A few questions regarding the Indiana DOT's InCors program.
Apparently this program is an alternative to a subscription based VRS. Has anyone had any experience with the data from this program? I'm assuming every thing is survey grade. If it weren't, INDOT would't promote it for survey use.
Also, does a standard data rate package with a cell phone (some motorola flip phone w/ bluetooth) work or is a tethering package needed?
Thanks.
Our company has been using the INCors for about a year. It is survey grade. We had to purchase sim cards for our base and rover units as well as a data plan package.
Our big issue is coverage, not from INCors but from AT&T/Cingular. The issue happens from 10:30-13:00. We will get spotty bandwith during those times, but not bad during others.
You are correct, it is survey grade and works fine.
The tethering is usually required, each wireless carrier calls it something different and most people at the stores don't know what you need.
Asking for a package that allows your phone to be used as a modem for a laptop to connect to the internet....they usually understand.
Hey, thanks for the great info guys. I am just finishing up my purchase of all of the requisite equipment to operate on the INCors system. Had to get a new data collector and cell phone...
The question I have that NOBODY at INDOT or any of the local equipment dealers can answer is this:
How much cell phone data is used when performing a RTN survey using this system? We're not busy lately (since 2008!), and don't really use the GPS a whole helluvalot, and I am trying to figure out if I can get away with a prepaid cell phone from AT&T or Verizon instead of shelling out $30/month for a two year data contract. Data cost is $0.01/KB on the prepaid deals. I could use my iPhone, but the battery life sucks.
Can anybody give me an estimate? Any recommendations on a cell phone model with Bluetooth DUN and great battery?
Thanks!
Remember, you don't just need a data plan, you need tethering. A data plan lets you access the internet from your cell phone. Tethering lets you connect your cellphone to other devices for internet access on that device. Make sure the prepaid plan allows for that.
I wish I could answer your question about data use ... but I have no idea.
Thanks for the reply Pseudo.
The geniuses at both AT&T and Verizon stores were of no use today. They had absolutely no clue what I was talking about. They were telling me that I needed a $50/month tethering plan. I know two other surveyors that get along fine with a 5 yr old Nokia brick phone. I know it doesn't require a damn $50 plan. I'll figure it out eventually, i guess.