April/May 2002

Low-cost tracking solution for high-risk vehicles

One operation that is even more time-critical than getting a truck to a regional distribution centre is guiding a fire engine or ambulance to the right address. Biggleswade-based Cyfas Systems has 30 years' experience with the despatch and tracking of emergency service vehicles, and has now used that in the development of a communications and tracking system for commercial vehicle fleets. It is called Cytrack 2000.

The Cytrack system includes a 32-bit on-board computer, security, GPS tracking and GSM voice communications. High-risk vehicles can be fitted with a panic button, and drivers can carry what is being called a Cytalarm personal alarm. Voice communications to and from the vehicle can be hands-free, with a single button pressed to contact base. The unit is pre-installed with mapping software for the UK mainland, and can import other graphical information systems, including Ordnance Survey maps and aerial photographs.

 

The ECU has a very low-power sleep mode, says Cyfas, which allows it to operate for weeks in standby mode, waking up only when an alarm event occurs or when a routine check is made.