Asset Command Unit

The Asset Command Unit (ACU) is a wireless tracking device that uses a global positioning system (GPS) to monitor and report on a railcar’s location and other metrics, including shock and vibration, temperature of contents, open/closed hatch status, and loaded/empty status. This rugged telemetry device is mounted on the railcar or locomotive and features a microprocessor, a GPS receiver, and a digital cellular modem. The power for the unit is provided by a lithium-ion battery, maintained by an integrated solar panel. The ACU provides the location, direction of travel, and speed of the locomotive or railcar. Customers can check the status of their tank cars at any time via a user-friendly, secure Web portal, which is linked to Google Maps and the manufacturer’s back-end database. The ACU System received the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 913 Intrinsically Safe Certification for operation in Class 1, 2, and 3, Division 1 hazardous locations, making it safe for use on tank cars hauling flammable or explosive materials. It is capable of reporting as often as every 15 min to meet anticipated governmental requirements covering the shipment of hazardous materials and toxic inhalants in high-threat urban areas.