Mobile communications provider Global 2-Way, Marco Island, Fla., has announced commercial availability and pricing for the Global T-Fleet system, a nationwide messaging and tracking system.

The Global T-Fleet system can be leased for as little as $75 a month with a communications plan that includes 250 messages.
Using a combination of Global 2-Way?s digital high frequency (DHF) network and FM radio sub-carrier networks, Global T-Fleet can be used throughout the United States. Messages from the vehicle to dispatch transmit through the DHF network, while messages from dispatch to the vehicle transmit through FM sub-carrier frequencies leased to Global 2-Way by FM stations across the country. Each FM tower covers more than 16 times the area of other terrestrial systems. The DHF network is scanned every five seconds to determine which channels are unoccupied. If a message is not received on the first try it will be stored and forwarded at a different frequency to guarantee delivery.
"By using the extensive FM infrastructure and unoccupied HF channels we are able to offer tracking and communications at a substantially lower rate without sacrificing coverage or quality," said John Robins, vice president of new business development for Global 2-Way. "Since FM radio is available virtually everywhere, we view our product as the low-cost satellite alternative."
The Global T-Fleet system includes a durable driver terminal and transceiver unit, an unobtrusive whip antenna and Windows-based mapping and communication software. Installation does not require a trained installation professional.
Monthly messaging packages include:
Fleet Lite: 100 messages per month, per unit at $19.99 a month
Standard Fleet: 250 messages per month, per unit at $29.99 a month
Ultimate Fleet: 400 messages per month, per unit at $39.99 a month
The Global 2-Way system was originally developed by Terion Inc., which stopped marketing the product last year. However, the communications network was never actually shut down. According to Global 2-Way, as many as 1,000 trucks continued to use the system through its sale and reintroduction.