Mounting a Handheld PC in a Vehicle with RAM Mounts

Quick answer

To mount a handheld PC in a vehicle, start by selecting a base that fits your mounting surface, then pair it with a RAM arm of the right length, and finish with a holder designed for your specific device model.

Step-by-step: Mounting a handheld PC in your vehicle

1. Choose your base mount: Select a base that matches your mounting surface: a drill-down plate for flat surfaces, a yoke clamp for roll bars, or a U-bolt base for round tubing. The RAM Composite Yoke Clamp Mount (product 2709864) fits rails from .625" to 1.25" without drilling. Common mistake: using a base that doesn't match the surface profile, leading to instability. Measure your mounting point diameter first.
2. Select the arm length: RAM offers short, medium, and long arms. A medium arm (like the one included with product 2709860) provides enough reach for most cab layouts while minimizing vibration. Longer arms introduce more flex. Checkpoint: test the arm's range of motion before finalizing. The arm should allow the screen to be within easy reach but not obstruct driving or controls.
3. Attach the device holder: For a universal fit, use the spring-loaded holder from product 2709860. For a specific device like the Zebra TC8000/8300, use the Quick-Draw cradle (product 2709863) which locks the scanner securely yet releases with a single hand. Common mistake: overtightening the holder can crack the device housing or prevent easy removal. Follow the manufacturer's torque guidelines.
4. Secure the ball-and-socket joint: Tighten the socket's locking knob until the arm holds position under the device's weight. The B size 1" ball system (used in product 2709864) is rated for up to 2 lbs, which covers most handheld PCs. Checkpoint: after tightening, try to move the arm. It should hold firm but still allow repositioning. If it slips, tighten further; if it won't move, loosen slightly.
5. Route cables and test: Plug in any charging or data cables, then route them away from moving parts. Power on the handheld PC and verify the screen is readable from the driver's seat. Final check: drive over a bumpy surface and observe the mount. If the device vibrates excessively, consider a shorter arm or a dampened base.

Handheld PC mounts mentioned in this guide

• RAM® Double Ball Drill-Down Mount with Universal Spring Loaded Holder: The RAM-B-138-PD2U consists of a Medium length B-size arm with a 2.5" diameter round plate with universal AMPS hole pattern and our Universal Spring Loaded Holder for PDA Devices. This mount works with a wide variety of handheld devices thanks to the universal spring-loaded holder, but may not be as snug as a model-specific cradle.

  

• RAM® Composite Yoke Clamp Mount for Trimble TDS Ranger: The RAM Composite Yoke Clamp Mount for Trimble TDS Ranger uses a yoke clamp base that fits rails from .625" to 1.25" in diameter, paired with a medium-length arm and a B size 1" ball system rated to hold up to 2 lbs. The yoke clamp attaches directly to vehicle roll bars or tubing without drilling, and the 2 lb capacity is sufficient for most handheld PCs.

  

• RAM® Quick-Draw™ Mount for Zebra TC8000/8300 with Double U-Bolt Base: This RAM Quick-Draw is designed specifically for the Zebra TC8000 and TC8300 scanners using a unique spring loaded mechanism that holds strong, yet provides easy removal for storage. The spring-loaded cradle allows one-handed docking and removal, ideal for workers who frequently stow the scanner between uses.