Walk By Receivers

HandTrackIT is Blue Tower's hand-held receiver component. When connected to a hand-held meter reading computer, it enables a pedestrian meter reader to walk down a street and collect readings from the Transponders via radio. The HandTrackIT system allows for a combination of visual, touch and radio reads on one route, i.e. fitting the Blue Tower Transponder to those meters which are difficult-to-read, while continuing to read some meters visually.

Operation

HandTrackIT is designed to work with a hand-held computer or PC. The HandTrackIT is connected with a cable from its LEMO connector port to the serial port of the computing device. Power is also taken from the hand-held computer via this connection. The power consumed (60 mA typically) by the HandTrackIT does not materially affect the hand-held computer.

Compatibility

HandTrackIT interfaces with many popular hand-held computers and route management systems. The simple RAMIC interface protocol enables ASCII data to be exported into a variety of route management and billing systems.

Physical Characteristics

HandTrackIT is designed to be carried by hand, on a shoulder harness or on the belt of the meter reader. The 900 Series HandTrackIT is a light (10 oz.) and compact (5 1/2 in. x 3 in. x 1 in.) device that is designed to operate in harsh utility environments.

All HandTrackITs have a rugged carrying case with a belt loop that allows for easy carrying. Inside the HandTrackIT cloth case is a welded metal case that is sealed and should not be opened. Additionally, the HandTrackIT has a fixed antenna which is 3 inches long. The HandTrackIT has a LEMO-type connection port that connects the HandTrackIT to a PC or hand-held computer.

HandTrackIT Features

• HandTrackIT easily interfaces to most hand-held terminals, including: Allegro, Northrop Grumman, Psion, Radix, Telxon and others
• HandTrackIT integrates to most route management software including those provided by Greentree Applied Systems, Hersey-Meters, Northrop Grumman, Radix, SLC Meter Service and others
• Simple RAMIC protocol enables easy integration into many popular route management systems
• Allows for combination of radio, touch pad and visual reads on one round
• No interrogation signal is required which results in faster read times
• Small and lightweight; can be belt or shoulder harness mounted