T he feature that distinguishes National Band Three (NB3) from
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the plethora of mobile i communications networks now available is that it is a fixed-price system, working locally, regionally or nationally depending on the user's requirements. Users appreciate a service with no hidden or varying costs.
NB3's integrated voice and data services include a variety of add-on packages, ranging from information on vehicle location and load condition to monitoring engine performance, drivers' hours and rest periods; vehicle scheduling analysis or issuing invoicing at the point of delivery.
The Tankfreight fleet delivering to J Sainsbury petrol stations uses NB3 to link between Tankfreight's computer system and the drivers' on-board computers. Other major users include Granada UK Rental, Hoover, Hotpoint and Motorway Tyres and Accessories.
Tesco uses an advanced system named FleetWizard to control its distribution fleet. It automatically generates collection and delivery trips from Tesco's scheduling software, monitors drivers' progress throughout each shift, and alerts traffic office staff if it detects a delay. Drivers can send messages direct to the computer by pressing a one or two-digit number on their in-cab key pad: for example, 1 records "arrived at a store"; 7 indicates commenced break".
FleetWizard can also provide management reports on demand, on everything from store turnround times to plcmned and actual journey times.
Another advanced NB3 system uses the Psion Workalx)ut hand-held computer linked to MSIS software at the operator's base. Workabout has an LCD screen and multi-function keypad; it can also be provided with optical scanners, wands and readers for data input. The system can provide receipts and invoices at point of delivery. NB3-equipped vehicles can receive and store messages even when the driver is out of his cab. Portable radio units are available for personnel such as service engineers who spend a lot of time away from their vehicles. NB3 operates through a network of service providers and dealers, who install the systems and administer the accounts.