Using technology to service technology – that’s how Ford’s mechanics use the Durabook ruggedized notebook to maintain their “rolling computers”.
“My vehicle is a rolling computer”, said Jim Hackett, soon after being appointed CEO of Ford Motor Company. “My business is computing.”
It’s a fact that the average family car now has more computing power than the rocket that sent men to the moon. Even relatively modest cars have computers controlling the sound system, locks, navigation system, and engine emissions.
You’re just as likely to see a mechanic with a notebook or tablet in his hand, as you are a torque wrench.
Ford engineers use Durabook’s ruggedized notebook to service their vehicles. They connect to the car’s computer and use Ford’s Vehicle Communication Module software to run diagnostics, analyse live data, read information from the sensors, change key parameters and upgrade the software. This process can be done wirelessly, or via USB connected to Durabook’s ruggedized and IP rated ports, which enables secure connectivity for cabled diagnostics.
It’s a demanding environment for any device, as Tung Kung, field service engineer for Ford NZ, attests: “These devices are handled and moved around a lot”, he says, “from the driver’s seat, to engine bay, to sitting on a tool box. Inevitably, they get bumped and have to be able to withstand knocks and drops.
“Our service bays are pretty clean, but it’s impossible to completely avoid dirty hands on the touchscreen. A conventional tablet or laptop just didn’t cut the mustard for our environment.”
Ford explored the different options available, of both traditional and specialist technology, to find a device that met their needs. “We chose Durabook after running a trial where we tested a range of devices – as we needed something much tougher,” says Tung.
A large screen size is another crucial factor. Chris Simms, foreman at Bay Ford Hastings, where the trial took place, explains: “The screen on the devices we previously used were too small for the amount of data our technicians need to view – we need a large touchscreen, a keyboard and fast performance. When we explained the problem to the experts, they recommended Durabook and offered us the S14I notebook to test.”
Not only is Durabook tough, the product portfolio also offers best price and performance compared to any of the devices trialled.
Chris found the Durabook S14I to be a high-performing notebook that did everything he and his team needed. “It’s definitely faster than what we had before and the 14-inch screen makes it a lot easier to read the graphs and diagnostic data. It can take the knocks and bumps of a busy workshop and the keyboard is a really good size for quick data entry. Switching was a good decision.”
Ford dealers have tested and approved the Durabook S14I for use by the dealerships, and find it’s the right tool for the job.
