As technology advances, more and more devices are being deployed to assist public safety personnel police, EMS, fire etc., in performing their duties. Tools that are used every day in this line of work include but is not limited to GPS, Car dash cameras, body cameras, Panasonic Toughbook laptops, IPADS, and two way radios. In vehicle routers make connectivity to all of these devices possible. In this guide, I will take you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect in-vehicle router for multiple applications.
Introduction to In-Vehicle Routers
An in-vehicle router is a device that allows you to create a Wi-Fi network in your vehicle. It works by connecting to a cellular network and then creating a Wi-Fi network that can be used by multiple devices. In-vehicle routers come in different shapes and sizes, and they offer different features. Some of the common features of in-vehicle routers include GPS, video streaming, and high-bandwidth command and control.
Benefits of In-Vehicle Routers
There are several benefits to using an in-vehicle router. First and foremost, these 4G LTE routers allow personnel to stay connected while on the move. Furthermore In-vehicle routers also provide a more stable and reliable connection compared to using a mobile hotspot. They are also more secure than using public Wi-Fi networks.
Understanding the Different Applications for In-Vehicle Routers
In-vehicle routers can be used for different applications. Some of the most common applications include HD video streaming, video offload, high-bandwidth command and control, and GPS applications.
HD Video Streaming
One of the most demanding applications for in-vehicle routers is HD video streaming. This requires a router that can handle high data transfer rates and provide a stable connection. In-vehicle routers that are designed for HD video streaming should have a minimum data transfer rate of 10Mbps.
Video Offload
Another common application for in-vehicle routers is video offload. This is where video footage is downloaded from a vehicle’s cameras and stored on a server for later analysis. In-vehicle routers that are designed for video offload should have a minimum storage capacity of 1TB.
High-Bandwidth Command and Control
In-vehicle routers can also be used for high-bandwidth command and control applications. This requires a router that can handle high data transfer rates and provide a stable connection. In-vehicle routers that are designed for high-bandwidth command and control should have a minimum data transfer rate of 10Mbps.
GPS Applications
Finally, in-vehicle routers can also be used for GPS applications. This requires a router that can provide a stable connection and accurate location data. In-vehicle routers that are designed for GPS applications should have a minimum accuracy of 2.5 meters.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an In-Vehicle Router
When choosing an in-vehicle router, there are several factors that you need to consider. These include the type of router, the features that it offers, and the price.
Types of In-Vehicle Routers Available in the Market
There are two main types of in-vehicle routers available in the market: cellular routers and satellite routers. Cellular routers use a cellular network to provide internet connectivity, while satellite routers use a satellite connection. Cellular routers are more popular because they are generally more affordable and offer better coverage.
Features to Look for in an In-Vehicle Router
When choosing an in-vehicle router, it is important to look for specific features that will meet your needs. Some of the most important features to look for include:
- Data transfer rate: This refers to the maximum amount of data that the router can transfer per second. The higher the data transfer rate, the faster the connection.
- Storage capacity: This refers to the amount of data that the router can store. This is important for applications such as video offload.
- GPS accuracy: This refers to how accurate the router is when it comes to location data. This is important for GPS applications.
- Security features: This refers to the measures that the router has in place to protect your data and your network from hackers and other threats.
Comparing Popular In-Vehicle Router Brands and Models
There are several popular in-vehicle router brands and models in the market. Some of the most popular brands include Cradlepoint, Pepwave, and Sierra Wireless. When comparing different brands and models, it is important to consider the features that they offer, their price, and their reputation.
Installation and Setup of an In-Vehicle Router
Installing and setting up an in-vehicle router is a straightforward process. Most routers come with an installation guide that will take you through the process step-by-step. The first step is to choose a location for the router. This should be a location that is easily accessible and where the router will get good signal strength. Once you have chosen a location, you can then connect the router to power and to your vehicle’s antenna. Finally, you can connect your devices to the Wi-Fi network that the router has created.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with In-Vehicle Routers
Despite their reliability, in-vehicle routers can sometimes experience issues. Some of the most common issues include poor signal strength, slow connection speeds, and connectivity issues. To troubleshoot these issues, you can try moving the router to a different location, resetting the router, or contacting the manufacturer for support.
Finding the Best Deals on In-Vehicle Routers
When looking for the best deals on in-vehicle routers, it is important to consider both the price and the features that they offer. Some of the best places to find deals on in-vehicle routers include online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay, as well as specialty electronics retailers.
Conclusion
In-vehicle routers are an essential device for anyone who needs to stay connected while on the move. They offer a reliable and secure connection that is superior to using a mobile hotspot or public Wi-Fi network. When choosing an in-vehicle router, it is important to consider the specific applications that you will be using it for, as well as the features that it offers. By following the advice in this guide, you can choose the perfect in-vehicle router for your teams needs.
