Technology

PeopleNet adds WiFi to Tablet, unveils enhanced navigation

March 6, 2012

KISSIMMEE, FL. PeopleNet president Brian McLaughlin introduced the company’s new secure, fleet-managed wireless Internet (WiFi) access and web browsing capability for its popular Tablet computing solution here at the Truckload Carriers Assn.’s Annual Convention.

“The addition of WiFi to cell and satellite communications provides fleets another option for efficiently communicating and exchanging data with their drivers,” he said. “PeopleNet’s proxy server ensures that all devices and stored data are secure and that data sent to the driver is scanned for potential viruses.”

The newly added WiFi capability can enable drivers to access their fleet’s corporate site as well as key parts of company intranets, such as payroll systems and training applications. Fleets determine whether Internet access is provided solely through company WiFi networks or via public hot-spot access. Fleets can also determine which other sites will be pre-approved for driver access.

“This opens up a whole new method of delivering content to drivers,” McLaughlin told Fleet Owner. “It is especially good for fleets because the communications are secure and the carriers manage which sites their drivers can access.”

WiFi connectivity combined with the Tablet’s portability offers drivers the opportunity to connect to a wireless network from virtually anywhere, including inside a truckstop, or at any hot spot, where there may be a stronger, faster, more reliable Internet connection away from the vehicle, according to the company.

The company also unveiled new enhancements for its In-Cab Navigation system powered by Maptuit’s NaviGo. The new capabilities are designed to reduce fuel expenses due to out-of-route miles. Route Compliance compares the GPS trail to individual NaviGo routes via daily or weekly route compliance reports.

Integrated fleets can deploy Dispatch Compliance, which focuses on complete dispatches to all delivery points as created by the back-office dispatch system. It is designed to identify out-of-route miles for each driver, whether or not they requested directions.

“We are essentially talking about geo-corridors here,” McLaughlin said. “There are certainly safety ramifications, but the real ROI comes from fuel savings.”

About the Author

Wendy Leavitt

Wendy Leavitt joined Fleet Owner in 1998 after serving as editor-in-chief of Trucking Technology magazine for four years.

She began her career in the trucking industry at Kenworth Truck Company in Kirkland, WA where she spent 16 years—the first five years as safety and compliance manager in the engineering department and more than a decade as the company’s manager of advertising and public relations. She has also worked as a book editor, guided authors through the self-publishing process and operated her own marketing and public relations business.

Wendy has a Masters Degree in English and Art History from Western Washington University, where, as a graduate student, she also taught writing.