Field Sales/Engineers - Securing Demo Equipment In Your Vehicle?

Fortunately I have a car so everything is typically in my trunk but sometimes I have to put my backseat down for larger items. Usually at night if I have more than will fit in my trunk I will put it in my garage. Fortunately I live in an area where there aren't the typical break-ins unless you leave your vehicle unlocked which we have had that several times around us. Only took once to make sure and lock your vehicle and house even when you are home. I have though about the "Tiles" for the more expensive equipment or the cases my gear is in. Not sure how well that would work though as I haven't used these before.

I have my gear at the office, if needed it only makes a day trip to the demo site. Once I pack gear in the car it does add up and become a mess and risk to be stolen.

When it comes to cameras and access gear I use cradlepoint and a small switch clamped to a tripod to demo. All NUCs and VirtualBox servers remain at the office. It is easy to bring an android, iPhone, tablet and laptop to display the clients software.

All camera and local clients are port forwarded back to the office servers. In regards to access card reader I can forward those back to the bench panel as well using SecureLinx. This works for systems that do not have IP based reader or solutions. For instance you can connect your card reader to the Linx in the field and at the office simply hook it up to what ever ACP you are demonstrating, Lenel, Software House, Identiv etc. The Linx is a bit clunky at times but it works and is a smaller form factor than trying to lug around a large suitcase of access panels and an intel NUC.

SecureLinx:

SecureLINX Wiegand Interface Extender System

If you do not want the linx, then a Lenel 2220 works for mercury, IP-ACM for Software House, TS reader for Hirsch, HID EVO for ACS that support Evo. Otherwise you can use the linx.

To make a everything a fast set up you can also use TP-Link Nano routers to reduce cables and provide a wifi connection for your client devices. AP/CLIENT.

If you need a monitor, I use Gator Frameworks Tripod and Suitcase to tote my 42in. 4K around no problem.

Gator Frameworks:

Gator Frameworks Standard Adjustable Tripod LCD/LED TV Monitor stand for Screens up to 48" (GFW-AV-LCD-1)

I would hate to have my stuff stolen, when the car is packed I still worry even when I have to make a pitstop along the way.

What could you do to protect the vehicle while at home? We are hopefully closing on a new house in August (not G-D willing but Mortgage Company Willing!) and are looking to put up cameras.

We are 99% a Dahua shop and have a Milestone relationship. 

I was wondering what products we could use to protect the vehicles in our driveway? My son is working on his Jeep, lift kit, wheels, stereo etc. I would hate for anything to happen to his Jeep. When I was his age I had a mini-truck, big speakers, wheels, etc and I was always scared I would come out to a stripped or missing truck. Any analytics or alarm devices (other than vehicle alarms) we could use? Line crossing?

On a separate note, what kind of demos are you guys doing? Is this mostly manufacturers reps to dealers? We never demo hardware. We just include video in our proposals.

Thanks

I'm the type of sales engineer that carries more installation related equipment (measuring laser & tape, screwdriver to open cans, notepad, etc.), but when I was in investigations I often carried a ton of expensive equipment and sensitive information.

The only real way that I felt safe was literally carrying it inside with me.

Alternatively you could get a cellular GPS tracker which, although it requires a ~$300/yr subscription, would give you a location with a 10s-ish delay. I know you mentioned a Tile (I have one too) but your chances of finding anything is left up to a lot of chance in that case.

I am a manufacturers rep so I travel and carry demo equipment often. I drive a Ford Expedition.  I had the rear side window broken out and a monitor stolen. The big pain was I was 4 hours from home and was going to be there for 3 days so scheduling the window replacement was a pain. I now take my gear into the hotel every night. I load up the valet cart. I stay at the same hotels and they  no me well now so there is always a place to leave it by a door if I don't want to haul it all the way to the room. I also took out an insurance policy to cover the demo gear. It is around $175 per year. American Family classifies it as a Marine Policy for some reason.