CHASKA, Minn. (Oct. 7, 2004) — PeopleNet Communcations has introduced PeopleNet g3, the company’s next-generation onboard computer.

According to PeopleNet, the g3 computer communicates over multiple wireless networks — digital and analog — providing up to 500 times the bandwidth of first-generation satellite systems.

The g3 takes advantage of 3rd generation — so-called 3G — digital networks offered by Verizon and Sprint, making it possible for much greater amounts of information to be transmitted at a reasonable price, the company says. Among the possibilities are practical onboard printers and scanners capable of dealing with detailed documents; it will also be possible for fleets eventually to enable direct driver access to the Internet.

The g3 includes a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 port like those found on most computers. USB will enable connection to various ancillary devices including multi-media message displays and handhelds, in-cab scanners and printers, Wi-Fi access points, biometric scanners, and more.

The new device incorporates Wide Area Augmentation System technology that enhances the accuracy of GPS positions. According to PeopleNet, position reports can reveal, not only a truck’s location along a road, but which side of the road the truck is on. GPS enhancement and USB combined with much higher digital bandwidth will provide powerful tools to transportation application developers.

PeopleNet’s g3 is remotely programmable and backward compatible with all PeopleNet applications.