SA Police refreshing mobile terminals

South Australian Police (SAPOL) yesterday put out a call for hundreds of new mobile data terminals (MDTs) as well as support services for its operation.

The existing terminals, acquired in 2004, were coming to the end of their life as they were incompatible with new applications. The three-year contract, with two optional one-year extensions (subject to funding availability) would see them replaced with 440 units in the first three years and around another 200 in the optional years.

SAPOL wanted to keep current touchscreen capabilities in the new devices, but required additional software technology to improve reliability, efficiency and power consumption. It also wanted units with solid-state storage to reduce hard disk failure. Units requiring a large amount of retraining were not desired, however.

Other requirements included replacing current processor units, providing GPS-assisted automated vehicle location capability and Next-G wireless broadband functions as well as replacing or re-using current hardware including keyboards and displays.

The invitation to tender closes 19 February 2010.