ALK Technologies has introduced CoPilot Truck for Pocket PC 6, bringing the truck-specific navigation system to handheld computers, or PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants). ALK says it’s a user-friendly tool for driver retention that also increases operational efficiency and profit. ALK’s mileage and mapping software solutions include PC MILER, which is marking its 20th anniversary.

CoPilot Truck delivers the map data and routing of the soon-to-be-released PC MILER 20 in a small package that can be used in any vehicle. ALK has condensed the truck-sensitive PC MILER North American database into less than 1 gigabyte.

A compact GPS receiver can be placed on the dashboard near the windshield and connected to the Pocket PC by wire or using Bluetooth wireless technology. CoPilot Truck is also compatible with devices featuring integrated GPS receivers.

The ability to automatically recalculate routes based on traffic, construction or accidents is a key benefit for drivers with all types of trucking companies.

It also includes driver/vehicle tracking, messaging, and mobile dispatch functionality. With a separate wireless service plan, the same PDA that keeps drivers on route can provide a low-cost solution for dispatch and operations management. PDA communications can stay with the driver
providing a communications and tracking link even when the driver is out of the vehicle.

Its database includes 6 million miles of U.S. roadways, 13′ 6′ height and 80,000-lb weight restrictions, hazmat and 53’/102″ trailer restrictions, over 100 million North American addresses, 3 million points-of-interest including
truckstops, weigh stations, rest areas and fuel locations, and 31,000 exit numbers. A million kilometers of Canadian roadway and street-level map data is available as an add-on.