Approval is requested for the award of a contract to Motorola Electronics of San Mateo for thirty-four mobile mounting systems for notebook computers for the Information Technology Department (ITD)

As part of the Department of Public Safety radio system upgrade, the existing mobile data terminals (MDTs) in Public Safety patrol vehicles are to be replaced with notebook computers. The vehicle mounting system selected for the new notebook computers is important, not only from an ergonomic perspective, but also to address functional and safety issues, such as driver visibility and driver and passenger-side airbag operation.

Department of Public Safety staff participated in a two-month evaluation process whereby the three best known notebook mounting systems were reviewed and tested by eight Public Safety Officers. Of the three systems tested (Led Company, Gamber-Johnson and Havis-Shields), the Led Company mounting system proved far superior for the Panasonic "Toughbook" notebooks selected by the City.

The Led Company system is designed specifically for the Panasonic product and meets all safety and functionality requirements. In addition, the Led Company system enables each notebook to be connected from the bottom instead of from the back as connected by other systems. This provides a more durable and reliable connection that is less prone to accidental disconnect. Finally, the Led Company mount has been satisfactorily field tested by the City of San Francisco Police Department who is using it on their entire fleet.

Specifications were developed by ITD and Purchasing staff, and Invitation for Bids #F9901-55 was made available to computer mounting/police supply firms. Although four bids were received, Motorola Electronics of San Mateo, California, was the only bidder offering the specified Led Company product.

Electro Comm West of Van Nuys, California, offered the Gamber-Johnson system; and Custom-Fit, Inc., of Chantilly, Virginia, and Professional Police Supply of Oakland, California, both offered their own "in-house" brands. As the result, their bids must be rejected as non-responsive.

Staff has determined that bid pricing from Motorola Electronics is reasonable and recommends award of contract to Motorola as the only responsive bidder.

Total cost to the City for thirty-four mobile computer mounting systems for Public Safety patrol vehicles will be $60,190 (tax and freight included). Funds are available in ITD Account #021100-5050.

It is recommended the Council award a contract in the amount of $60,190 to Motorola Electronics of San Mateo, California, for thirty-four mobile computer mounting systems for the Information Technology Department and authorize the Purchasing Officer to issue a purchase order to that effect.

Prepared by:

Elaine Wesely
Purchasing Officer

Review by:

Mary Bradley
Director, Finance

Review by:

Shawn Hernandez
Director, Information Technology

Approved by:

Robert S. LaSala
City Manager