CTech Manufacturing recently added more options to their suite of of lightweight aluminum tactical storage cabinets for public-safety vehicles. The new Trooper series models are specifically designed for mid-size Ford Interceptors and have one or two drawers. CTech’s popular CopBox and ChiefBox (red powdercoat) models are available with several different sizes.
The M40-301 Metro CopBox is a “one-size-fits-all” and available for immediate shipment. The locking flip lid opens to a secure wide open space for flexible storage needs. The cabinet is 12 inches high and does not block the view out of the rear of the vehicle.
The cabinets can be removed and transferred to the next model vehicle making them a good investment. And…recent manufacturing improvements and strong sales have resulted in big price reductions. Click on the chart below to zoom.
As a CTech authorized dealer we can also provide carts, fixed cabinets, and tool drawers too. Contact our Dover, Delaware office to discuss the best storage solution for you. Our phone number is 302-734-9250 (M-F 8-5pm EST) or use the form below.
Our website has been upgraded to improve internet security for our Magnum AVL Fleet Management customers. The upgrade eliminates the Google Chrome Browser non-secure warning, adds encryption, and shows a lock in the browser address bar as shown below.
To connect to the secure server, enter https://avl.magnumelectronics.com in your browser address bar (or click on the link).. You should connect to the login page with a padlock icon to the left of the url address.
Enter your login info and save as a bookmark or add to your home screen if using a smartphone. This should save your login info and provide a secure one-click link to your Magnum AVL fleet management account.
You may have heard excessive speeding can reduce fuel economy but few of us know how much it costs. We found some useful information compiled from DOE data.
Your vehicle’s fuel mileage decreases once it exceeds optimal speed. For most vehicles, this is happens at about 55 mph. Every time you go over this speed, you’re wasting fuel and money. A slight decrease in your highway driving speed can significantly reduce your fuel consumption.
Impact on Fleet Fuel Efficiency When Exceeding 55 MPH per DOE
According to studies backed by the DOE, the average fleet vehicle will be at its advertised peak efficiency MPG at 55 mph. As speed increases you can lose up to 28% of fuel efficiency when traveling at highway speeds.
The impact for every 5 mph increase is shown below:
3% less efficient at 60 mph
8% less efficient at 65 mph
17% less efficient at 70 mph
23% less efficient at 75 mph
28% less efficient at 80 mph
Magnum AVL Speed Reporting and Alerts Provide Driver Coaching
Our Magnum AVL GPS fleet management system has two types of speed alerts. The first is a high speed alert. Set the threshold at, for example, 70 mph and if a driver exceeds that threshold you can be notified (or get a daily report of all violations).
The second alert is “posted speed” alert. Set this alert to be triggered if a driver exceeds 12 mph over ANY posted speed limit on any road. Alerts can be sent to your email or phone but you may want to have a daily or weekly report sent to you showing all violations with exact time and location.
Here are short videos explaining how to setup alerts and reports to coach your drivers. Provide recognition to those with the least violations and watch your fuel bill drop next month.
Contact Anthony at our Dover office (302-734-9250 8-5pm EST) for more information and a demonstration. Our low cost wired and plug-in trackers can be purchased, leased, or rented without a long-term contract.
If you have storage trailers or construction equipment scattered across the state or job sites, it can be difficult to keep track of their location. It can be a time-consuming process to find them resulting in wasted labor hours, lost revenue, and equipment write-offs.
Magnum AVL Battery-Operated GPS Asset Tracker
The enhanced Magnum AVL 660-BAT is designed for mounting on the top of your equipment with four screws. There are no wires or external antennas and the internal battery will last 3-4 years. The rugged design is rated IP67 for outdoor use and it can be painted to match your equipment. It uses the Verizon Wireless cellular data network and includes a sensitive GPS receiver for location based tracking. It is only about 10 inches long and 2.5 inches high and weighs 25 oz including the battery.
Track Your Assets Using Web Based Google Maps
Track your assets from any computer or smartphone using Google Maps with the Magnum AVL web interface. Satellite, and street views make it easy to locate your equipment. The control panel shows all your assets and their location. You can also track your vehicles on the same map. Assets can be grouped, edited, and assigned different icons for easy viewing. Your history is stored online for 18 months or set up automatic reports that can be printed or emailed at regular intervals.
Low Cost Automatic Daily Updates Every 12 Hours
The 660-BAT sleeps between updates to conserve battery life. It automatically reports map location with address every 12 hours. The time is of day is set by removing a magnet to start the 12 hour cycle.
Asset Management with a Quick ROI
Considering today’s labor and fuel costs, the investment in Magnum AVL GPS tracking is quickly recovered. The 660-BAT including the service plan based on a 3 year lifespan is about 50 cents per day. Keeping a work crew waiting can be hundreds or thousands in extra costs.
Our new Magnum AVL Enhanced GPS Fleet and Asset Tracking provides 60 second updating at $19.95 per month. Upgraded GPS devices use the Verizon nationwide network and provide more data to manage your fleet. Our web based user interface includes new features and powerful reports. This article contains videos to learn how to use Magnum AVL.
After logging in to Magnum AVL fleet management, the interface shows the list of vehicles and/or assets on the left with the map on the right. There are 5 navigation buttons at the top – Dispatch, Dashboard, Reports, Data/Admin, and Alerts. The links below explain each section in detail.
Magnum AVL device pricing and all of our service plans are available for purchase at our online store. We also can help answer question or provide a demonstration by calling our Dover, Delaware office at 302-734-9250 weekdays 8-5pm EST.
GPS device technology has improved significantly since our Magnum AVL fleet management products were introduced in 2010. Cellular tower infrastructure changes require the replacement of some older trackers this year. We feel now is a good time to upgrade our product offering with new software features, faster updates, and the latest state-of-the-art hardware.
All of our new GPS devices have a backup battery that provides continuous tracking for almost an hour if power is lost. It will also show disconnect and reconnect alerts along with location data while unplugged. The new units also provide alerts for hard braking, acceleration, and direction changes.
Our new units update every 60 seconds plus every direction change providing significantly more data and improved accuracy. Alerts tied to exceeding posted speed of the road are now standard. Our new trackers use the Verizon Wireless network exclusively. Another improvement is a lifetime warranty on the tracker (except the backup battery) as long as the unit’s service plan is current.
Our new hardware is compatible with future driver log requirements, plug-in ECM cables, and other planned software enhancements.
Choice of AVL Fleet and Asset Trackers
We will continue to offer a choice of trackers depending on your requirements. Our 700-3W is wired to 12V DC, ground, and ignition. The wiring harness is compatible with 90% of our existing trackers for easy replacement. It has internal antennas, PTO sensor inputs, and the capability for future enhancements.
Our new 195-PNP plugs into the OBD-II port under the steering wheel of most cars, vans, and pickup trucks. It requires no installation and can be moved easily. For permanent installations an optional Y cable is available that hides the unit in the dashboard and provides an open OBD-II port for service.
For special applications we have GPS devices that track bobcats, pavers, trailers, and other equipment with a 12V DC power source. These units track less frequently - 10 or 30 minute updates when moving or daily when stationary. Battery backup will alert and track if stolen. We also have battery powered trackers that update every 12 hours for assets without a power source.
Major User Interface Upgrade With Advanced Features
The Amazon Cloud based user interface has been upgraded to provide advanced features and more alerts. All desktop functions can now be done from your smartphone. We continue to use Google Maps with satellite, traffic, and street views.
Maps are easy to customize with landmarks, geofences, and custom icons. Our software generates 20+ management reports for vehicles, groups, or your entire fleet. State mileage reports for IFTA class vehicles are supported.
Our data is stored in the cloud for 12 months for easy access. All reports can be automatically generated and emailed to multiple recipients. You can print reports, download to a spreadsheet, or save to a .pdf file.
New Lower Magnum AVL Service Plan Pricing
Our 1 minute update service plan is priced at $19.95 per month per vehicle. This is almost half the price of our competitors and we do not require a long term contract. We also offer a seasonal suspend plan to help with cash flow when not working.
Our lower cost 10 and 30 minute update service plans are available for our 460-EQ asset and 360-TT trailer trackers. Accountabilty of bobcats, pavers, and other job site equipment is easy when they are on the same map as your vehicles. For mobile assets without a power our 660-BAT battery-operated tracker will update every 12 hours.
The new enhanced hardware is not compatible with our existing legacy software. Magnum AVL customers and competitive users with a current contract qualify for FREE or discounted hardware pricing. Most customers will get faster updates at a reduced monthly fee by upgrading their devices.
We also have a 6 month rental program if you want to try GPS fleet management without a long term commitment. For a demonstration or if you have additional questions call our office at 302-734-9250 M-F 8-5pm EST or fill out the form below.
Business owners and government agencies with small to mid-size fleets can experience the benefits of GPS vehicle tracking without a long term service contract. Our Magnum AVL Rental Program includes wired or OBD-II plug-in trackers and service plan with automatic updating. Track your vehicles using your desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone.
GPS Fleet Management Powered by Verizon Wireless
Magnum AVL fleet trackers utilize the Verizon Wireless nationwide network. Your vehicles, backhoes, and trailers are tracked using our cloud-based software using Google Maps with satellite, traffic, and street views. Our trackers have a backup battery and will send disconnect and reconnect alerts as well as continuous updates for up to an hour.
Email and text alerts are available based on location, posted speed, excessive idling, and harsh driving. Detailed, comprehensive management reports provide fleet data daily, weekly, and monthly.. 20+ reports can be automatically emailed, exported to a spreadsheet, or saved in .pdf format.
We offer installation services, telephone support, and free training webinars. If you have a mobile workforce, Magnum AVL will impact your bottom line.
Contact us for a quote using the form below or call us at our Dover, Delaware headquarters at (302) 734-9250 M-F 8-5:00pm EST.
Unnecessary engine idling reduces your fleet’s miles per gallon and increases maintenance costs. Most vehicle manufacturers now recommend a maximum of 3-5 minutes of idling before either turning off the key or beginning your trip. According to http://idlefreevt.org a medium duty (class 3-6) diesel or gasoline truck burns 0.4 to 0.6 gallons per hour. A heavy-duty (class 7-8) diesel truck burns 0.8 to 1.0 gallons per hour.
The chart below shows the annual cost of idling for 1, 10, and 25 trucks:
Magnum AVL GPS Provides Idle Time Per Vehicle and Alerts When Abused
How much idling is right for your fleet? It depends on many things and starts with your ability to be able to measure the “as-is” of each vehicle. You can only manage what you can measure. Magnum AVL GPS equipped vehicles automatically track the idle time of each vehicle.
The idle time report requires only 4 mouse clicks and will provide your fleet totals by truck during any period of time you choose. The report will show the vehicle, date and time, and the number of minutes of idle time. It will also provide a monthly total for each vehicle. Choose “Automated Reports” so it will be emailed automatically to anyone each day, week, or month.
How to Set a Real Time Idle Alert Using Magnum AVL
It is also easy to set an alert when idling is excessive so you or your driver will be notified by email or text message. This will bring real time awareness so corrective action can be taken. See how easy it is by viewing our one minute video:
Need a demonstration or more info about Magnum AVL? Give us a call or use the form below:
As fuel prices rise, more business owners and managers with smaller fleets are looking at GPS tracking. It is difficult to compete in today’s economy without the productivity gains of GPS fleet management.
Some small business owners are concerned that installing GPS fleet tracking will cause a morale problem with their employees and possibly affect their “family” corporate culture. The tips below have been used by Magnum AVL commercial and government fleet owners who have successfully installed GPS fleet and asset tracking.
Focus on Driver Benefits and Recognize Good Behavior
Your good employees won’t mind being tracked. They carry the load when weaker or new employees pull down the team.
GPS tracking provides “command & control” so work is spread evenly
If you use cell phones to communicate, GPS eliminates the “where are you” calls while driving.
You will know when they are delayed due to traffic conditions. Dispatchers can also help drivers get back on track should they become lost.
Proof your drivers were at the correct locations for “No Shows”.
Backup for invoice disputes or complaints involving your vehicles.
Recognize the drivers with the least amount of monthly idling time who save fuel.
GPS reports can eliminate driver logs and provide time card info.
Install GPS in ALL Vehicles in ALL Departments To Avoid Favoritism
Installing GPS tracking in some vehicles (but not all) can be viewed as favoritism and can be perceived negatively by the drivers who are tracked. If you can’t afford to do the entire fleet, look at a leasing or renting the equipment.
Start Saving Fuel With Magnum AVL GPS Fleet Management
Magnum AVL uses state-of-the art equipment with a 3 year warranty, a Google mapping interface, and no long term contract. We have customers from Delaware to California. Contact us using the form below to discuss your requirements or call us at 302-734-9250.
Magnum AVL Live GPS Tracking for Android and Apple Mobile Devices
Fleet location, speed, and history for up to 6 months has been optimized for Magnum AVL users with smartphones and tablets. Our new Mobile Viewer portal provides fast access from your Home screen. Set-up is simple and only takes a couple minutes using your same login info.
List View Can Be Customized to Show Preferred Info
After the single press log-in, the List View control screen shows all of your vehicle, asset, and trailer trackers. You have the ability to show (or hide) and sort the following info:
Map label
Serial number of AVL tracker
Status (length of stop or moving)
Group (for larger fleets)
Odometer
Street Address
Driver
Vehicle VIN number
Most users will want to change the default settings to hide the serial numbers and unhide the address fields.
Map, Street, Satellite, and History View Screens Provide Fast Answers
The same icons found in the desktop version make it easy to use the Magnum AVL Mobile Viewer. From the List View screen a simple button press will launch the Map View or the History View that shows speed and location data for the previous 6 months.
Magnum AVL GPS service pricing plans do not require a long term contract. If you have any questions or need to contact us, please use the form below:
CTech Manufacturing recently added more options to their suite of of lightweight aluminum tactical storage cabinets for public-safety vehicles. The new Trooper series models are specifically designed for mid-size Ford Interceptors and have one or two drawers. CTech’s popular CopBox and ChiefBox (red powdercoat) models are available with several different sizes.
The M40-301 Metro CopBox is a “one-size-fits-all” and available for immediate shipment. The locking flip lid opens to a secure wide open space for flexible storage needs. The cabinet is 12 inches high and does not block the view out of the rear of the vehicle.
As a CTech authorized dealer we can also provide carts, fixed cabinets, and tool drawers too. Contact our Dover, Delaware office to discuss the best storage solution for you. Our phone number is 302-734-9250 (M-F 8-5pm EST) or use the form below.
Magnum Electronics, Inc. 