Many fire departments have ditched their mobile digital computers and are now using tablets for fire reporting, logging photos and patient care records. The flexibility of tablets enhances data collecting functions and allows a safer and more effective way to keep track of information.
Here are 10 tablets that can help you with this worthy addition to your fire department.
Are we missing one you like? Let us know in the comment section below.
Apple iPad Air 2
The iPad Air 2 is a thin 6.1 millimeters, making it the thinnest iPad. And it weighs less than a pound. So it’s even easier to hold in one hand and take with you anywhere. It also features a custom-designed antireflective coating that reduces glare by 56 percent. This makes using it on the fireground clearer and more readable. To ensure your iPad doesn’t break during fireground operations, you can use a Lifeproof case. Learn more.
ASUS Transformer
The new ASUS Transformer is a 10.1-inch tablet with a 1280 x 800 display, the latest high-performance Intel quad-core processor, and a lightweight optional keyboard dock with USB 2.0. The new interface features over 1,000 upgrades and enhancements over the standard Android operating system. Learn more.
Dell Latitude 12 Rugged tablet
The Latitude 12 Rugged tablet is designed to conquer the most extreme conditions. The tablet powers you through a full shift of projects and lets you stay untethered with optional dual hot-swap batteries so you never have to shut down apps while changing out a battery. Learn more.
Getac T800 rugged tablet
Getac’s T800 rugged tablet is a 2.1 pound tablet developed for harsh environments. Running on Windows 8.1 Professional, the tablet offers a quad-core Intel N3530 2.16 Ghz processor and can endure drops from 6 feet, as well as shocks, spills, vibration, dust and more. The T800 comes with Getac’s SnapBack add-ons, which allows for the attachment of an extended battery or SmartCard reader, RFID or Magnetic Strip reader functions. The battery can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. Learn more.
HP 10 Plus
The HP 10 Plus tablet was designed to mobilize business, enhance workflow and improve productivity. The 10 Plus has a 10" diagonal full HD display, runs on Android 4.4 for a more responsive experience and has a 1.30Ghz quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM. The battery lasts for up to 6 hours. To ruggedize the tablet, you can add a Lifeproof case. Learn more.
Microsoft Surface Pro 3
Mircosoft’s Surface Pro 3 12-inch tablet can replace your fire department’s laptop. Weighing 1.76 pounds, the Surface Pro 3 has all the power and performance of a premium laptop in a thin and lightweight design. It also comes with the Surface Pen, which delivers a natural writing experience. Pre-loaded with Windows 8.1 Pro, you can install your favorite desktop software. You can also go from tablet to laptop in a snap with the multi-position kickstand. Learn more.
Mobile Demand xTablet Flex 10
The xTablet Flex 10 comes with a protective case, which was tested by dropping the tablet 26 times from 4 feet to plywood over concrete, and has a scratch-proof screen protector, extending the life beyond your typical consumer-grade tablets. It has a 10" display and runs on Microsoft Windows 8.1 or 8.1 Pro, with an Intel Quad Core Bay Trail processor. Battery lasts up to 6 hours and up to 200 hours on standby. Learn more.
Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1
The Toughpad FZ-MI is a 1.2-pound tablet ideal for e-citations, fire inspections/arson investigation, electronic patient care reporting, data collection and other tasks. It runs Windows 8.1 Pro standard and an Intel Core i5 vPro processor. It has a 0.7-inch-thick, magnesium alloy chassis and a raised bezel for LCD impact protection. It also has a 1280 x 800 screen coated by an anti-reflective treatment. Learn more.
Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 8.0
The Galaxy Tab Active 8.0 is a ruggedized tablet that is built to meet the everyday demands and security needs of users. It is especially effective for use in rough workplaces that involve proximate outdoor use thanks to a bundled protective case, water/dust resistance, an 8" daylight-readable LCD screen and long battery life with a user-replaceable battery. Learn more.
Xplore Technologies Bobcat
The Bobcat tablet is the latest addition to Xplore’s fully-rugged tablets. The tablet runs on Windows 8.1 Pro, has a standard battery life of up to 8 hours and has options for top handle, shoulder strap and back hand strap. The tablet also has a vehicle docking option with a quick release latching system and has glove touch capability. Learn more.