With the advent of plug-and-play GPS devices the question arises as to whether these devices are suitable for traditional IVMS/ GPS Tracking.
To answer this question, we need to go back to what exactly IVMS/ GPS Tracking constitutes – this in itself is a problem as the definition of IVMS/ GPS Tracking has never been fully locked down. We get enough calls from contractors who are told that they need to get IVMS/ GPS Tracking, but they often have no further detail. These are the questions that need to be asked when dealing with IVMS/ GPS Tracking and we’d like to show if plug-and-play IVMS/ GPS Tracking would meet the standard or not:
| Feature | General IVMS requirements | Plug-and-play IVMS |
| Driver id | Each driver needs to identify themselves | Can be done but is a bit messy as a cable needs to be attached to the device and the entire configuration then needs to be secured with cable ties. |
| Speed | Different speed zones often apply on mine sites; public road speed limits may also be enforced | Fully met |
| Harsh driving | Harsh acceleration, braking and cornering are detected and reported on | Full met |
| Seatbelt | Seatbelt sensors are fitted as part of many IVMS roll-outs | Does not comply |
| 4×4 mode | Certain mines require drivers to engage 4×4 on dirt roads | Does not comply |
| Handbrake usage | Somewhat obsolete but some IVMS implementations still use this | Does not comply |
| Driver fatigue | Drive times are measured and drivers are mandated to rest | Fully met |
| Over-revving | Used to protect vehicles against damage | Does not comply |
| Excessive idle | Used to preserve fuel | Fully met |
| Satellite | Some IVMS implementations require satellite radios to be fitted for full visibility also outside 3G/4G | Does not comply |
| Driver notifications | IVMS units can be programmed to warn drivers of violation thresholds | Does not comply |
So, to ascertain as to whether plug-and-play IVMS/ GPS Tracking meets the IVMS requirements of a mine site, one really needs to go back to what exactly constitutes IVMS/ GPS Tracking on that particular site.
For advice and an assessment on your IVMS/ GPS Tracking requirements you can call Digicore – leaders in Australian-wide IVMS/ GPS Tracking since 2006!
