MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — PeopleNet is launching what it claims is the trucking industry’s first optionally portable onboard computer: the PeopleNet Tablet. The new product is designed to revolutionize driver efficiency and workflow, and would eliminate the need for additional hand-held devices in the cab, according to company officials.

CEO Ron Konezny says that the Tablet is a response to the transportation industry’s demand for faster workflow and a shorter accounting cycle. “Fleet owners and managers who want to improve performance and cash flow will see this optionally portable onboard computer system with exceptional built-in capabilities as a way to enable drivers to work in virtually any environment while combining the traditional fix mount systems and handheld computing systems,” he said. “Drivers themselves will appreciate having more drive time behind the wheel instead of handling administrative activities in the cab. Tablet gives them the flexibility to handle non-driving tasks, outside of the cab, from any location.”

PeopleNet’s new onboard computing platform captures vehicle and driver management information that can integrate with the back office.

The Tablet features a rugged design and seven-inch touch screen, and combines traditional in-cab functionality such as in-cab navigation, vehicle management (engine diagnostics), eDriver Logs, in-cab training, driver e-mail and messaging, and geofencing with portable options like a camera, barcode scanner, signature capture, and Wi-Fi.

Officials say the Tablet is also the first in the trucking industry to use the Windows 7 operating platform, which the company says opens up the computer to a wide range of peripherals, document formats and advanced applications.

In addition to a docking station for in-cab use and an option for hard mounting, the Tablet comes with both soft and hard keyboard options.

The Tablet will be commercially available in the first quarter of 2011.