Las Vegas. PeopleNet has added a new trailer tracking system that requires no additional trailer hardware beyond the vehicle’s onboard computer. PeopleNet’s tethered trailer tracking solution was unveiled this week at the Truckload Carriers Assn. Annual Convention here.
“Our tethered trailer tracking solution uses the existing Power Line Communication (PLC) cable for exchanging data between the trailer’s ABS (anti-lock brake system) and the PeopleNet system through the multi-bus adapter with a PLC chip,” said Rick Ochsendorf, executive vice president of operations. “This configuration provides the most cost-effective trailer tracking solution for reducing the cost of lost trailers, eliminating manual yard checks, managing trailer detention, and improving utilization information for more efficient maintenance. In addition to being easy to use, there also is significant saving in time-consuming installation and labor cost. Since a typical fleet has around a 2:1 trailer-to-tractor ratio that can be tremendous.”
The solution uses the PeopleNet onboard computer system. Once connected to the tractor, the trailer’s unique serial number is sent to the system, which in turn creates location-based hook and drop events for the trailer. Event information is stored, including the date/time, location, vehicle and trailer odometer reading. Odometer readings, in particular, provide a history that enables accurate usage-based maintenance, PeopleNet said.
