PeopleNet, a provider of onboard computing and mobile communications systems for truck fleet management, has developed a new Vehicle Management Multi-bus Adapter. The tool expands vehicle data collection to J1939 fields in order to enhance information reporting, scorecards and dashboards. According to PeopleNet chief executive officer Ron Konezny, fleets need the flexibility to communicate with either the J1939 or J1708 data bus using a single piece of hardware. PeopleNet's new product collects from both data networks simultaneously. In addition, the Multi-bus Adapter captures new information such as top gear, seat belt use, cruise and engine load, providing an advanced analysis of driver and vehicle performance across PeopleNet's reports, scorecards and Vusion analytics tool. In another company development, PeopleNet has developed a wireless roadside inspection system. The move is in conjunction with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA's) Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Technology Showcase, held recently in Tennessee. Four PeopleNet customer fleets are participating in an operational test of the technology, which stems from a joint effort between FMCSA and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to improve motor-carrier safety through the increased frequency of roadside inspections using wireless technologies.
