Computing: PCs On Board

Onboard Internet access is all the rage among automakers-and truck OEMs. Earlier this year, Western Star added to its option book Clarion’s AutoPC, a fully featured computer using the Microsoft Windows CE operating system which can run software, connect to the Internet, play games-and control the sound system. Voice recognition software allows hands-free use.

Now Freightliner has the Truck Productivity Center, a Delphi-made in-dash PC. The computer itself is based on the Hitachi SH4 chip running at 166 MHz, giving it the power of the new generation of handheld and mini-portable computers. It too uses the Windows CE OS, for which there is a wealth of third-party software. External I/Os include two USB and one RS232 port allowing for the addition of a keyboard and VGA monitor for off-duty relaxation or business computing. An infrared port allows you to beam data from device to device.

Because the unit is an open-architecture PC, it can be programmed as a display unit for satellite messaging or routing information. Voice synthesizing and voice recognition allow for hands-free control and user interface. Among a wealth of other productivity features are e-mail, dispatch messaging, downloads of vehicle information on PCMCIA cards, paperless logs, Internet access, imaged document transmission, and a host of other applications.