Management

Turn Your Phone into a CAD Management Emergency Kit

13 Jul, 2011 By: Robert Green

Your mobile device can serve as a traveling toolbox if you stock it with the files you might need to install on a workstation.


More and more frequently, I'm called on to take care of non-CAD concerns such as removing viruses and malware, and updating the tools that detect these sorts of problems. Of course I also get asked about new plotter drivers, cool utilities, and all manner of other CAD issues as well.

When I visited clients' offices without my computer, I was often limited in my ability to address these types of problems because I lacked the files I needed. Of course, I carry a memory stick with all my emergency files in my laptop bag, but when I didn't have the bag, I was out of luck. What inevitably ensued was a frantic search via the Internet, and lots of time-consuming downloads.

Then one day, I realized what my BlackBerry actually is: a memory stick with a phone wrapped around it. The ability to store up to 4 GB of data with the same ease of use as a memory stick was something I hadn't thought of.

Now I store the emergency files I'm most likely to need on my BlackBerry at all times, and I keep a USB interface cable tucked into the notepad that I always carry to meetings. When I need some of my handy files, I simply plug my phone into the computer that needs help, and I'm in business. I've also found this method extremely useful for repairing hacked machines, since I don't have to worry about my phone getting a virus!

Admittedly, this simple technique is not rocket science, but it saves me a great deal of time and trouble. What emergency files should you have on your phone at all times?
 

Do you have a question or tip for the CAD Manager's Newsletter? Send it to me at rgreen@cad-manager.com; if I use it in the newsletter you'll receive a cool Cadalyst prize!
 


About the Author: Robert Green

Robert Green

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