Put me in coach, I’m ready to play … today!

If you want to make it in the big leagues of security installations and service, you’ll have to get outfitted with the proper tools and equipment. Only then can you become a field superstar.

“Take care of your tools and they’ll take care of you.” It appears most technicians in the field today still cling to that philosophy.

For the field tech, the tools of the trade range from simple hand tools to sophisticated diagnostic devices. Along with that, training and experience is also essential.

Tools Are an Extension of Your Hand

Hand tools are the bread and butter of the field tech. Much like a gunslinger keeps a trusty six-shooter strapped in a holster to his/her side, a seasoned installer keeps essential items within fingertips’ reach in a tool belt.

Required hand tools include: a variety of screwdrivers; wire cutters; various types of pliers, including needle-nose; wire strippers; side cutters; adjustable wrench; hammer; awl; tape measure; fish tape; crimpers; flashlight; hacksaw; staple gun; and pencils. Rubber grips are recommended to guard against electric shock.

Power Tools Propel Jobs Forward

Often times, a hand tool just doesn’t have enough muscle for a particular job or task. That’s where power tools come in.

Security work primarily requires only a few select power tools: cordless drill; hammer drill; and butane soldering iron.

Electronic Technology Helps Technicians

Electronic devices designed to assist the field tech range from basics, such as meters, to sophisticated innovations, such as laptop computers. At a minimum, you want to have a voltmeter, ohmmeter and signal-strength meter.

Field techs with an eye to the future are including a laptop computer in their mobile arsenal. As technology advances, the applications for laptops in the field are becoming more and more expansive.

New Devices Bridge Communication Gap

Electronic communication is another area that warrants attention. Field techs must have a means for keeping in touch with their main office and fellow techs, both at other work sites and, for large jobs, within the same site.

Today’s tech primarily communicates via two-way radios, pagers and cellular phones.

Clever Devices Reduce Labor Burden

Anything that increases productivity while decreasing effort is a Godsend for the field tech. So-called labor-saving devices, such as multipurpose hand tools or wire-running gadgets, have cropped up over the years.

Minivans Transportation of Choice

You’ve got all your tools and equipment together. Now, all you need is a fully stocked vehicle to transport you. Some field techs use pickup trucks or station wagons, but the overwhelming majority whisk from site to site in minivans.

Field vehicles typically contain shelves and bins stocked with tools, equipment as well as items such as: ladders; a small amount of inventory; various connectors; selection of wiring and cable; electrical tape; wire markers; saw blades; drill bits; dust mask; coveralls; safety goggles; extension cords; screws; nails; nuts and bolts; washers; plastic anchors; conduit; staples; insulated staples; tie wraps; solder; lights; first-aid kit; and maps.

Dress for Success, Comfort and Safety

When representing your company to the world, you want to make a professional impression. A neat, attractive uniform helps accomplish that goal.

Knowledge, Experience Complete the Package

The right tools and equipment are imperative, but to hit a home run every time up you’ll have to get the proper training and accruing on-the-job experience. Natural aptitude and a positive attitude are helpful, too.

The world of service and installation can be your field of dreams. Remember, if you prepare, success will come.

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