The new Tripmaster DT-120 onboard computer can be ordered with or without an integrated GPS receiver for automatically calculating vehicle location information. If purchased without the GPS option, the tracking receiver can be added at a later date if fleets decide they would like to take advantage of the system's automated fuel tax recording and electronic driver log functions. The DT-120 replaces the DataTrax II, which could not be ordered without GPS.
The company is also offering all registered Tripmaster users a free upgrade for its PC-based Windows fleet management software package. InfoTrax V1.7 includes improved report filtering, new editing features, and updated codes for linking data to other applications using Microsoft's ODBC standard.
For more information on both the upgraded software and new OBC, visit Tripmaster's web site (www.tripmaster.com) or circle 273 on reader reply card.
The Trailer Div. of Lufkin Industries says it will utilize @Track Communication's TrackWare mobile asset-tracking technology to monitor trailers involved in testing a new floor system. The trailers outfitted with the new floors will be tested under actual day-to-day shipping conditions throughout the U.S. by various carriers.
The TrackWare units work by combining global positioning system (GPS) satellite location capabilities and wireless control channel messaging to enable Lufkin to track the exact location of each trailer.
The manufacturer will use the location data to schedule inspections of the flooring system for the duration of the test.
DPL Telemetry Technologies has agreed to use Aeris.net's MicroBurst technology to provide low-cost, wireless messaging services for its VMS-100 Vehicle Monitoring System, which collects vehicle maintenance information and tracks vehicle movements using GPS. MicroBurst sends data over the unused control channel of analog cellular telephone networks.
A full "forms-based" interface for the Terion wireless communications system is now available for McLeod Software's LoadMaster dispatch and ETA out-of-route applications. The interface allows load records, routing requests, payroll inquiries, and other data to be transmitted over Terion's network and imported into the McLeod programs.
Transportation Partners.com (www.transportationpartners.com) has introduced an integrated suite of real-time, web-based freight management tools, including pay-per-use load matching, tracking, quoting and billing for freight brokers.
TruckLink is a new wireless communication system from Mack Trucks Inc. that will provide diagnostic, maintenance and vehicle location information to truck operators.
Available for aftermarket installation on all makes and models of Mack trucks, the TruckLink system is designed to provide both fleets and owner-operators with easy access to real-time maintenance information, as well as help detect, capture and store data associated with the vehicle's engine, powertrain and antilock braking systems. TruckLink also allows users to use global positioning sensors to pinpoint the precise location of their vehicles.
TruckLink was developed for Mack by McCarney Technologies Inc., based in British Columbia, Canada. On-road maintenance support is provided by Diagnostic Hotline, a company that supplies technical repair advice via a call-center support system.
TruckLink's components include a driver display, low-profile dual antenna, anti-theft protection device, and a Motorola three-watt analog cellular phone. TruckLink also records equipment operation data in 30-sec. increments, 15 sec. before and after a violation of any monitored parameter occurs. TruckLink also comes equipped with a backup battery in the event of a malfunction in the vehicle's electrical system.
Visit www.macktrucks.com for more information, or circle 306 on reader reply card.
Ryder System has launched a web site (www.usedtrucks.ryder.com) for the sale of used commercial equipment, ranging from pickups to tractors and trailers.
Dwight Denny, vp-asset management, says the company developed the site to meet the needs of both first-time truck buyers and professional fleet buyers.
In addition to providing photos of vehicles currently available at Ryder's used truck centers, the new site extends visibility into Ryder's own supply chain by including vehicles that are coming up for sale in the near future.
