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

  • Hamm: Many new features in earthworks and asphalt construction
    February 22, 2023
    Innovative machine technology and digital solutions
    Read More
  • ADT market developments
    May 25, 2016
    The market for ADTs has developed considerably in the last 20 years while the number of manufacturers active in this segment has also grown Volvo CE was a pioneer of the ADT; the first firm to mass manufacture an articulating, tipper truck with all-wheel-drive in the 1960s, although it is not correct to say that the firm actually invented the ADT as some may claim. Performance has increased considerably in the ADT sector in recent years, with many trucks now featuring low maintenance, oil-immersed d
    Read More
  • Trimble’s new SitePulse System empowers field managers
    June 9, 2015
    Trimble has launched what it claims is an affordable and easy-to-use site positioning System for superintendents, foremen and field engineers on heavy civil construction sites. Instead of using paper plans, the Trimble SitePulse System empowers field managers with the same 3D constructible model and digital information that is used by construction surveyors, grade checkers and machine operators. Trimble SitePulse field software is ideal for construction managers who do not have a surveying background. The
    Read More
  • Fast and accurate control with Topcon
    September 20, 2021
    Topcon’s sophisticated GT Series ultrasonic robotic total stations are said to be fast, accurate and versatile
    Read More

Highlighted Content