OMNIEXPRESS, the newest vehicle tracking and communication system from Qualcomm Inc, is targeted at shorthaul fleets and local delivery fleets operating in metropolitan areas and along major highway corridors. Potential users include petroleum marketers and propane distributors.
Tailored to the characteristics of metropolitan operations, OmniExpress supports real-time, two-way data and voice communication; vehicle tracking; and effective information management. It gives fleet managers enhanced capabilities to increase productivity, optimize vehicle routing, and improve driver and cargo security.
The basic system comes with an Enhanced Display Unit (an easy-to-use keyboard), a ruggedized Terrestrial Communications Unit (TCU), and an integrated PCS/GPS antenna mounted on the vehicle roof. The 15-line by 40-character display supports both text and graphics.
The OmniExpress system uses Qualcomm's CDMA digital technology to provide data and voice communication and GPS vehicle positioning over the Sprint PCS network. Additional capabilities include complete software integration, robust data transmissions, store-and-forward messaging, and multiple-stop support.
Driving the system is QTRACS host software. Besides enabling two-way data communication and displaying vehicle locations on a street-level map, the software enables integration of data with other applications - route planning, dispatch, and accounting, among others. The software runs with Microsoft's Windows operating system.
QTRACS host software communicates via landline with Qualcomm's Network Management Center through the Internet or dial-up or leased-line configuration. The center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
A number of options are available with the OmniExpress system:
- The Enhanced Display Unit can be replaced by the MVPc, an in-vehicle computer that uses the Microsoft Windows CE operating system to run custom or third-party applications, such as driver logs, fuel-change events, state-line crossings, and driver management analysis.
- A handset is available with the voice option, which provides clear wireless communication. The Quick Call feature enables management to program in allowed phone numbers for both inbound and outbound calls.
- The SensorTRACS reporting system monitors and records driver and vehicle performance. Fuel mileage, over-rev, and over-idle information is displayed in real time so drivers can improve driving habits and stay within company-set parameters. The data is automatically downloaded to dispatch.
- JTRACS Pro communicates with and monitors engine devices tied into the J1708 data link. Exception-based alerts notify the driver and dispatcher of vehicle faults.