Plumbing Contractor Saves $10,000 and Improves Service with CradlePoint

DJ Data Solutions Installs CradlePoint Routers in Service Trucks and Saves Plumbing Contractor the Pain of Buying New Handhelds and Migrating Wireless Providers

SITUATION

DJ Data Solutions provides custom software development and handheld applications in Madison, Wisconsin. One of its clients—Benjamin Plumbing—has a four-truck service fleet. Each truck carries about 2,500 parts in inventory that are bar coded for pricing. The company wanted its service field techs to be able to use their existing MC9000 handheld scanners to scan bar codes of parts used on service calls.

Then, the techs would use the MC9000 scanners to print invoices on the spot using wireless printers installed in the trucks. In addition, the company wanted to be able to send scheduling updates and new job tickets to the MC9000 scanners while the techs were out on the road. Finally, Benjamin Plumbing wanted it all to communicate with their back-end accounting software.

CHALLENGE

David Harrison, President of DJ Data Solutions, faced a number of issues. The MC9000 scanners the company owned—while Wi-Fi enabled—were not equipped to communicate using 3G / broadband mobile service. This prevented them from connecting directly with the office. Scanners that did have 3G / broadband mobile

The CradlePoint MBR1100 enables VPN sessions over the Internet. The MBR1100 instantly creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that any Wi-Fi enabled device can connect to—laptop, camera, PDA, etc. The MBR1100 then connects the devices to the Internet via 3G/4G mobile broadband using an EVDO ExpressCard or USB air card. It can also use a DSL or cable modem landline to connect to the Internet.

I N A C T I O N

Page 19
Image 19
Cradlepoint MBR1200, PHS300, CBA250 manual A C T I O N

MBR1200, CBA250, PHS300 specifications

Cradlepoint is renowned for its robust mobile and wireless networking solutions, and its products like the PHS300, CBA250, and MBR1200 are representative of this innovation. These devices cater to different networking needs, making them essential in a variety of environments.

The Cradlepoint PHS300 is a portable 3G mobile hotspot designed for users who require reliable internet access on the go. This device supports multiple connections simultaneously, typically allowing up to 32 Wi-Fi enabled devices to connect. What sets the PHS300 apart is its compact design, making it ideal for travel or use in remote locations. It operates on a rechargeable battery, which can provide several hours of connectivity. With its user-friendly interface, setup becomes seamless, often eliminating the need for extensive technical knowledge. Additionally, the device supports USB connectivity for easier charging and provides support for various 3G networks, broadening its usage.

The CBA250, on the other hand, is tailored for branch and small business environments. This device functions as a fixed cellular broadband router, integrating various functionalities to ensure seamless connectivity. The CBA250 supports LTE networks, providing users with enhanced speed and reliability. One of its standout features is the ability to easily switch between cellular and Ethernet WAN connections, offering redundancy and ensuring a continuous internet experience. The device is equipped with advanced security features, including VPN, firewall, and IPSec encryption, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of business data. Furthermore, its cloud management capabilities allow administrators to manage and monitor the network remotely, optimizing performance and security measures effortlessly.

Lastly, the MBR1200 offers a versatile WAN optimization solution, ideal for both home and business use. This router supports 3G/4G LTE, making it a suitable option for users in areas with unreliable broadband. It features dual WAN capability, allowing users to combine multiple internet sources for increased speed and reliability. With support for up to 32 devices simultaneously, the MBR1200 caters to various needs while also maintaining high throughput speeds. Its built-in firewall, along with advanced security protocols, ensures a safe networking environment. With easy setup and management through a web interface, users experience straightforward deployment of their networks.

Each of these Cradlepoint devices brings unique features and capabilities, designed to meet the connectivity demands of an increasingly mobile and digitally-driven world. Whether for individual use, small businesses, or branch offices, Cradlepoint provides versatile solutions that ensure reliable internet connectivity.