NCJ Number
196286
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 29 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2002 Pages: 34,36-39,40
Date Published
July 2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the mobile computing options available for law enforcement.
Abstract
Computers have become more geared toward law enforcement, giving agencies more choices and a better ability to tailor the technology to their specific needs. Some of the options are outlined in terms of the certain criteria. Laptops, embedded or modular systems, and handheld personal digital assistants (PDAs) are options for transporting computers back and forth between cruiser and station or using computers in the field. Ruggedness is important regardless of mobility. Vibrations from helicopters, spilled coffee, rain, summer heat, high relative humidity, and winter cold damage computers. There are ratings that test units’ imperviousness to dust, water, temperature, vibration, and impact, including Military Standard 810F, Ingress Protection, and Intrinsic Safety. Bright sunlight reflecting off laptop displays and brightly-lit screens at night are problems officers commonly complain about. Some vendors might choose to stick with a lower nit rating and coat the screen with antiglare chemicals. A newer technology is the transflective display, which actually becomes brighter in stronger sunlight. Many agencies buy laptops with pen/touch display interface because keyboard and mouse use isn’t always convenient. The performance of some rugged laptops will degrade in higher temperatures and shut off at about 140 degrees F. The MobileVu Universal Computer is mounted in the trunk of a vehicle, which protects the computer from the highest temperature extremes of the dashboard of a car. Various power management options are available, including Windows- vs. BIOS-based programs, hibernation vs. suspended operation, and individual display, hard drive, and processor power saving options. Storing data on a central server means officers are at the mercy of the network. Slowness due to high usage activity, or even a break in the connection, could keep them from their data. Technology must be changeable because its replacement must be seamless if a cruiser is damaged, and systems should allow administrators to upgrade in the future. Connectors should be sealed with gaskets to protect against moisture and dust. A number of police departments opt to work with nearby companies for technical support.