We talk often about fleet management software on this blog, but we don’t often talk about hardware. Without fleet management system hardware, the software would not be able to function at all! Luckily, not much hardware is involved in making your system run. Let’s discuss what hardware you will need for your fleet management system.
Fleet Tracking Device
A fleet tracking device connects at three points:
- The vehicle’s engine computer unit
- GPS satellites
- The internet
You can access any tracking data you need from a dashboard in your software. This dashboard shows the data via maps, charts, and reports in real-time. You’ll know where a vehicle is and its health. The system even tracks driver behaviors like idling and speeding.
GPS fleet tracking devices can be either hardwired or plugged in. The plug-and-play method is the easiest. For example, you can install Azuga’s fleet tracking device in less than 20 seconds. Plug-and-play devices use the OBD port. If your vehicle was built after 1996 and sold in the US, it should have an OBD port. Once you plug the device into the OBD port, it will automatically connect to your fleet management software.
Hardwiring a vehicle is a bit different. Hardwiring a device involves three wires: one for power, ignition, and ground wiring. It will be placed underneath your vehicle’s hood or dash.
Check out this article to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of hardwired GPS trackers versus plug-and-play.
Asset Trackers
Asset tracking helps you collect real-time data from your equipment and vehicles. The hardware involved includes GPS trackers, barcodes, QR codes, or scanners. Like regular vehicle tracking, you can monitor location, idle time, HoS, and more. Asset trackers also keep you updated on what assets you have on hand. This prevents duplicate ordering or worrying about theft.
Long Life Asset Trackers
Long Life Asset Trackers will last five years on a single charge. Fleets typically use them for non-powered assets like:
- Trailers and shipping containers
- Signs
- Mobile storage units
Rechargeable Asset Trackers
Rechargeable Asset Trackers must be charged much more often than long life asset trackers–at least every six months. This is why they are better suited for powered assets such as:
- Vehicles
- Generators, mobile lights
- Heavy equipment
Get Tracking with Azuga Today!
Azuga has been supporting the fleet industry for years, working with fleets of all shapes and sizes. We know your fleet’s needs and can work with you to achieve your business goals. We offer standard vehicle trackers and asset trackers of both kinds. Our technology is designed for accuracy and efficiency. If you want to learn more about what we can accomplish together, try a demo of our software with one of our experts.
