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Ionic - Search Vehicles

This article explains how to use the Search Vehicles function on the OPS-COM for Android application. This feature is the primary tool for field personnel to look up vehicle information by license plate or VIN, verify parking permit status, and initiate enforcement actions. This guide is intended for operators of OPS-COM handheld units.

Using this Feature

The Vehicle Search function is a core component of the handheld application and does not require special configuration.

Connection Status Indicator A colored dot at the top of the search panel indicates the device's connection status:

  • Green Dot: The unit is connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular network (3G/LTE).

  • Yellow Dot: The unit is not connected. Searches can still be performed using cached data, but the information may not be real-time.

Performing a Vehicle Search

From the main menu, tap Search Vehicles.

There are three methods for entering vehicle information: text input, voice command, and the device camera (LPR/OCR).

Text Search

  • On the Vehicle Search screen, tap the text field to activate the on-screen keypad.

  • Enter the full license plate number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

  • Tap the Search button.

  • Tap the microphone icon to activate the voice recognition feature.

  • When the prompt appears, clearly speak the license plate number. The system will transcribe the speech into the search field.

  • Tap the Search button.

LPR/OCR Camera Search

  • Tap the camera icon to enter LPR (License Plate Recognition) search mode.

  • Position the device's camera so the vehicle's license plate is aligned within the on-screen rectangle.

  • Tap and hold the screen to capture an image of the plate.

  • The system will analyze the image and display a list of possible plate numbers.

  • Tap the correct plate number from the list to initiate the search.

Reviewing Search Results

After a successful search, the vehicle and permit details will appear below the search area. Tapping on the vehicle record expands a yellow ribbon, revealing available actions.

Available Actions & Buttons

  • Virtual Chalk: Tap this button to apply a virtual chalk to the vehicle, logging its current location and time for time-limit enforcement.

  • Issue Violation: Tap this button to proceed directly to the violation issuance screen for this vehicle.

  • Details: Tap this button to view a comprehensive screen with all permit and vehicle details.

You can also tap directly on the permit information displayed under the license plate for a quick view of its expiry details.

Best Practices & Considerations

  • Offline searches are possible thanks to the device's data cache, but always connect to a network when possible to ensure you are working with the most current data.

  • For best results with the LPR/OCR camera search, ensure the license plate is well-lit, clean, and fills as much of the alignment rectangle as possible.

  • For the most accurate voice search results, speak clearly in an environment with minimal background noise.

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