How easily can it be replaced?

I have found that the replacement of spikes (quills) or encased strips is very easily accomplished.

What are the long-term costs (beyond the initial investment)?

Replacement spikes (quills) for some are relatively inexpensive since you only replace the spikes hit by the tires during the deployment. With the encased strips, the manufacturer has a free replacement program for three years after the date of purchase. If the department using the TDD provides the manufacturer with a data sheet outlining the deployment facts, the stick is replaced for free.

Can this product be used effectively on any size vehicle and in all road conditions?

There are a number of TDD systems available on the market. Generally all the systems utilize spikes of at least two inches in length, that being said most systems will have some effect on the tires of most vehicles. Typically, officers are dealing with 4-wheel passenger vehicles, but a TDD will work on larger vehicles too. These systems are more effective when used on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, allowing the spikes to be pushed into the tire instead of the ground.

Will the product's construction hold up to the rigors of law enforcement use?

All TDD systems will withstand the punishment of a vehicle driving over them. To know how long a system will last through multiple deployments depends on each type of system and the circumstances of each deployment. Some systems are used over and over again after a quick replace of the quills (spikes) into the deployment housing. Other systems have the spikes encased in an enclosed strip and once it is used the strip is replaced.

What training is necessary before implementing this technology, and does the company offer any training?

Each manufacturer provides training videos to outline the key safety issues, techniques and maintenance of their product. Some manufacturers will provide limited training similar to what is covered in the training video. I have found the training videos to be of limited value and only provide a familiarization with the TDD. I have also found that it is necessary to have practical deployment training to have a clear understanding of the TDD deployment issues under real-life stressful situations. The fact is that most deployments occur when officers are racing to a location ahead of a pursuit. Officers are under heavy time constraints to arrive and activate the TDD before the speeding vehicle passes the location. All too frequently the deploying officer has only seconds to complete this task. The high-level of adrenaline factored by the tunnel vision effect are the critical elements that have contributed to the deaths of several officers. Each safety deployment step is crucial to follow, and without the proper training, missing just one of these steps could have a catastrophic ending.

Is the product easy to deploy?

All TDD's at face value appear to be easy to deploy. It is that misconception that increases the danger to officers. Under controlled situations when deploying the TDD, most officers are able to deploy the device in a manner that would be effective to deflate tires. Add the factor of adrenaline to the mix and we quickly found the techniques and safety considerations diminished drastically. There are some easy steps to ensure each TDD deploy is done properly; however these techniques should be trained and practiced to ensure officer safety.

Does the device install easily?

Some systems are installed in their own carrying case and others are mounted on the underside of the vehicle's trunk lid. Both systems have their advantages. The self-contained carrying case version allows for the systems to be more portable. Portability does allow for the TDD to be moved or buried in a trunk and not readily accessible. Systems mounted on the underside of the trunk lid are loaded and ready for deployment. These systems are not as portable because the mount tray for this device is key to the pre-deployment installation.