Why the Right Laptop Matters: Field-Tested Performance with the Getac S510

By Trace Kendig, Technology Manager at Guardian Fleet Safety

As a former police officer, I know firsthand how vital it is to have the right tools at your fingertips when you're behind the wheel of a squad car. From responding to fast-moving incidents to handling routine paperwork, your laptop becomes your lifeline—both to dispatch and to the digital tools that keep officers informed, efficient, and safe.

That’s why I’m excited about the Getac S510.

This rugged laptop is a game-changer in the public safety space. It offers the largest screen size in its class—without being bulky—giving officers more usable screen real estate where it matters most: in the patrol car.

Big Screen. Big Advantage.

Officers who have tested the S510 consistently praise one thing: the screen.

Departments like the University of Minnesota Police Department have already ordered units to evaluate in the field, and Lakeville PD trialed one recently and raved about the display. The larger screen allows officers to truly work in a split-screen environment, running CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch) on one side and ticketing/report-writing software on the other.

That means no more toggling back and forth between critical systems while on patrol—just clear, fast access to what you need, when you need it.

Built for the Demands of Patrol

The S510 doesn’t just perform—it holds up.

Getac built this laptop for daily public safety use. It’s fully rugged, meaning it can take the bumps, heat, cold, and dust that come with the job. Plus, it’s customizable with must-have features like:

  • 5G connectivity

  • Built-in barcode scanner

  • RFID sign-on support for added security

When you're on scene or managing multiple tasks mid-shift, these features save time, reduce error, and help you stay focused on what matters most: the call in front of you.

The Bottom Line

When departments ask me for tech recommendations, I don’t just look at specs—I think about the officer in the car. The Getac S510 is a tool designed with that officer in mind. It's fast, rugged, and gives them the visibility and flexibility they need to do their job well.

If your department is planning vehicle builds or technology upgrades, the S510 should be on your radar. It’s more than a laptop—it’s a mission-critical tool.