PeopleNet Releases Next-Generation Onboard Computer: PeopleNet g3
Multi-network, Open, Smart Platform Provides Framework for Fleet of the Future
LAS VEGAS - ATA Management Conference & Exhibition, Oct. 5, 2004 - PeopleNet, the leading provider of mobile communications and onboard computing systems to North American transportation operations, today has released its next-generation onboard computer: PeopleNet g3TM. PeopleNet g3 leverages multiple wireless networks - digital and analog - to provide up to 500 times the bandwidth of first-generation satellite systems.
PeopleNet g3 is the result of months of field testing and input from PeopleNet's product advisory council, a group of customers that help define and align PeopleNet's product development initiatives with industry needs.
"PeopleNet g3 is designed and built based on direct customer feedback," said Ron Konezny, Chief Operating Officer, PeopleNet. "Based on their input, we've created the ultimate platform, which is multi-network, open, and smart to help fleets multi-task and automate key processes across their operations. The barriers of bandwidth, memory, peripherals, applications and integration all have gone away. PeopleNet g3 opens the door to limitless possibilities. We're providing fleets with the tools and applications to take their operations exactly where they want them to go."
PeopleNet g3 represents a convergence of mobile communications, onboard computing and fleet management to offer these key enhancements:
Multi-network communications, capable of providing:
Significant bandwidth - up to 144 kbps, compared to up to 0.3 kbps for first-generation satellite systems. PeopleNet g3 allows fleets to run data-intensive applications such as in-cab mapping and document scanning.
Cost-effective communications across the supply chain. PeopleNet g3 is the lowest cost per kilobyte solution available.
Reliable multi-network coverage, including digital cellular communications with analog support for ubiquitous coverage even in remote areas.
Unparalleled flexibility, with multiple data plans and the option for voice services.
Open architecture platform, capable of providing:
Numerous connectivity options through a Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) port. This supports expanded memory and peripherals such as multi-media message displays and handhelds, in-cab scanners and printers, Wi-Fi access points, biometric scanners, and more.
Software scalability with custom-PeopleNet and third-party applications through an open application program interface (API) currently supporting more than 40 third-party interfaces.
Access from any Internet-enabled device to fleet information and applications through the Web-based PeopleNet Fleet Manager.
Over-the-air-programming (OTAP), a patent-pending capability that allows vehicles to be updated with new applications wirelessly, without having to pull off the road, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations and nearly eliminating obsolescence.
Smart onboard computer, capable of providing:
Precise GPS location data with the addition of Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) technology. Precision GPS improves the performance of existing applications, including landmark management, activity standards, PACOS geo-fencing and more.
Significant processing power and memory that allow intelligence onboard. PeopleNet g3 gives way to enhancements to existing PeopleNet applications and new breakthroughs that require advanced onboard computing functionality.
Industry leading, advanced applications like eDriver Logs, PACOS message automation and exception notification via geo-fencing, Activity Standards, on-demand driver directions, online fuel tax reporting, free driver e-mail, and PerformX engine diagnostics
PeopleNet g3 is available commercially October 2004. The system is backwards compatible with the PeopleNet g2x system allowing users to leverage existing applications. Through PeopleNet's patent-pending over-the-air programming (OTAP) capability, the company is able to provide fleets with new applications as they are available, without having to take their trucks off the road.
The PeopleNet system has become the standard for GPS-based location tracking, two-way voice and data communications, electronic driver logs, and Internet-based fleet business tools to provide consistent, reliable communication between business owners, dispatchers, drivers and shippers.
Headquartered in Minneapolis, PeopleNet is the fastest-growing provider of Internet-based onboard computing and mobile communications systems to the transportation industry, including truckload, LTL, private, and service fleets. The company serves carriers throughout the U.S. and Canada and has signed more than 1,000 customers since our inception 10 years ago. For more information about PeopleNet, call 888-346-3486, e-mail info@peoplenetonline.com, or visit www.peoplenetonline.com.
