Technology Briefs — March 14 - March 20
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The Latest Headlines:
- Starbucks to Install Sensors on Containers
- PeopleNet Adds Internet Access to EOBR System
- TMW Releases Communication Tool for Drivers
- Altea Offers Customers Free Emergency GPS Services
- PeopleNet Adds Internet Access to EOBR System
Starbucks to Install Sensors on Containers
Starbucks Corp. said it will install high-tech sensors in its cargo containers of coffee beans shipped to the United States and Europe from Guatemala, the Associated Press reported.The world's leading coffee retailer said it will use "CommerceGuard" sensors from General Electric Co. to detect whether anyone opened cargo containers during shipment. The sensors attach magnetically to the inside of containers and record any opening of the doors, AP said.
PeopleNet Adds Internet Access to EOBR System
Mobile communications firm PeopleNet Communications said it upgraded its electronic onboard recording system to allow drivers to use the Internet to view information regarding hours-of-service compliance.Glenn Williams, senior product marketing manager, said the new version of eDriver Logs allows truckers to view HOS data online, which helps them plan their work day.
“By having an Internet-based system, drivers will also be able to report time spent at a loading dock or in training session,” Williams told Transport Topics.
The updated package from the Minneapolis-based firm also allows drivers to view historical data about their log sheets, Williams said.
A driver can view data as far back as six months and includes any HOS-related violations, he said.
Williams said one of the advantages of having an Internet-based system is that drivers do not have to contact a dispatcher. In addition, all authorized employees, not just dispatchers, can access a driver’s information, Williams said. Transport Topics
TMW Releases Communication Tool for Drivers
Software firm TMW Systems said it has released its Internet-based software package that will make it easier for drivers to communicate with supervisors and family members while on the road.Known as DriverSeat, the application is designed to allow drivers to log on to their company’s Internet site and track information such as pay and available loads, and also submit requests for vacation.
Cindy Nelson, TMW’s director of marketing, said the package would allow drivers to access the Internet through one package rather than multiple systems.
Companies using TMWSuite can use DriverSeat to simplify access to data, Nelson said. “We’re seeing strong interest from carriers who want to reduce the amount dedicated to payroll and instead make this information available on the Internet,” she told Transport Topics. Tarun Reddy
Altea Offers Customers Free Emergency GPS Services
Altea USA, which sells global positioning system hardware and services, said it will offer its customers emergency GPS services at no cost.The company said by its SAT-COM 1 service automatically notifies its emergency operators with vehicle location and other information in the event of an accident.
The company said in a statement the SAT-COM 1 service was launched in North America in May and is sold mainly through new car dealerships. It said it also offers vehicle navigation and other safety services. Transport Topics
