Zonar Expands Location-Based Services by Integrating First-of-Its-Kind Real-Time Engine Diagnostics
Written by Zonar Systems
Friday, 16 January 2009
Meeting the needs of mixed fleets by providing a single solution that
delivers remote engine diagnostics using all SAE data bus protocols
along with spatially encoded engine performance data.
SEATTLE, Jan. 15 -- Zonar Systems announced today the general availability of its J3 Engine Diagnostics(TM) module. This module provides real-time data transmission of engine diagnostic and performance data, including driver performance metrics, combined with spatially encoded location information so fleet operations have a new way of improving operational efficiencies.
"Fleet owners no longer have to rely on after-the-fact data about the performance of their vehicles. With Zonar, they can have real-time visibility of the engine diagnostic and performance data they need to drive their business to greater operational efficiencies, said Mike McQuade, Chief Technology Officer at Zonar Systems. "It's what fleet operations have been asking for and not finding, until now," continued Mr. McQuade.
Why Zonar is Different
Typically, gathering engine fault code data is done using expensive diagnostic equipment which requires the mechanic and vehicle to be together - in the same place at the same time. This means the code interpretation is occurring long after a problem, such as check engine light, first appeared and the damage to the vehicle has been done.
With Zonar's J3 Engine Diagnostics module, vehicle electronic subsystems data can be read remotely and transmitted instantly to fleet operations at the same time the vehicle driver is seeing the blinking light. Zonar also delivers related engine condition and performance data like engine temperature, along with the fault codes, so the best possible real-time picture of the engine conditions exists. Now vehicle operators are able to make the best decision to protect the vehicle, themselves and cargo assets - in real-time.
Why Zonar is First-of-Its-Kind
While there are other remote engine diagnostic solutions, only Zonar is providing a solution that ensures both the latest and previous versions of the SAE data bus protocols are utilized, in a single device. This includes SAE J1708/1587, J1939 and (planned) OBDII. This is significant because the majority of fleets are mixed fleets, which means they have both older and newer vehicles so all 3 of these protocols are in use simultaneously. With Zonar, all fleets are now in a position to benefit from the powerful capabilities remote engine diagnostics provides with one device.
"We are pleased to be able to offer this unique combination of services in one simple to deploy and affordable solution," said Brett Brinton, CEO of Zonar Systems. "We know fleets need to be doing more with less, so our real-time engine diagnostic and driver performance capabilities are just the start. What we have built is a platform that will enable other vehicle subsystem data to become real-time as well."
Industry veteran, Alan Lesesky, former chairman of SAE Truck & Bus Electrical/Electronic Committee and TMC Silver Spark Plug award winner for outstanding contribution in the field of heavy-duty maintenance said, "Zonar's reputation as a forward-thinking company coupled with its track record for building practical and cost-effective solutions is again demonstrated with this product release. It will increase the productivity of fleets resulting in bottom line savings. I'm pleased to be included through Zonar's licensing of intellectual property owned by my firm, VES."
Product Capabilities Highlights
About Zonar Systems
Zonar Systems provides electronic fleet inspection, tracking and operations solutions used by the full range of public and private fleets. Our unique Inspect, Track, Know approach enables fleets to realize unprecedented gains in operational efficiencies, cost savings and environmental impact. To get real Ground Traffic Control(TM) visit www.zonarsystems.com
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