Minorplanet Systems USA Inc., a leading provider of telematics-based management solutions for commercial fleets, is offering a patented data transfer option for its advanced fleet management system,
Vehicle Management Information (VMI).
The low-power radio frequency (RF) option utilizes two-way radio waves that enable Minorplanet customers to download critical vehicle location information free of charge.
"Our patented RF technology provides another way for our customers to reduce expenses while improving productivity levels and increasing their bottom lines," said W. Michael Smith, executive vice president of Minorplanet Systems USA.
"Typically, vehicle data is downloaded over the cellular network, which incurs monthly airtime costs for the customer. With RF, customers whose vehicles regularly return to the same location or base, can now transfer vehicle information reliably and at an excellent price: free."
Minorplanet's RF option was extensively tested in the United States and has been in use in the United Kingdom, where the company's majority shareholder has been headquartered since 1996.
Minorplanet's cellular download option uses the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network, with providers T-Mobile (formerly Voicestream) and Cingular Wireless.
Headquartered in Richardson, Texas, Minorplanet currently has a market presence in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Austin, Texas markets, as well as Atlanta and Los Angeles, with plans for other metro markets in the future.