April/May 2003

The mobile computing solution launched in Germany last year by Deutsche Post is now being rolled out at UK subsidiary Securicor Omega Express, where it has gained the brand name INCA. The UK company says it has invested more than £680,000 in the project.

SOE is using the system to streamline its existing Web-based track and trace and POD system for customers, as well as improve efficiency by updating journey details in real time as new collection requests come in. It is being rolled out initially to 220 vehicles on SOE's Connect heavy pallet operations, but will be extended to next-day parcels delivery vehicles. At base, the system communicates with an SQL Server system, which in turn links with SOE's own back-office system.

The package is built round a bespoke handheld terminal built for the group by Motorola, featuring a 133MHz Hitachi SH4 processor, 16MB of non-volatile RAM and 32MB of SDRAM. It runs under Windows CE version 3.0. This unit is now also available under Motorola branding as the HDT600.

The terminal has a touch-sensitive screen for capturing signatures, plus inbuilt GPRS modem and 802.11b wireless network cards. It uses GPRS to relay delivery data straight back to base, and existing Symbol wireless networking at depots to upload signature images and download driver manifests. Battery recharging is via a docking cradle on the dashboard.

 

The company is also experimenting with GPS tracking, which might be linked to the handheld by Bluetooth or a wired serial connection. Bryce Howie, SOE's senior IS manager, told m.logistics trials in Germany have already proved the concept, "although we don't really need that degree of tracking detail yet." It is also looking at Bluetooth as a way of linking the terminal with a hands-free on-board phone kit in anticipation of new legislation governing use of mobiles by drivers.