Fleets and others will be able to develop their own applications for PeopleNet's g3 onboard computer under a new web services architecture set for release early next year, according to the company. The new open-platform technology will support adding any “smart” device with its own operating system and a USB port interface to the PeopleNet OBC.
The new g3 Services could enable such applications and devices as in-cab navigation, handheld computers, portable fax machines and RFID readers among others, according to PeopleNet. In general, the open-platform approach means faster development of custom solutions for customers of the company's OBC and wireless communications services, says Brian McLaughlin, vp of marketing.
The company has also announced that it will offer three optional upgrades to the g3 system early next year. Decision tree forms will allow fleets to develop complex forms that can be filled in quickly by drivers. A bar code scanner option, either tethered to the g3 unit or operating wirelessly using Bluetooth, will be the first USB peripheral offered for the OBC. And an update to the PACOS geofencing feature will improve automated arrival and departure notifications, according to PeopleNet.
The software for all three new options will be delivered to the onboard units remotely using the company's over-the-air-programming (OTAP).
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