businesses and governments couldn’t function without the Internet, voice communication and other forms of modern telecommunications. Everything from running the business to handling finances, logistics, internal and external communications, and utilizing various safety devices. Few, however, appreciate that all these systems are land based and hence vulnerable to the effects of both natural and man-made disasters. When a disaster strikes, cellular infrastructure can be […]

September 21 2022

How Rugged Solutions Improve Response to Natural Disaster Trends

Global natural disasters have increased more than ten times from 1960 to 2019, quantifying a trend many people have observed. During this period, the number of natural hazards exploded from 39 to 396 events per year. In addition to the tragic loss of human life, these events carry billion-dollar economic losses that local and federal governments must cover. As a result, regions feel the effects of even one catastrophic climate event long after it ends. Extreme weather events are the primary driver of the surge in natural disasters. Two other global macro trends that raise the frequency of extreme weather impacting humans are urbanization […]

August 30 2022

Why law enforcement should switch to rugged laptops

Police need rugged computers. From element-resistant design to expanded accessories, rugged devices are must-have on-scene technology 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 a rugged and durable PC or tablet is a must-have these days. Fortunately, the newest generation of mobile computers are not only […]

August 26 2022

What is a Docking Station, its Purpose, and Why You Need Them

Rugged mobile PCs exist primarily to enhance mobile worker productivity and efficiency while on foot. Docking stations take these benefits a step further by improving productivity and efficiency while using such a device while seated, or at least generally stationary, whether in a vehicle, a workshop, or your office. What is a Docking Station? A docking station is an apparatus that fixes a portable device, such as a notebook or tablet, in a single location. This is done by sliding the device vertically and immobilizing it with a sliding lock mechanism. They fall into two general categories: vehicle docks/cradles and […]

August 8 2022

Red Cross Training Prepares Responders for International Disasters

Victor Nguala and Julie Bradley, members of the Red Cross international disaster response team, train with emergency communications equipment. This training, which replicates field experiences during an international deployment, focuses on information technology. This group of emergency responders is often the first to arrive in the wake of a major disaster. Team members have highly-technical skills and work with specialized equipment. July 28, 2022 “Information technology and communication are so important in the wake of a disaster,” said Rick Steeves. As a member of a Red Cross international crisis response team, Steeves and his colleagues are often on the […]

July 8 2022

Rescue from “Bear Island” with Satellite Phone

INSIDE THE RUSH TO RESCUE 2 FROM DOWNED PLANE ON ISLAND RULED BY BEARS July 7, 2022 · Noelle Wiehe reposted from https://www.coffeeordie.com/downed-plane-island-bears It’s one thing to rush to rescue a downed plane. It’s another when the aircraft crashes onto an island ruled by big bears. “We know of Montague Island as a spot where they bring like some of the more troubled bears in the state,” US Coast Guard rescue helicopter pilot Lt. Ian Erickson told Coffee or Die Magazine. “That was something in the back of our minds. If there are so many bears, that’s going to be a […]

May 12 2022

Getac S410 Review

Intel Skylake powered semi-rugged 14-inch laptop slimmer, lighter, more versatile (by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer — photography by Carol Cotton) On April 12, Getac announced the S410 notebook computer. The S410 represents the next generation of the company’s popular series of S400 “semi-rugged” laptops. Getac’s goal with this new machine is to enhance the functionality of the unit while minimizing bulk and weight. In terms of target markets, the S410 is a full-size, full-featured laptop specifically designed for use in a variety of field applications that require more toughness and durability than consumer products can provide, but not the higher weight and cost […]

May 1 2022

Getac Collaborates with Non-profit to Support Forestry Restoration

TAIPEI, April 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Getac, a leader in rugged computing solutions, has announced a partnership with One Tree Planted as part of its Earth Day 2022 sustainability initiative. Getac will invite partners and customers to jointly participate in the “Our Solutions Your Success” campaign, with a goal of planting 30,000 trees. Inspired by customers from the public safety, natural resources, and environmental protection sectors, the collaboration sees both organisations working together to raise funds to make an impact on sustainability. This program will support the ecosystem that has suffered from devastating forest fires, in a bid to restore climate stability. All proceeds raised […]

April 20 2022

Who Needs A 5G Rugged Computer?

5G has been one of the most heavily publicized and will be the most widely used technological advancements of the past few years. You have heard of futuristic use cases like roads with many cars but no drivers. Remote robotic surgeries. Smart everything. The metaverse. But with all those things still at least several years away, there might be some questions about whether organizations need mobile 5G capability just yet. These questions might come up at the next opportunity to purchase new or upgrade existing rugged laptops or tablets. This article hopes to answer these inquiries and more. The Cellular […]

March 30 2022

Rugged Tablets Built for Contractors

The construction industry is facing a growing number of pressures. Tight deadlines and budgets and the need for better collaboration are just a few. Team members need the right technology to keep up to meet the scale of work and cooperation required. Rugged tablets are proving to be the answer. Tablets streamline processes and communication, simplify approvals, and help construction industry professionals stay on top of high-stakes responsibilities in dangerous environments. The Need for a Construction Tablet In many ways, today’s construction industry pressures are not necessarily new. Team members have always had to communicate almost every day to meet tight […]

March 27 2022

Police Mobile Technology

In a survey conducted by Praetorian Digital via PoliceOne.com found the mobile technology tools that police officers need are not typically what they get. Throughout my 25+ year career, I have interviewed hundreds of candidates for jobs, ranging from entry-level engineers to senior vice presidents. Most of these interviews were for high-skill jobs where there were few candidates and, thus, a lot of competition for talent. By the time they sat down with me, these candidates had already interviewed at a few places. They had their pitch down pat. So many had their “canned” answers to obvious interview questions; it […]

March 25 2022

Semi-Rugged vs. Business-Rugged Laptops: How Are They Different?

Becky Hannert Computers, Utility

Semi-Rugged vs. Business-Rugged: Suppose you’re in the market for a rugged laptop, and your organization can live without the most extreme guaranteed tolerances expected of a fully-rugged or ultra-rugged model. In that case, the vetting process can be confusing. You may encounter terms like semi-rugged laptop, business-rugged laptop, enterprise rugged laptop, and just plain rugged laptop. Some of these terms are meaningful, and some are marketing. A Little About Rugged – Rugged laptop meaning A rugged laptop is a type of laptop that is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, dust, water, and shocks. Getac manufactures […]

March 24 2022

Factors Impacting the Utilities Sector Today and Tomorrow

The utilities sector has undergone fundamental shifts in the past few years. While traditionally, work processes have been chiefly manually recorded, digitalization has been helping garner efficiencies in incremental ways. Rugged mobile tablets, connected to enterprise asset management systems and resource planning software, have decreased errors and time inefficiencies associated with all-manual processes. But this is not enough. External forces such as labor shortage, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate change are just a few that will strain the utilities industry. Utilities must get more innovative and embrace digital transformation more thoroughly to meet these challenges. A few factors have already shaped how […]

January 22 2022

Mobile Routers for Law Enforcement

Becky Hannert Police, Routers

In today’s digital world, uninterrupted communication is essential – and even more so within the public safety community. When it comes to first response, every situation has the potential to be critical. To this end, manufacturers have developed Mobile Routers for Law Enforcement. These devices are small, rugged, and ready to be connected to essentially any communications network, leaving the lines of communication open all the time, even when public communication systems are failing. Why does my agency need an in-vehicle gateway or router? Unless you work in an IT-related field, you probably don’t even think twice about your internet connection. In fact, […]

October 19 2021

How Technology Makes Public Safety Safer and More Efficient

Public safety is an increasingly challenging profession. Police, fire, and EMS personnel strive to keep our communities safe and secure, especially during crises such as COVID-19. Today, public safety personnel benefit from modern computer-driven devices purpose-built for their challenging work environments. These devices provide first responders with an unprecedented degree of communication, coordination, and efficiency. Technology Makes Public Safety Safer However, it takes the right technology. Consumer-grade equipment is not up to the task. Computers In the Field One of the most significant advancements in public safety computing is the advent of rugged tablets and notebook computers. These devices are […]

October 5 2021

6 Reasons to Use Rugged Devices for Ambulance Services

Rugged devices for ambulance services can improve the time and efficiency of their goals. In a world dominated by digital transformation, it’s no surprise to see digital solutions replacing pen-and-paper workflows. This can be applied throughout various industries from manufacturing to healthcare. Emergency medical services (EMS) is an area that can benefit enormously from the introduction of digital solutions. The use of rugged devices can speed up workflows and save precious, lifesaving minutes and seconds. Paramedics have traditionally relied on handwritten notes and records, and voice-based communication via two-way radios. With digital transformation, users can streamline these processes, put more […]

September 21 2021

Law Enforcement Tech Innovations: A Review of the Past and a Move to the Future

Becky Hannert Computers, Utility

After a decade of enormous growth and innovation in law enforcement technology, Getac Video Solutions is building on the past, looking toward the future and anticipating continued development in the years to come. what Law Enforcement Tech Innovations have there been. 9 Innovations Between 2010 and 2020 The 2010s were a tremendous decade for change in police technology, according to James Murphy III, Director of Sales at Getac Video. The reason for the expansion was a combination of technology continuing to advance, the public requesting more transparency from government agencies with the assistance of technology, and the role of the police […]

June 28 2021

How Rugged Mobile Devices Improve Customer Service in Utilities and Field Repair

Utilities are changing in keeping with increasing regulatory and other pressures. Here’s how Rugged Mobile Devices in Utilities Field are helping with asset management and facilitating the journey to digital transformation. The customer-provider relationship in utilities is no longer a passive one-way street. Customers interact with utilities in real time, often through personalized platforms that keep them informed of consumption trends, maintenance/repair, and service problems. In such a landscape, getting customer service right is more important than ever. Given that technicians are the face of the company in the field, technician enablement will play a key role in driving customer […]

May 22 2021

Missionaries make grueling trip

Monday was a long day hiking the jungles and riding the rivers for missionaries Scott Flaugher and Jareb McClain. As Scott and Jareb made their way down the fourth river of the day, the sun slowly disappeared. They pulled out their satellite phone to let Natasha, Scott’s wife, know how the trip was going. After getting off the river, they still had a two-hour night hike before they could rest. So far, the trip is going well. Scott and Jareb are hiking through the heart of Elseng territory. They are learning more about the Elseng people to help them decide where […]

February 24 2021

Affordable Satellite Phones: We Test the Best

Satellite phones allow people in remote locations to make phone calls from pretty much anywhere in the world. We dug in to find the best satellite phone and plan for off-grid adventures around the globe. Satellite text messengers are popular tools for backcountry communications. Created as an affordable alternative to satellite phones, the price gap between satellite text and voice services continues to narrow. Monthly voice plans now start as low as $65 — with a free phone. Why text when you can make a voice call? For abbreviated exchanges, a quick SMS message usually works perfectly. For conversations demanding a […]

January 27 2020

GETAC V110 Review

GETAC V110 Second generation of Getac’s thinner, lighter rugged convertible now with with Intel 5th generation Core processors, better cameras, better display, glove-capable multi-touch. By Conrad H. Blickenstorfer, photography by Carol Cotton) Getac’s second generation V110 is a remarkably thin and light rugged convertible notebook computer that’s been upgraded with Intel “Broadwell” 5th generation Core processors and a variety of functional and technology improvements. Already featuring a spacious 11.6-inch display, multi-touch, dual input, fast 802.11ac WiFi and 4G LTE mobile broadband, the second gen upgrades will provide even greater appeal for those customers who need the comprehensive features of […]

November 20 2019

Why You Need To Include Satellite Communications In Your Emergency Plan

Wayne Rash is a technology and science writer based in Washington. The California wildfires have created a series of catastrophes for businesses that reach far beyond the physical destruction of the fires themselves. In northern California, a series of long-term planned outages is leaving PG&E customers in the dark as the utility tries to avoid starting any new fires by shutting down the power grid. While these outages may preserve areas where fires have not started, the damage to businesses in these areas is still significant. Some of that damage comes from direct losses, such as merchandise spoiled by lack of […]

January 22 2019

The Wild Brothers

MISSIONARY KID LIFE Four brothers share what it’s like growing up as missionary kids out in the jungle, from building a house to making friends with tribal people. Share – subscribe on you tube GET THE REALITY SERIES ON DVD SHOP NOW As missionary kids in the jungle of Southeast Asia, our lives may seem very different to others. But to us, hunting and exploring in the jungle, eating jungle foods, and speaking a tribal language is normal. It’s all part of growing up Wild! We get asked a lot of questions about our lives as missionary kids in the […]

May 15 2018

Want to see what a depressed missionary looks like?

Becky Hannert Adventure, Missionary

August 29, 2014 Want to see what a depressed missionary looks like? That’s a picture of me, in April 2003 when I was suffering from major depression with a little side of psychosis every now and again. A depressed missionary looks a lot like an un-depressed missionary. I think depressed missionaries are like depressed regular people: we’re all really good at keeping the pain hidden away. We’re not sure if it’s safe to tell the truth about how we really feel. Yesterday, a friend of mine asked me how long it took me to write As Soon As I Fell. […]

November 22 2017

Lost British explorer saved by Christian missionary

A British explorer who went missing in Papua New Guinea three weeks ago has been saved by a Christian missionary. Benedict Allen, 57, had no mobile phone or GPS device with him when he was dropped by helicopter in a remote jungle to begin an expedition. He hoped to reach a remote tribe, thought to be one of the last on Earth to have no contact with the outside world, but was discovered by a Christian missionary worker at a remote airstrip in the heart of the country where roads have been cut off because of tribal fighting. See many […]

September 22 2017

Puerto Rico Relief Fund – The power of connecting

We have just heard from APBM Missionary Andy Sharpeta on Viesques Island, Puerto Rico. He was able to borrow the Mayor’s satellite phone to make the call, the only one on the island. Andy, his wife and four children are all safe. Anything built of wood on the island is pretty much gone. They have enough food and water for the time being; most folks do not. Andy has been given a line of credit to get food for distribution to people who are without. He has a small generator that helps for some things, but I imagine that gasoline will be […]

July 13 2010

Satellite phones make cowboys wildfire spotters