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Remote Inspections™
from FOG Tracker

The Remote Inspection feature of FOG Tracker allows you to collect inspection data in the field and avoid typing the same data later. The Remote Inspection feature may be purchased as an independent feature of FOG Tracker, meaning you do not have to purchase the entire FOG Tracker product if all you want is Remote Inspections.

Benefits of using
Remote Inspections

You’ll do twice as many inspections than inspections done with traditional paper methods.
You’ll avoid entering data twice (once on paper in the field, then again later at a computer).

With Remote Inspections, you enter data once in the field into a tablet PC, laptop, or other handheld device. The inspection results are instantly entered into a secure database via the internet.

Your custom inspection forms are built into the software. (Yes, the exact forms you are already using!)
Supports mobile operations. Now you can truly operate in a mobile fashion and experience the benefits of instant information.
Collect signatures on site, and print out forms and letters while on site.
Quickly access inspection histories, and schedule new inspections on the spot.
If you issue violation notices, Remote Inspections can do that too!

All in all, Remote Inspections helps you do more inspections, in less time, at a lower cost than traditional paper inspection methods.

For pricing information and/or a free webinar demonstration, please contact us. Or call us at 1-877-546-5699.

Remote Inspections™ Hardware and System Requirements

Tablet PC Minimum Required Hardware

Tablet PC with Active Digitizer Stylus Technology
Anti-glare, anti-reflective display (for outdoor use)
1024x768 screen resolution
Built-in Mobile Broadband Modem
AC Power Adapter
Car Power Adapter
Built-in camera
1 USB Port

Optional Hardware

Wireless Network Adapter
Carry case\protection
Mobile Printer
Solid State Drive
Additional Digitizer Pen

Minimum Required Software

Windows XP Tablet or Windows 7 Professional Edition
Internet Explorer 7 (or 8 in compatibility mode)
Mobile Broadband cellular data plan (purchased separately)

Optional Software

MS Excel or Open Office Calc
MS Word or Open Office Writer
.PDF Reader

FAQs

What kind of tablet PC should I buy?
1. At a minimum we recommend a semi-rugged PC.
2. PC Magazine defines rugged and semi-rugged as:
  1. A semi-rugged computer withstands harsh temperatures as well as extreme vibration such as in a vehicle riding over rough terrain. It can also handle a certain amount of water on the keyboard. Semi-rugged laptops are typically regular laptops with better cases, rubber-mounted hard drives and spill-proof keyboards.
  2. Built with custom parts, a fully ruggedized PC, also called an "ultra-rugged PC," can be left out in the rain all night and be dropped three or more feet onto a cement floor. It may also offer a removable hard drive for more secure storage when needed.
3. The MotionComputing F5v we sell bridges semi-rugged and rugged for the perfect balance of price and ruggedness for field use.
What hardware and software configuration does Linko recommend?
1. Motion Computing F5v Slate PC with Windows 7 Professional Edition and the i5 vPro Processor with 1 GB RAM and 160 GB SATA hard drive as well as the integrated 3.0 megapixel camera, view anywhere display and Carry Sleeve. http://www.motioncomputing.com/products/tablet_pc_f5.asp
2. The F5v has an IP54 rating and was rated for military standard MIL-STD-810G
3. HP OfficeJet H470 Thermal Inkjet with HP Car Power Adapter.
  http://www.cdwg.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=1355185#PO
4. These printers are currently in use at 2 of our clients and have been for a few years.
What's the cost of a mobile printer?
1. The HP above goes for about $250 and the car power adapter another $75.
What cellular provider do you recommend?
1. Cellular service quality varies greatly by geographical location. We recommend visiting the websites of the providers in your area for details about the coverage they provide. The provider with the most complete coverage in your area should be selected. Also consider the number of inspections you want to complete each month and verify they have a plan available that meets your estimated needs.
Why should I select a cellular provider before I select a Tablet PC with a built-in mobile broadband card?
1. 2 types of mobile broadband networks exist; GSM and CDMA. AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. Sprint, Verizon and Alltel use CDMA. Many tablet PCs with mobile broadband cards only support 1 network so it's important you are aware of what cellular service provider your Tablet PC will work with.
2. The Motion F5v Tablet PC that Linko recommends comes equipped with a GOBI mobile broadband card. This card supports both CDMA and GSM so you can purchase the Tablet PC first and decide on the service provider later.
3. For a list of GSM providers, visit: http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_us.shtml
4. For a list of CDMA providers, visit: http://www.cdg.org/worldwide/index.asp
What's an estimated cost for mobile broadband service?
1. Terms vary but last we checked…
2. Verizon is about $60/month for up to 5GB/month total on network or 300MB/month off network roaming. The overage cost of off-network roaming is $1.99/B over 5GB.
3. Sprint is about $60.month for up to 5GB/month total on network or 300MB/month off network roaming. You are not allowed to exceed 5GB.
What kind of download and upload speeds can I expect?
1. 3G networks provide 600 Kbps – 1.4 Mbps Download and 500 Kbps – 800 Kbps Upload
2. 4G networks up to 10 times faster than 3G
What kind of broadband usage can I expect the Remote Inspector to use?
1. Assuming the Tablet PC is connected direct to the internet via the cellular modem (not connected via a VPN to your network first and then the internet), you can expect a single inspection to use about 7MB. On a 5GB plan, that means you can perform over 700 inspections in a month. If you are performing other tasks like checking email or surfing the web, these numbers will be reduced accordingly.
I have hardware but it does not have a built in cellular modem. Will I be able to use it?
1. Yes you can. Linko recommends and internal cellular modem because of the awkwardness of external devices and the likelihood they could break. However you can purchase an external USB style Cellular Modem. Contact your IT department for information on how to do that. Prices vary from $100-$300 and can sometimes be free when purchased with a cellular data plan.
What happens if I lose my stylus?
1. The stylus is an 'active' device, specially designed to communicate with your active digitizer display. You'll need another one so we recommend purchasing an additional one at the time you buy your hardware. Overtime the stylus tip can wear out and will need to be replaced so consider getting additional tips too.