Rugged In-Vehicle Routers Increase Connectivity Uptime for Field Services

It’s no longer enough to simply be a rugged device manufacturer. Mobility is becoming ever more complex, with different mobile worker personas needing customised device roll-outs, vehicle integration and ongoing maintenance and support for one monthly cost, lowering total cost of ownership.

This is why Panasonic has increasingly focused on its ‘Mobile IT-as-a-Service’ offering for customers and prospects, positioning it as a true mobility partner that increases productivity in the field.

The proliferation of the availability of artificial intelligence tools has seen an exponential increase in the amount of data that needs to be collected and analysed in the field. Using 5G-ready TOUGHBOOK devices such as the G2mk2 enables remote field service workers to access and analyse data in real-time. 

However, with multiple applications frequently running at the same time, mobile workers need an additional level of assurance that connectivity will remain strong and dependable, enabling them to remain as efficient as possible in the field.

Panasonic Connected Vehicle
Panasonic offers an end-to-end vehicle technology and integration service, including full installation, audit, vehicle consultancy, design and supply, full compliance and certification design, and OEM mirroring solutions – whereby on-screen data from a TOUGHBOOK can be replicated on an existing in-vehicle touchscreen display.

This also includes in-vehicle connectivity solutions for mobile workers, where standard WiFi networks or hardwired Ethernet connections are either not available or not fit-for-purpose. 

Using a ruggedised router from Panasonic partner, Cradlepoint, that can withstand the most challenging road and off-road conditions, Connected Vehicle features dual network 4G and 5G connectivity through multiple SIMs, through a private, secure VPN – comfortably being able to handle strong, reliable connectivity to multiple devices simultaneously. 

As part of Panasonic’s vehicle technology and integration services, it works closely with the customer to create bespoke in-vehicle integration and docking solutions for each fleet, with Panasonic taking a hands-on approach to installation of the TOUGHBOOK and rugged router, and all field servicing and maintenance. This helps to maximise uptime and efficiency for mobile workers.

Going a step further for customers
Panasonic Connected Vehicle not only bolsters in-vehicle connectivity for mobile workers, but can keep customers connected when disaster strikes. For example, when remote field services workers are attending a residential or business property where power has been lost, Connected Vehicle provides the end user with a means of remaining online – crucial for fellow remote workers. 

Likewise, in automotive field services, Connected Vehicle enables occupants of a stranded vehicle to remain connected at the roadside whilst the recovery or repair is being carried out. Anyone with young children will count this as a blessing!

With ingestion and analysis of mission critical data key for mobile emergency services workers when triaging or attending an incident, multiple vehicles fitted with Connected Vehicle form a mesh network. This provides robust, faster connection speeds that can save valuable minutes, especially in remote locations where connectivity is limited.

Lower total cost of ownership and increased visibility
Panasonic’s Connected Vehicle solution, as part of a single, monthly fee, offers a reduced total cost of ownership over the entirety of the technology’s lifecycle, typically ranging from 6-7 years, when compared to piecemeal procurement of connectivity solutions. 

For example, SIM and data costs are reduced compared with businesses purchasing individual cellular plans for multiple devices. Furthermore, connectivity can be monitored through a single pane of glass connectivity management portal provided by Cradlepoint, NetCloud Manager. This provides comprehensive reporting on a variety of measurables, such as device uptime and application usage as part of customer SLAs, alongside the delivery of software updates to endpoints.

Panasonic TOUGHBOOK’s Connected Vehicle creates an in-vehicle connectivity hotspot for field engineers to remain connected to back-office systems, share data in real-time, and receive real-time job updates on the move. This guarantees access to critical applications and data for field service workers when they need it most.

Ultimately, Connected Vehicle is just another example of how Panasonic is supporting the evolving needs of today’s hyper mobile workforce.