Gamber-Johnson, a manufacturer of rugged docking stations and vehicle mounting solutions, announced the release of a new Universal Computer Cradle, the NotePad V — a rugged mounting cradle designed for most of the computers currently in the marketplace. The NotePad V is the next version of the company’s universal computer cradles dating back to the original release of the NotePad in 1995.
“When the new Notepad V was designed, we kept five crucial areas of importance in mind – security, function, safety, aesthetics and installation,” says Tom O’Brien, Gamber-Johnson product manager. “Using each of the five crucial areas as guidelines, we were able to improve upon our current NotePad IV cradle design and still keep the features that had made the NotePad series so popular. In the last 13 years, over Gamber-Johnson has deployed over 72,000 cradles.”
Security features include “flanged” side clips for superior strength; computers cannot be removed by bending the side clip. A new heavy-duty keyed lock securely closes the chassis when activated; and the computer is supported on all sides by strengthened clip design.
Using the same quick and easy size adjustment feature from the NotePad III and IV series, the highly functional NotePad V cradle easily can adjust to computer widths from 10.62 to 16.5 inches, thicknesses up to 1.5 inches, and depths from 9 to 12.38 inches. T-molded polycarbonate covers hold clips in place during installation for easy height adjustment, while reversible front and back supports adjust to accommodate narrower computers and netbooks. Sliding mounting plates on the underside of the cradle make mounting easy and allow for multiple offset options in the vehicle. All restraints are adjusted by using one tool, with easy-in and easy-out ease of use. The chassis surface provides a level clamping surface for the computer and prevents it from rocking in the cradle and keeps it in place even on the roughest terrain.
Safety features include gusseted rear support brackets that allow for added restraint; no catch points, no pinch points and no sharp corners; a lock-and-slide mechanism cycle-tested for 10,000 cycles; and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 30 mph front and side impact tested and passed.
The smooth surface of the anodized aluminum finish, rounded edges and sleek design enhance user comfort and safety. Installation is simple, with one-handed operation for inserting and removing the computer from the cradle. The computer setup is efficient and can be done in five minutes or less; once installed, there is no need to remove the cradle if computers are switched, and adjustments are done quickly and effortlessly.
