A mobile data terminal (MDT) is a computerized device used in emergency services, public transport, taxicabs, package delivery, roadside assistance, and logistics to communicate with a central dispatcher. It is a rugged, portable computing device that sends, receives, and displays digital information in mobile environments. MDTs are typically installed in vehicles or carried by field personnel.
MDTs provide real-time data input, communication, and task management for field workers. They are installed in vehicles or carried by personnel, and they link field operators to a dispatch centre. The device must withstand vehicle use and run continuously while receiving and displaying dispatch data.
Key specifications for an MDT
A mobile data terminal typically needs the following:
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A rugged, portable housing for vehicle or field installation
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A processor and memory capable of running dispatch and task software
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Storage for operating system, applications and logged data
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A power input suited to vehicle or external supply
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Wired serial ports for connection to vehicle systems and peripherals
Comparison of MDT configurations
| Requirement | Common MDT need | Thinvent IPC3 range |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Multi-core for dispatch and task software | Intel Core i3-1215U, 6 cores, up to 4.4 GHz |
| Memory | Enough RAM for concurrent applications | 16 GB DDR4 |
| Storage | Local storage for software and records | 1 TB SSD |
| Power | Vehicle or external DC supply | 12V 7A adapter |
| Serial connection | Legacy vehicle and peripheral links | Quad DB9 Serial option |
Use cases
MDTs serve emergency services, public transport, taxi fleets, package delivery, roadside assistance, and logistics operators. Each use case requires a device that runs dispatch software, stores data locally, and connects to vehicle or field equipment.
Thinvent products for mobile data terminal use
The Thinvent Industrial PC IPC3 range includes an Intel Core i3-1215U processor, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, a 1 TB SSD, and a 12V 7A adapter. Models are available with Windows 11 Professional, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 IoT Value, DOS, or Thinux Embedded Linux. Models with the Quad DB9 Serial option add four DB9 serial ports. All models in this range have no WiFi.
