A five-year agreement with a wireless data systems developer will allow Eaton Corp. to add remote diagnostics to its line of service tools. Although the initial project focuses on cellular-based versions of Eaton Mobile Diagnostic (MD) tools, it could eventually lead to development of broader telematics systems for commercial vehicles, according to Matt Starks, Eaton's manager of installation and support development.
The agreement with VTTi Inc. calls for development of cellular-based tools that will provide remote active diagnostics for all medium- and heavy-duty components communicating public information over vehicle data busses, Starks says.
“We initially moved our diagnostics from a proprietary platform to the PC and the PDA,” says Stark. “Now we're broadening that platform into wireless and remote access.”
“These products promise to enhance the exiting Eaton Mobile Diagnostic line by bringing new capabilities and services,” says John Morsey, VP of sales for VTTi. “The products developed for Eaton will offer mobile diagnostics that is both user-friendly and extremely powerful. … We see a bright future in this relationship.”
Future development of additional telematics systems “will hinge on how they can meet customer needs, but this could be seen as a steppingstone,” says Starks.
The current MD Tool is available through the online Roadranger Store at www.roadrangerstore.com.
