CCJ

May 2015

Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal

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COMMERCIAL CARRIER JOURNAL | MAY 2015 51 technology these devices is simple and inexpensive," he says. … or industry-specific? That's why consumer devices now are vying with industry-specific computing platforms in trucking. Jain believes that an explosion of new technologies such as advanced telematics systems eventu- ally will solidify the need for highly optimized devices catering specifically to fleets and drivers. "We believe there is a market for both approaches," he says. "Each option comes with its pros and cons, and fl eet managers will have to ultimately decide which is the right solution for their fl eet." Devices optimized for the trucking market, such as the enterprise-grade Zonar 2020, bring added reliability and confi dence in the product and its ability to complete critical steps, Jain says. "These devices also enforce safety and security by preventing driver use while the vehicle is in motion and securing the product from harmful software," he says. While consumer- grade solutions typically sport lower prices, they lack the reliability, security and safety of an enterprise solution, Jain says. "Mainstream devices may be suf- fi ciently ruggedized for certain uses in moderate climates, but they still lack the robust security protocols or programming to provide fl eet manag- ers the assurance they need that their drivers can complete critical tasks in a safe and secure manner," he says. Specialized applications aside, Riemer is convinced consumer devices with trucking-specifi c apps eventually will be the favored approach used by fl eets. "The market will eventually be domi- nated by off-the-shelf hardware and software, driven mainly by the econom- ics – primarily purchase, development, support, maintenance and replacement costs," he says. "The delay in seeing greater numbers of these devices in trucking today is directly related to these limitations." Once those issues are resolved, Riemer says, protective cases available at almost any retail location should handle the vast majority of applica- tions. "A quick search of the Web shows some more specialized but still relatively inexpensive cases that can be used," he says. "It is becoming less likely that trucking-specifi c devices will be required. Pretty much any accessory at this point is a plug-and-play or wireless connection away." The Right People. The Right Service. The Right Places. Trust it to the experts. Find your local VIPro TruckForce ™ Service Center by visiting www.VIProTruckForce.com or call 800.494.4731 Locations from coast to coast in the United States and Canada. Supported by these quality brands: When you need expert service and repair on "YOUR IRON" we'll do the job right. Whether you're at home or on the road, look for the local VIPro TruckForce™ Service Center for service you can trust.

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