Applied Data Systems, Columbia, Md., has developed a ruggedized computer system that may make it more affordable for companies to develop sturdy trucking applications,
such as a more rugged version of a personal Palm Pilot-type PDA, as well as wireless, GPS, or telematics applications.
The Thin Master is the latest product in the ADS family of RISC-based single board computers. The Thin Master features one of the most extensive "application-ready" integrated platforms available on a StrongARM core, customized for the needs of the fleet management and telematics industries.
The Thin Master features a built in dual-CAN (Control Area Network capability) Bus. CAN is widely used in vehicle systems to collect and communicate operating data from on-board systems. Having this option built in to ADS' platforms means that there is no extra hardware requirement or add-on boards needed for this level of communication.
The Thin Master has seven serial ports (including RS232, RS422, and/or RS485), full power management, a USB host, Ethernet 10BT, Compact Flash and PCMCIA interfaces, and a ruggedized vehicle power supply with full load dump. The number of serial ports is important because it facilitates easy communication with other technologies, such as GPS or radio communication.
ADSmartIO on the Thin Master is ideal to monitor or control a wide range of system requirements, such as open/close door activity, temperature recordings inside refrigerated trucks, and heating elements for the LCD.
A variety of operating system options may be provided, including WindowsCE, Linux, and WindRiver's VxWorks.
For information about ADS, see www.applied-telematics.net or call 301-490-4007.