Laptops for in-shop use

sho_off

sho_off

Forum Member
What is everyone using for laptop computers in shop environment?

I am currently running 3 Toughbooks in an automotive shop and looking to add about 10 more; but wondering what is best for the price vs durability?
They will be relatively kept in good condition, but will be subject to dirty hands, possible oil/grease, etc, so durability is an issue.

Look for some input...
 
If they're left in place, I'd just use a cheap desktop with a mechanical keyboard. Mechanical keyboards can take tons of abuse, and most components on them are user-replaceable unlike the rubber dome keyboards commonly used today.
 
Tin said:
If they're left in place, I'd just use a cheap desktop with a mechanical keyboard. Mechanical keyboards can take tons of abuse, and most components on them are user-replaceable unlike the rubber dome keyboards commonly used today.
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This.

If they HAVE to be laptops get a toughbook or something that is made for being durable.
 
Toughbooks were all that we ever used. Even on our scanner/diagnostic station it was a Toughbook.


All it takes is one wrong move and you have a broken laptop. IIRC the toughbooks have the sealed keyboard to limit debris (huge deal)

I have seen quite a few ppl set a toughbook on the hood or roof and have it slide off, crash into the hoist or floor and pic it back up. a laptop would've exploded shooting keys everywhere and shattering the screen.

I guess the best question: what are you planning on doing if a tech breaks a computer? also, how many computers are you planning on buying to replace broken ones when it happens
 
Thanks for the input guys, they will be used / moved all the time, brought the cars, left on benches etc.. so toughbooks seems the way to go.

I'm thinking to have the techs partial buy into them in, with hopes that that way they will take greater care of them that way, but this could be an issue if they leave for another job....
 
Could you lease them to the worker at there choice or give them the option to buy their own shop compatible computer and you subsidize the cost?

Can't make them have it, but allow alternatives should they wish to make the work easier to accomplish?
 
Beigg said:
Could you lease them to the worker at there choice or give them the option to buy their own shop compatible computer and you subsidize the cost?

Can't make them have it, but allow alternatives should they wish to make the work easier to accomplish?
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I'd accept the shop assistance in buying my own for sure
 
sho_off said:
Thanks for the input guys, they will be used / moved all the time, brought the cars, left on benches etc.. so toughbooks seems the way to go.

I'm thinking to have the techs partial buy into them in, with hopes that that way they will take greater care of them that way, but this could be an issue if they leave for another job....
Click to expand...

what shop do you run? dealer or aftermarket
 
after getting tired of waiting for hours to use a company one I got an of lease Hp probook from Tonez last year. Been fine but then again Im the only one usuing it and most of the time it stays on my toolbox
 
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