Getac Z710 tablet expands pan-European airport security for ICTS

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Aviation security provider ICTS Europe has expanded its use of the Getac Z710 rugged tablet across European airports, with the devices now responsible for collecting and processing the data for 12,000 passengers every day.

ICTS Europe uses the 7" rugged Android tablet to take security checks to customers, cutting down queues at more than 25 airports worldwide. The security provider initially deployed 250 tablets in 2013, but following early success, has increased that to 328 units, including 20 at Heathrow Terminal 2. Jason Spencer, Product Manager, ICTS Europe says using the Getac tablet has dramatically reduced the time it takes to conduct security checks for passengers, and its rugged build is already offering an improved total cost of ownership.

He says: "We used to rely on standard laptops, but these needed to be replaced numerous times due to damage through falls and general fatigue. In our initial trial of 250 Z710s, we only had to replace one device. You can throw them around, and they survive. So although they are more expensive up-front, it has been a cost-effective decision in the long run. There really is no comparison."

ICTS staff carry a Getac Z710 tablet connected to a 3M mini passport reader and are able to take security checks to passengers in terminals and at gates, rather than making passengers come to them. The Z710 reads the passport and sends the information wirelessly to the ICTS server, where data is checked; the results of the passport check is almost instantly relayed to the device and ICTS staff can react accordingly – meaning passenger processing can be completed within seconds.

The Getac Z710 is perfectly designed for airport operations. Built to Getac's unrelenting rugged standards, it is MIL-STD-810G and IP65 certificated, making it suitable for rough handling and protected against dust and water ingress.

Another key feature is the anti-glare screen, which make the units easier to use in variable light conditions that are found in airports – from sunny departure gates to the artificial lighting of check-in areas.

The long battery life means that units will last for an entire shift without the need for re-charging. Compatibility with bespoke software packages also makes the Z710 an ideal choice for ICTS.

"We have had no problems at all, and Getac have given good support when we have been developing software and applications, so the Z710 will definitely be our tablet of choice for our online operations in the future," says Spencer.

Thanks to the Android 4.1 Operating System, the Getac Z710 also offers a more fluid and smooth operation experience for users, improved security features, Google Play and other Google Mobile Services.

Peter Molyneux, President, Getac UK, says: "The Getac Z710 was designed for such an application and gives the added value to our customers' business. We are very pleased with the performance the Z710 has given to ICTS supported by the total cost of ownership."