Whether you have a small or large fleet of vehicles, a telemetry system is a must. Your company will enjoy great benefits from the tracking system. You will know where your equipment is in real time, which driver is closest to a customer, when cargo has been delivered in addition to several other monitoring functions.

Wireless telemetry provides a wide array of data tracking capabilities. Best of all, with telemetry systems the functions are automatic, continuous and don't require human interaction. Because you're in constant communication with your drivers, investment in telemetry equipment can reduce company insurance costs. It can even eliminate the need for pesky drivers' logs.

Remote telemetry is available for a wide variety of purposes, from tracking dogs and wild animals to guiding missiles into outer space to fleet communication. So, to make sure you find the system you want, do the following:

1. Analyze your business needs for radio telemetry solutions with an industry expert.

2. Check out different wireless telemetry systems. Telemetry transmitters and receivers vary in size and capabilities.

3. Invest in a complete system, including a telemetry data logger and software.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get assistance in choosing your telemetry system

Many telemetry companies will provide a professional consultant. Telemetry systems come with a wide range of features, functions and costs. Match the hardware, software and network capabilities to your business needs.

I recommend: AT&T is a leader in wireless communications. It has fleet management solutions for enterprises of different sizes and needs. Wireless telemetry solutions for commercial fleets is a specialty of Aeris. It provides consultants, carries telemetry equipment and manages a large wireless network.

Buy a telemetry system that fits your business's needs

In addition to tracking vehicles and shipments, advanced telemetry systems can monitor fuel usage, maintenance information sent by on-board computers, even refrigeration temperatures in the cargo area. Decide which of these features and functions are important to your business as you review telemetry systems.

I recommend: At Skywave, you can purchase an entire system that includes telemetry equipment and wireless network. It also offers services such as custom system design and security enhancements. Once you know what you want in a telemetry transmitter, visit the online catalog at Kantronics. It has transmitters, receivers and systems with a range of specifications.

Add a telemetry data logger and system software

To get the most out of your system, you should include a telemetry data logger and the software to manage the system. This will allow you to analyze data to refine your processes allowing you to save money and improve efficiency.

I recommend: Wyle Telemetry and Data Systems specializes in data recorders. They have more than 20 rackmount and airborne models to choose from. To make your system more than an old-fashioned walkie-talkie set up, add software from Acroamatics. It will manage your system to allow you to get the best results for analysis.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Just as with cell phones, networks vary. Coverage can range from the local area to all of North America. Make sure your telemetry system provider has network coverage for the area you do business in.