Mobile workstations

David Wilkinson of Ram Mount explains the benefits of electronics mounting solutions.

RAM Mounting Systems has set out to change the everyday approach to design. Offering a truly revolutionary product line, RAM addresses the obvious and not so obvious needs of fleet vehicles and the mobile professionals that use them. The creation of a mobile workstation in vehicles has been commonplace for years and is essential to the daily activities of fleets across America. RAM has dedicated significant resources to creating a truly unique solution for a common need.

RAM Mounting Systems, a company known worldwide for electronics mounting solutions, has introduced the RAM Tough-Box line of vehicle products. The evolution of a common fleet vehicle product has finally taken a huge leap forward. Up to 30 percent lighter than similar products on the market, the RAM Tough-Box vehicle console is functional and durable but without the unnecessary weight and bulk of comparable systems. Constructed of high strength composite, steel and aluminum materials, the RAM Tough-Box system has dramatically improved and increased the options when selecting a console system. Outstanding performance and a long product life are just a few of the initial benefits when choosing a RAM Tough-Box console system.

Another key feature is the incorporation of molded parts, which create tight seams and eliminate sharp corners and edges. This helps to avoid contamination of sensitive electronics mounted in the console and assures that occupants aren't injured in an accident by sharp edges and corners. Keeping in mind the safety of the vehicle occupants, as well as ease of use and installation, these consoles were crafted to meet and exceed expectations from an operational and safety standpoint.

In terms of dramatic change, an all in one solution can be a space saver but will likely force the user to sacrifice quality and performance. Changing that perception is the goal of the new RAM Angled Consoles, which are part of the Tough-Box line of products. The Angled Console is truly one of a kind. You will not find anything else like it on the market today. This new design is easily modified by the installer to in across a wide range of applications. With a single part number or SKU, customers have a product that is almost universal for a variety of fleet vehicles. Quite often console systems are manufactured so the user needs to order the exact size to suit their needs. Factors which affect the size of the console box include the number of devices that need to be mounted, any optional accessories required such as cup holders, arm rest or printer mounts, as well as whether a computer or mobile data terminal needs to be mounted. This can equate to a logistical nightmare for fleet managers or installers since there are times when they will not know what equipment needs to be mounted in the vehicle until the installation process begins.

Utilizing strategically positioned perforations on the side plates of the RAM Angled Console, the box can be easily resized to accommodate the exact needs of each specific vehicle. Using a standard set of tools, modifications can be made on-site to reduce installation times and keep costs down. Beyond being able to change the length, these consoles also offer openings for cooling fans, accommodate 12-volt power panels for wiring accessories, and have a variety of mounting hole patterns around the perimeter for mounting additional items such as GPS or cell phones.

In addition, the Angled Console is delivered in pieces rather than as a large, bulky product. This equates to less shipping costs and inventory space which all equates to saving money and time. Although these changes may seem almost insignificant, every penny saved is money that can go to paying salaries, advancing technologies and keeping Americans employed. Now more than ever it is important to consider these facts and assure that decisions are made in the best interest of the organization from an economic and operational standpoint.

David Wilkinson is part of the marketing and design team of RAM Mounting Systems in Seattle, Washington. With a background in science and technical writing, his job is to assist in product design and advertising. Finding new markets and attracting new customers is Wilkinson's focus for 2009.