-
your Windows® embedded community
Windows For Devices
your Windows® embedded community
Unsurprisingly, the two units are much the same, though Peterbilt has provided a few more hardware details and photographs than did Kenworth. Said to be based on the Windows Embedded Auto platform and an ARM11 processor, SmartNav includes a seven-inch touchscreen that, among other things, will replace some of the many gauges truck drivers currently have to deal with.
According to Peterbilt, the system's six virtual gauges will provide an operator's choice of information. In addition to the parameters pictured below, the gauges may be programmed to show oil temperature, transmission temperature, current and average fuel economy, diesel particulate filter (DPF) status, and a variety of other info. The system uses the commercial vehicle J1939 SAE standard for communication, monitoring (including hybrid system status), and diagnostics, Peterbilt adds.
Peterbilt says SmartNav also includes a GPS receiver and Garmin navigation software, capable of optimizing routes for a specific truck and its load. The system effectively navigates routes based on truck type, load, height, weight, length, and hazardous load restrictions information, according to the company. It's said drivers will receive voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, up-to-the-minute alerts on traffic conditions, plus a comprehensive guide to Peterbilt dealerships in the U.S. and Canada.
Adding to the information previously supplied by Kenworth, Peterbilt says that SmartNav will include the Opera Mobile web browser. The device's touchscreen may be used to send and receive email or browse the Internet via an optional cellular modem. The display can also be connected to four different truck-mounted cameras, the company adds.
SmartNav also incorporates Bluetooth, a built-in microphone and speaker, and voice-recognition, allowing for hands-free calling. The system additionally has a CD player, AM/FM/Weather receiver, a USB port for flash drives containing MP3 files, and an auxiliary audio input, Peterbilt says.
Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager and vice president, stated, "SmartNav was developed to increase driver safety and vehicle performance, as well as lower costs by decreasing driving routes errors and missed vehicle maintenance. SmartNav also features infotainment previously never seen in the trucking industry."
Background
Though it's new to heavy-duty trucks, Microsoft's Windows Embedded Auto software has been adopted by a variety of automakers. For example: Fiat (as Blue&Me), Ford (as Sync), and Kia Motors America (Uvo). In January, a key components supplier, Continental AG, also announced a modular MMP (Multimedia Platform) that will apparently make Windows tech readily available even to automakers who have not cut their own deals with Microsoft.
"Windows Embedded Auto" is merely the latest moniker for Microsoft's Windows CE-based automotive technology. Microsoft's Windows CE for Automotive was first released in 1998, since when it has evolved into a variety of product offerings. For example, in 2003 it was called Windows Automotive (2003), and by 2006 it was known as Windows Mobile for Automotive.
In March 2009, Microsoft announced Microsoft Auto 4.0, which it said would be made available in the spring to automakers. The new version added a standard interface for broadcast radio tuners, CD playback and ripping support, and support for x86 processors such as the Intel Atom Z530, Z510P, Z530PT, and Z510PT. (These CPUs include integrated heat spreaders, work at up to 185 deg. F, and appear to be Intel's bid to compete with ARM in the automotive world.)
According to Microsoft, the latest release of its software is now Microsoft Auto 4.1, which is based on Windows CE 6.0 R3. Version 4.1 includes the following enhancements, according to the company:
Further information
More information on Peterbilt's SmartNav system may be found on the company's website, here.
More information on Microsoft's Auto 4.1 software may be found on the company's website, here.
