Feb/Mar 2008

Users of the Masternaut telematics and fleet management system can now track cargo temperatures remotely without needing a conventional separate on-board data logging system. The company has launched a system called MasterCold, under which the output from vehicle refrigeration systems is linked directly to Masternaut's standard on-board data unit or mobile collection unit (MCU).

The system provides a continuous log of temperatures from up to four compartments. It can also capture additional data such as defrost, set points, refrigerated unit meter readings, hours used and system diagnostic reports.

Exception reporting can be linked to live tracking data, so that an automatic alert is triggered at the office if temperatures go out of range. The alerts are sent via the Web to any PC or Web-enabled device, or by e-mail or SMS.

MasterCold is said to be compatible with any refrigeration unit, and the company specifically mentions that it will connect easily to Carrier and Thermo King equipment.