S.C. city turns fire trucks into WiFi hot spots

From the Newberry Observer: The city of Newberry, S.C., has contracted with In Motion to implement the onBoard system to leverage public and private network infrastructure for a citywide VoIP system.

The new system allows the city’s vehicles essentially become mobile hot spots, or nodes, that mesh with the city’s wireless computer network and, when outside the current footprint of the network, the ability to maintain connectivity with it through a cellular (Verizon) air card.

By having the system city workers can file reports, access work orders and other documents, and view maps, photographic images and the like while in the field and without need of a return trip to the office.

Newberry operates a wireless mesh network and VoIP system to support the police and fire, public works, utility, parks, recreation and tourism departments.