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To be released this coming spring, Tracker Ranger will provide the
ability for Tracker customers to enjoy full two-way packet data dispatch to
java capable wireless phones. Initially, service will be offered on all iDEN
networks, including Nextel, Southern Linc and Telus Mobility. All java
capable phones from these carriers will be supported, including the i55,
185, i58, i88, i90, and i35 series Motorola phones. Eventually, Tracker
Ranger will be supported on all new cellular networks with always-on,
always-connected packet data capability and java capable phones.
Tracker Ranger has been in development for over 1 year, the result of
extensive customer needs assessment, design and investment. This is not a
low level application, but a powerful, fast and reliable means of assigning
calls to drivers without voice, then tracking those calls in real time as
they progress. Unlike email or SMS messaging, packet data provides always on
connectivity, with reliable, fast message delivery.
Tracker Ranger is tightly integrated with Tracker's Enterprise towing
management system. This means that job assignments and progression updates
immediately update the core Tracker system, keeping the dispatcher
constantly up-to-date on field activity.
It is expected that this highly cost effective and functional application
will be adopted by over 70% of Tracker's customer base. Why? Because the
return on investment for towing companies will be immediate, with
significant gains in operating efficiency and customer service.
Benefits of Tracker Ranger
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Reduces voice traffic by over 80% |
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Decreases dispatcher workload for over
40% |
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Reduces administration post processing by over 50% |
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It also eliminates the need for
drivers and dispatchers to "chase" each other on the radio, attempting
to find each other when they are not busy. This saves considerable time
and fuel, resulting in more efficient use of resources and improved
customer service |
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Simplifies and accelerates dispatching
of initial call, freeing the dispatcher from having to voice call the
driver |
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Reduces errors that can occur with
written and verbal communications |
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Drivers do not not have to stop and
write down information, saving time |
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Dispatchers and Call Takers can
observe the status of jobs on a real-time basis. This improves customer
service as customers can be given more accurate ETA's. Dispatchers are
able to make more informed decisions about which vehicle and driver to
assign a ticket to. |
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Auto clubs benefit from real-time job
updating, which in turn improves their own customer service |
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Improves the recovery of invoiced
charges and simplifies administration and billing, as each ticket has a
complete time-stamped history that is difficult for a customer to argue
about |
Features of Tracker Ranger
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Drivers can update their status with a single button press,
indicating whether they have "Accepted" the assignment, are "En-Route",
"Arrived", "Hooked" or the trip is "Cleared" |
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Wireless data generally extends the coverage area for a towing
company over what they would have with a two-way radio system. Wireless
data will automatically retry if the vehicle is in a poor coverage area,
until it gets through |
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Uses off-the-shelf, carrier subsidized wireless phones |
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Units are available that meet military specifications for shock and
vibration for extended reliability, such as the Motorola i88 pictured
below |
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Portable units are easier to replace in the event of failure or
theft and do not require installation |
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Drivers are not tethered to the vehicle, therefore they can be
dispatched and can update job status even while away from or outside the
vehicle |
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Obsolescence is not an issue. If the original product purchased is
discontinued, it really doesn't matter because new improved products
using the same global data standards will be available to replace it at
a low cost |
Requirements For Tracker Ranger
The following equipment is required in order to configure a
complete fixed-in-vehicle MDT solution that works seamlessly with the
Tracker system.
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1. Tracker PDA Software Module
 Purchase
the Tracker Ranger Software module on a one-time basis. Receive a full
credit for upgrading your existing Tracker CL Paging module if you have
it. In addition to the one-time price for the dispatch module, there
will be a low monthly charge for wireless dispatch for each phone. The
monthly amount will depend on the level of functionality that you
require. |
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2.Portable Wireless Phone
A suitable wireless phone should be first
chosen that meets your needs for coverage, durability and battery life.
The unit should offer java capability, always-on packet data capability
and have a display large enough that drivers can easily read. Finally,
your voice requirements should be considered. If the unit will also be
used for occasional voice communications, it is recommended that a unit
be chosen with push-to-talk voice capability. For most towing companies,
we recommend the
i58SR, due to its durability and
feature set. |
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Service
In order for the Tracker system to be able
to send and receive data to and from the phone, it must be subscribed to
a packet data plan from a wireless carrier. Costs per month for this
service typically range from $13.00 to $20.00 per month. This would
include iDEN phones, such as those from Nextel, Southern Linc and Telus
Mobility. Eventually, GPRS phones from T-Mobile, AT&T and Cingular will
be supported, as will CDMA 1X phones from Verizon and Sprint. For more
information about packet data services,
click here. |
4. Packet Data Modem / GPS Device
The
G3001 GPSLink from Tracker strategic partner Future Quest Wireless Inc.
connects to the Pocket PC, acting as its wireless gateway. Jobs and
messages are dispatched from Tracker and sent via high-speed packet data
to the PDA. Driver messages and job status changes are sent back to
Tracker the same way.
In addition
to acting as the wireless modem, the G3001 has integrated GPS tracking
capability with PTO monitoring, driver emergency and credit card
processing capability.
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4. Optional GPS Mapping
 Tracker
Visual Tow extends the power of your Tracker system, with GPS satellite
based automatic vehicle location fully integrated into the Tracker PDA
solution. GPS allows the location of your fleet to be tracked real-time,
enabling dispatchers to make highly informed decisions about the most
efficient vehicle assignment alternatives. To explore the benefits and
requirements for Visual Tow,
click here.
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If you would like additional product
information or a budgetary quotation for a Tracker wireless dispatch
module, please fill out this form below, which is designed to analyze
your specific needs. We will respond to you within 48 hours.
Click here to request a quotation or more information on wireless
dispatch
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