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!
“In the civil & mining sector, efficiency and safety are our top priorities. Digicore has been a cornerstone of our operations, providing us with cutting-edge IVMS solutions. What impresses us the most is their ability to comprehend our unique challenges and design solutions that are both effective and cost-efficient. Their after-sales support is exceptional - always reachable, always proactive. It's a pleasure to partner with such a trustworthy, 100% Australian owned company.”
“We have worked with Digicore for over the last 10 years and at every stage they have come up with innovative and price effective ways in which to help our business. As we grew, our demands grew and Dan from Digicore continued to provide excellent service and the best products.”
“I want to say thank you for the phenomenal service and input Digicore has had, it has been particularly helpful in providing input to our business IVMS plans. Your team were incredibly professional and Digicore IVMS 2.0 is a very impressive solution.”
“We started with a large tracking company and got locked in before discovering their units didn't have the functions we required. We switched to Digicore and we couldn't be happier. The product is excellent, pricing is very competitive but more importantly their product knowledge and support is second to none.”