Utilizing SIM/Internet Access and Remote Support on your Tablet - Best Practices

Internet access on your tablet has four key benefits:

1. Ability to access remote support from Hilti representatives, where available
2. Immediate access to the latest Software and Firmware updates
3. Access to email or cloud‑based files (reducing the need for USB file transfers)
4. Access to this knowledge base directly on the tablet

This article reviews each benefit and discusses relevant how‑to information, with linked articles, to help you fully benefit from SIM card or internet access on your tablet.

While this may not be a concern for POS 150/180 users, the PLT 300 and PLT 400 use Wi‑Fi to connect the tablet to the head unit. As a result, you must use an alternative internet connection in order to access the internet while also using the tool.

For example, if you need access to email, cloud files, remote support, or this knowledge base on the tablet while connected to and using the PLT units, one of the options below may help.

SIM Card:
The PLC 400 and PLC 600 tablets support SIM card connections. Whether the SIM is provided by Hilti or through a local data plan, having a SIM allows the tablet to maintain an internet connection even while connected to the tool via Wi‑Fi.

USB Wi‑Fi Adapter + Wi‑Fi Hotspot:
On Windows 10 and Windows 11 tablets (including PLC 400 and PLC 600 Windows tablets), it is possible to use a USB Wi‑Fi adapter to connect to an internet source (for example, a mobile hotspot) while the internal Wi‑Fi remains connected to the PLT head unit. Windows supports multiple simultaneous network interfaces and will route PLT traffic and internet traffic separately. Functionality depends on driver support and local IT restrictions; Hilti cannot guarantee functionality on USB Wi‑Fi adapters.

In both cases, internet availability and performance depend on the quality of the internet signal you are connecting to.

If neither option above works for your situation, accessing the internet may require temporarily disconnecting from the PLT. You can then connect to jobsite Wi‑Fi or a mobile hotspot, gather the information or support you need, and reconnect to the tool afterward.

Remote support is a benefit offered in many Hilti regions where total stations are sold, particularly in regions with a local back‑office. When available, support agents may log into your tablet via TeamViewer to assist with selected topics, such as basic diagnostics, workflow how‑to guidance, installation‑related questions, and limited file exchange.

 

Remote support is not guaranteed and is not intended for every support request. The availability and appropriateness of a remote session depends on the topic, the situation, and regional support capabilities.

 

To access remote support on your tablet, you will typically first speak with a support agent by phone. Based on the discussion, the agent will determine whether a remote session is the most effective way to continue and, if appropriate, will direct you to the Remote Support screen shown below (Settings > Support > Remote Support).

Once connected, the agent will be able to guide you through the relevant steps.

 

Important note: Support agents will often attempt to resolve issues via phone discussion first before opening a remote session, depending on what will be most efficient for your specific issue.

Activated SIM cards are especially helpful for conveniently accessing the latest Software and Firmware updates for the tool without needing to wait for access to a specific Wi‑Fi network. This allows you to check for and download available updates more easily while in the field, ensuring you can take advantage of the latest features and improvements as they become available.

In the past, most file transfers were conducted via USB, which could be frustrating if the file was not the most recent version or if accessing it required additional time to retrieve or locate it.

 

With a SIM or constant internet access on the tablet, files can be more easily synced or delivered through cloud services or email. Please see this article, for example, for guidance on setting up cloud services on your tablet.

 

Important note on data limits: Most SIM cards have data usage restrictions. When syncing cloud content to your tablet, it is recommended to sync only the specific folders or files relevant to your work. This helps avoid syncing large amounts of data that could unnecessarily consume your monthly data allowance.

 

Having the HCL knowledge base saved as a shortcut on your tablet home screen makes it easier to access help content such as articles, videos, or the AI chat bot associated with the knowledge base. Reliable internet access ensures you can access self‑support resources directly on the tablet, even while you are connected to the tool.