“Microtron completely takes technical challenges off our hands. That’s simply very pleasant business.”
– Johan Herkendaal, co-owner Vanderkooij Telecommunicatie
Who is Vanderkooij Telecommunicatie?
Since its founding in 1994, Vanderkooij Telecommunicatie (VDK) has specialized in telecom systems for large professional clients, such as defense, public transport, police, and fire services. When Johan Herkendaal and his partner Hans Geelen took over the company in 2004, the services evolved further from voice communication to comprehensive systems that also process data and video content.
“Where it used to be purely voice communication, data communication was added after our takeover. Today we even offer complex video solutions,” explains Johan Herkendaal.
Communication on the Right Track
This growth also changed their customers’ needs. “Our customers had increasingly complex requirements, such as railway certifications and specific defense standards,” says Johan. “We had to look for reliable, industrial IT solutions. During a trade fair in Belgium, we came into contact with Microtron, and there we found exactly what we needed.”
With extensive experience in industrial hardware and our ability to develop customized solutions for demanding environments, we distinguish ourselves from others. This immediately made Microtron the ideal partner for VDK.
From Control Buttons to Smart Touchscreen Operation
A great example of the collaboration is the project for Amsterdam’s Municipal Transport Company (GVB). “We used to work with simple control panels with physical buttons. Microtron helped us switch to advanced PC boards with railway certification, fully adapted to the strict requirements for rail transport,” explains Johan.
The ability to not only deliver the right product, but also to integrate it into GVB’s existing infrastructure was a great added value in the collaboration. We provided a solution that withstands vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged intensive use – all crucial for public transport systems.
“This step enormously improved ease of use,” says Johan. “Moreover, thanks to the touchscreen functionality, we could integrate new features such as messaging and status updates. That delivered immediately noticeable benefits for users.”
One Screen Says more than a Thousand Words
We at Microtron also play an important role for VDK in defense projects. Johan mentions a concrete example of communication equipment on naval ships: “Previously, people operated multiple separate screens, which was confusing and also very error-prone. Microtron worked with us to find a PC board that centralizes all operation on one robust touchscreen.”
For another touchscreen solution, Microtron’s engineers had the OS of a robust PC board modified to make the PC board suitable for defense use. The screen withstands shocks, vibrations, and moisture, and meets strict defense requirements. This kind of technical refinement illustrates how Microtron goes beyond standard solutions – we deliver customized solutions that are fully tailored to the customer.
Trouble-free Collaboration
Vanderkooij Telecommunicatie highly values the collaboration with Microtron. Microtron’s expertise and proactive collaboration makes us a reliable technical partner.
“What we especially appreciate in the collaboration with Microtron is their ability to actively collaborate and provide sustainable solutions. For those looking for a technical partner that does more than just deliver, Microtron is an excellent choice,” says Johan from Vanderkooij Telecommunicatie.
VDK’s customers also notice the difference: “Our customers are absolutely satisfied,” confirms Johan. “They get much more functionality, flexibility, and ease of use thanks to this collaboration.”
