Caterpillar develops advances telematics technology to track machine performance

Caterpillar is launching new Cat Connect hardware and software to enable equipment managers to connect all of their assets—from the largest earthmover to the smallest generator, and including both light and heavy-duty trucks and utility vehicles. New Cat Product Link technologies connect any brand and type of equipment, powered or non-powered, and all report through a single system, VisionLink. The new technologies are said to offer multiple communications channels—cellular, satellite and Bluetooth—to b
February 24, 2017 Read time: 2 mins
Caterpillar’s new telematics technology allows for effective fleet management
178 Caterpillar is launching new Cat Connect hardware and software to enable equipment managers to connect all of their assets—from the largest earthmover to the smallest generator, and including both light and heavy-duty trucks and utility vehicles.

New Cat Product Link technologies connect any brand and type of equipment, powered or non-powered, and all report through a single system, VisionLink. The new technologies are said to offer multiple communications channels—cellular, satellite and Bluetooth—to best match the type of asset and the needs of the user. And the systems are designed for easy installation using plug-and-play technology and apps for mobile devices. Battery backup for machine-powered devices and long-life batteries for units on non-powered assets help ensure reliable operation.

The new Product Link device for monitoring production machines has scalable features that enable increasing data collected as needed—from machine hours and location through machine health parameters and production numbers. In contrast, a new tracking device for non-powered assets, such as attachments and trailers, reports location only. The innovative device uses Bluetooth technology to connect with VisionLink, which enables managers to monitor equipment remotely using their smart phones, tablets and desktop computers.

The new truck monitoring hardware is designed for retrofitting all brands of light and heavy-duty trucks, including pickup trucks, service trucks and materials haulers. Using cellular technology, the system can provide information to enhance driver safety and to assist both production and maintenance managers.

Regardless of the industry served, types and brands of assets, and size of fleet, Caterpillar says it has technology to inform decisions and help drive business success.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • World of Asphalt/AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo
    March 14, 2012
    World of Asphalt 2012 and the co-located AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo will be the largest in the history of the two events. Guy Woodford reports on some of the technology and equipment set to be on show. With over 6,500m² of exhibit space available, World of Asphalt 2012 (WoA) is among the global showpiece events of the year for all asphalt, pavement maintenance and traffic safety industry professionals.
    Read More
  • Information technology and transport development
    April 12, 2012
    A team of eminent Russian specialists* introduce exciting new information technologies, such as the Internet of Things, and foresee their promising applications in the field of transport infrastructure development. Global economic growth, combined with explosive digital technology proliferation, brings new challenges to the field of transport infrastructure. Technical advances such as Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), vehicle to infrastructure interfaces, global positioning, electronic toll collecti
    Read More
  • Information technology and transport development
    February 16, 2012
    A team of eminent Russian specialists* introduce exciting new information technologies, such as the Internet of Things, and foresee their promising applications in the field of transport infrastructure development
    Read More
  • Pinpoint accuracy offered by Leica’s iCON MCH100 and Telematics
    April 14, 2016
    Leica’s iCON MCH100 and Telematics machine monitoring systems make it possible to know what any type of earthmoving machine is doing anytime and anywhere in the quarry or construction site. The iCON MCH100 unit, which offers the real-time location of machinery, can be attached in a non-invasive fashion with no calibration needed. Importantly, it has wireless connectivity for any type of earthmoving equipment – and from any manufacturer - and can stand up to long hours of operation in rugged conditions.
    Read More

Highlighted Content