New Feature Rich Message Data Terminal from Overview Mapping

Overview Mapping, the innovators in location based solutions, has added a new message data terminal (MDT) to compliment its Overview fleet GPS tracking system. Overview has used its expertise in systems integration to develop a comprehensive range of options to make its MDT system truly unique.

The Overview MDT provides real-time two-way messaging capabilities with no restriction on the length of messages. As well as user created messages, the MDT has the facility for pre-programmed (canned) and status messages and digital forms, which allow the entry of data directly onto customised digital forms.

There is a wide range of optional extras available for the Overview MDT including driver identification by using a keypad, swipe card or alternatively an ID button; voice application a telephone dialling programme on the MDT allows users to dial telephone numbers through the MDT and the Department of Transportation (DOT) Driver Log programme meets the DOT requirements for drivers by providing the driver with the ability to track their status and record any additional driver information. With the CAN Bus Interface the unit can be connected to the engine management system providing real time feedback on everything from accurate readings of fuel consumption to alerts for potentially dangerous situations, such as low oil pressure or sudden breaking.

The system boasts full wireless connectivity with options for built in Bluetooth technology and a standard 802.11b/g WIFI/Wireless LAN connection for use with PDA devices, laptops and RFID type applications. Satellite Navigation can also be included as part of an integrated external screen interface with touch screen capabilities. A USB interface option allows the use of such items as keyboards and memory sticks to give added control to the system.

Commenting on the new message data terminal, managing director, Andrew Overton says, Customers have been asking us to provide a messaging system that does not suffer from the restrictions and cost burdens associated with mobile phones, whilst working within the positioning web fleet tracking interface. With our new feature rich MDT there is no restriction on the length of messages transmitted and, of course, no cost involved in sending the messages, no matter how many you send.

One of the first customers to use the system, A. E. Services of Earls Barton, is delighted with it. A spokesperson for the company says, As a rescue/recovery company for all types of vehicle, we are always sending messages to our 14 strong fleet. Using the mobile phone network proved expensive and limiting. The Overview MDT has dramatically cut down on the number of mobile calls we have to make to our drivers. We can now contact them as often as necessary and because the system is so easy to use miss-communications just dont happen anymore.

We use the MDT in conjunction with the Overview GPS system which is absolutely marvellous. Just by logging onto the Overview Mapping web site we know precisely where all our vehicles are and we can then send the nearest vehicle a message on the MDT system instructing them to respond to the call. And, because the drivers can send messages back easily, we always know the exact status of any job.