Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile 

Communications Tracking System 

Requirements 

March 2006
Foreword 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been investigating methods to 

improve carrier security, particularly in the area of hazardous materials security. The 

transportation of hazardous materials is the largest security risk area within the motor carrier 

industry, with more than 800,000 shipments of hazardous materials transported each day in the 

United States. This project builds on two key FMCSA projects involving secure commercial 

motor vehicle (CMV) operations: the Hazardous Materials Safety and Security Field Operational 

Test (Hazmat FOT), and the Untethered Trailer Tracking and Control System. In 2004, the 

Senate Conference Report 108-401 stated that further CMV tracking capabilities were necessary: 

“As proposed by the Senate, the conference agreement directs $2,000,000 from 

funds provided for the high-priority initiative program for an expanded satellitebased communications system to monitor and track hazardous materials and 

high-value cargo in uncovered areas of the United States.” 

This document outlines the requirements for this expanded satellite-based communications 

system, provides a detailed breakdown of the individual technologies used, and explains how 

they will be field-tested to provide evidence that the technologies meet the designated 

requirements. 

The information in this document regarding the potential security, safety, and operational 

efficiency benefits of commercially available trailer tracking technologies, can be used by motor 

carriers and the public sector emergency response and enforcement communities. Motor carriers 

may decide to purchase and implement this technology to improve overall safety, security, and 

operational efficiency. The emergency response and enforcement community could use the 

technology to better respond to potential trailer security incidents. 

 

In Fall 2005, FMCSA conducted a pilot test to develop and test an expanded satellite-based 

communications system specified in this document. This document does not supersede an earlier 

report on the subject. 

Notice 

This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the Department of Transportation in 

the interest of information exchange. The United States Government assumes no liability for 

its contents or use thereof. 

This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. 

The United States Government does not endorse products or manufacturers. Trade or 

manufacturers’ names appear herein only because they are considered essential to the object of 

this document. 
 

Technical Report Documentation Page

1. Report No.

FMCSA-MCRRT-06-005 

2. Government Accession No. 3. Recipient's Catalog No.

5. Report Date 

March 2006 

4. Title and Subtitle 

Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking System Requirements 

6. Performing Organization Code 

7. Author(s) 

David Williams (Battelle); Derrick Vercoe, Peggy Erlandson, and Jennifer Wittpenn 

(QUALCOMM); and Amy Houser (FMCSA) 

8. Performing Organization Report No.

9. Performing Organization Name and Address 10. Work Unit No. (TRAIS) 

 Battelle Memorial Institute 

505 King Avenue 

Columbus, OH 43201 

11. Contract or Grant No.

DTMC75-04-F-00105 

13. Type of Report and Period Covered 

Interim Report, January 2004 – December 2005 

12. Sponsoring Agency Name and Address 

Department of Transportation 

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Office of Research and Analysis 

400 Virginia Ave. SW, Suite 600 

Washington, DC 20024 14. Sponsoring Agency Code 

FMCSA 

15. Supplementary Notes 

This program was administered through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA Program Manager is Ms. Amy

Houser. 

16. Abstract 

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) funded this pilot test to 

(1) Develop generic voluntary requirements for an Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking System using 

as a model a proprietary system that includes specific capabilities, and 

(2) Field test a system that meets these requirements.

This document outlines the requirements for this Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking System and provides 

a detailed breakdown of the individual technologies tested in the field test. 

17. Key Word

Asset Tracking System, Commercial Motor Vehicles, Efficiency, 

Hazardous Materials, Mobile Communications, Motor Carriers, Safety, 

Satellite, Satellite-based, Security, Tethered Tracking System, TractorTrailers 

18. Distribution Statement 

19. Security Classif. (of this report) 

Unclassified 

20. Security Classif. (of this page) 

Unclassified 

21. No. of Pages 

29 

22. Price 

N/A 

Form DOT F 1700.7 (8-72) Reproduction of completed page authorized.
SI* (MODERN METRIC) CONVERSION FACTORS

APPROXIMATE CONVERSIONS TO SI UNITS APPROXIMATE CONVERSIONS FR

Symbol When You Know Multiply By To Find Symbol Symbol When You Know Multiply By 

LENGTH LENGTH 

in inches 25.4 millimeters mm mm millimeters 0.039 inft feet 0.305 meters m m meters 3.28 feyd yards 0.914 meters m m meters 1.09 Yami miles 1.61 kilometers km km kilometers 0.621 m

AREA AREA 

in2 square inches 645.2 square millimeters mm2 mm2 square millimeters 0.0016 sqft2 square feet 0.093 square meters m2 m2 square meters 10.764 sqyd2 square yards 0.836 square meters m2 m2 square meters 1.195 sqac acres 0.405 hectares ha ha hectares 2.47 acmi2 square miles 2.59 square kilometers km2 km2 square kilometers 0.386 sq

VOLUME VOLUME 

fl oz fluid ounces 29.57 milliliters ml ml milliliters 0.034 flugal gallons 3.785 liters l l liters 0.264 gaft3 cubic feet 0.028 cubic meters m3 m3 cubic meters 35.71 cuyd3 cubic yards 0.765 cubic meters m3 m3 cubic meters 1.307 cu

MASS MASS 

oz ounces 28.35 grams g g grams 0.035 oulb pounds 0.454 kilograms kg kg kilograms 2.202 poT short tons (2000 lbs) 0.907 megagrams Mg Mg megagrams 1.103 sh

TEMPERATURE (exact) TEMPERATURE (exact) 

°F Fahrenheit 5(F-32)/9 Celsius °C °C Celsius 1.8 C + 32 

temperature or (F-32)/1.8 temperature temperature 

ILLUMINATION ILLUMINATION 

fc foot-candles 10.76 lux lx lx lux 0.0929 fl foot-Lamberts 3.426 candela/m2 cd/m2 cd/m2 candela/m2 0.2919 

FORCE and PRESSURE or STRESS FORCE and PRESSURE or STR

lbf pound-force 4.45 newtons N N newtons 0.225 psi pound-force 

per square inch 

6.89 kilopascals kPa kPa kilopascals 0.145 

*SI is the symbol for the International System of Units. Appropriate rounding should be made to comply with Section 4 of ASTM E380.
Acknowledgments

The Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking System Project was 

administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Technology 

Division. Managed by Ms. Amy Houser of FMCSA, the project included multiple 

developmental and operational phases. The report was improved with input from government, 

public sector, and transportation industry professionals. FMCSA established a partnership with a 

review team comprised of participants from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), 

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Maritime Administration (MARAD), Pipeline and 

Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and Department of Defense (DoD). We

would like to thank and recognize the support provided by the following individuals: 

Joe DeLorenzo, Federal Motor Carrier 

 Safety Administration 

Deborah Freund, Federal Motor Carrier 

 Safety Administration 

Mike Onder, Federal Highway 

 Administration 

Kate Hartman, Federal Highway 

 Administration 

Bill Aird, Maritime Administration 

Mario Harley, Department of Defense 

John Lambert, Pipeline and Hazardous 

 Materials Safety Administration 

Robby Moss, Transportation Security 

 Administration 

Ken Troup, North River Consulting Group 

Mike Wolfe, North River Consulting 

Group 

An expert panel comprised of stakeholders from Landstar, J.B. Hunt, GeoLogic Solutions, and 

Skybitz provided expert opinions and advice for this project. We appreciate the contributions of 

this group. 

Elaine Chaudoin, J.B. Hunt 

Jay Folladori, Landstar 

Tom Cuthbertson, GeoLogic Solutions, Inc. 

Sam Gill, Skybitz 

 i 
Table of Contents 

1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 1

2.0 PROJECT PURPOSE....................................................................................................... 2

3.0 REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................ 3

3.1 DEVELOPING REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................. 3 

3.2 FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................. 4 

3.2.1 Messaging from the Satellite-Based Communications System ................................... 5

3.2.2 Mapping and Location of Tractors with the Satellite-Based Communications 

System. ........................................................................................................................ 6

3.2.3 Mapping and Location of Tethered Trailers with the Tethered Trailer Tracking 

System ......................................................................................................................... 7

3.2.4 Panic Button Alerts with the Satellite-Based Communications System..................... 8

3.3 SYSTEM INTERFACE REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................... 9 

3.3.1 Interface Configurations for the Satellite-Based Communications System................ 9

3.3.2 Incorporation of Fleet Management Tools with the Satellite-Based Mobile 

Communications System ........................................................................................... 10

3.4 DATA REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................... 11 

3.4.1 Test Information Stored ............................................................................................ 11

3.4.2 Test Data Collection Rates ....................................................................................... 11

3.5 HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS...........................................13

3.5.1 Hardware Requirements........................................................................................... 13

3.5.2 Software Requirements ............................................................................................. 14

3.6 LIFECYCLE REQUIREMENTS................................................................................... 16 

3.6.1 Hardware Life Expectancy ....................................................................................... 16

3.6.2 Ability to Accommodate Future Requirements on the Satellite-Based 

Communications System ........................................................................................... 17

3.7 TEST PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS.................................................................... 17 

3.7.1 Accuracy ................................................................................................................... 17

3.7.2 Repeatability ............................................................................................................. 18

4.0 ACRONYMS.................................................................................................................... 19

5.0 DEFINITION OF TERMS ............................................................................................. 20

6.0 APPENDIX ...................................................................................................................... 22

 ii 
1.0 Introduction 

The safe and secure transport of hazardous materials (hazmat) and high-value cargo in the United 

States is a critical concern, particularly in light of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. 

Over 800,000 hazardous material loads are hauled per day by commercial motor vehicles 

(CMVs); therefore, these vehicles are potential targets for hijacking and use as mobile weapons 

of mass destruction (WMD). Furthermore, on a daily basis, over 50,000 loads of high-value 

commodities (electronics, apparel, pharmaceuticals, etc.) are hauled by large trucks, which are 

attractive targets for increasingly bold cargo thieves. Theft of high-value cargo incurs costs of 

millions of dollars per year in losses to trucking companies and their insurance carriers. 

Reducing the vulnerability of these vehicles to acts of theft and domestic terrorism is vital. In 

addition, the ability to respond rapidly to hazmat incidents is crucial following an accident or 

attack. 

Following September 11, 2001, FMCSA has been testing and evaluating technologies to improve 

the safety, security, and efficiency of CMV operations. Two key FMCSA projects involving 

secure CMV include the Hazardous Materials Safety and Security Field Operational Test 

(Hazmat FOT) and the Untethered Trailer Tracking and Control System Project. In these 

projects, FMCSA tested and evaluated the effectiveness of vehicle and cargo tracking systems. 

These systems provide location information to on-site carrier personnel on a regular basis. This 

information can be shared with carrier-authorized third parties, such as public sector agencies. 

In 2004, the Senate Conference Report 108-401 stated that further CMV tracking capabilities are 

necessary: 

“As proposed by the Senate, the conference agreement directs $2,000,000 from 

funds provided for the high-priority initiative program for an expanded satellitebased communications system to monitor and track hazardous materials and 

high-value cargo in uncovered areas of the United States.” 

For the Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking System (ESCT) project, 

FMCSA is working in partnership with a review team comprised of participants from the 

Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), 

Maritime Administration (MARAD), Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 

(PHMSA), and Department of Defense (DoD). 

 1
2.0 Project Purpose 

The purpose of the FMCSA ESCT project is to test an effective, wireless, satellite-based mobile 

communications tracking system to monitor hazmat and high-value cargo that will help eliminate 

missed calls and improve wireless communications in current uncovered areas of the United 

States. In these locations, the threat of a theft or hijacking of a large truck transporting hazmat 

and using it as a weapon of mass destruction is a major concern. In addition, mobile 

communications services may not be typically deployed in these locations due to unique 

geography and other factors. As a result, a major goal of this project is to improve 

communications in the event of an emergency, while enhancing trucking operations en route and 

for each phase of movement – pick up, delivery, receipt, and storage. 

Improved communications have the potential to enhance the security, safety, and efficiency of 

commercial vehicles, trailers, and shipments in expanded regions of the United States. The 

regions selected for the pilot test were Alaska and Hawaii. In Alaska, State and local officials 

are particularly concerned about the hazmat shipments that are transported along the Dalton 

Highway from Prudhoe Bay in the north to Anchorage and other cities in the south. If a terrorist 

attack were to occur in Alaska, authorities believe that the pipeline would be one of the likely 

first targets. In addition, the vast and harsh nature of the Alaskan region, and limitations in 

currently available communications systems, make vehicle breakdowns and other emergencies a 

potentially life-threatening situation. While far smaller in total land mass than Alaska, the 

Hawaiian Islands share a need for an expanded satellite-based mobile communications tracking 

system to help address productivity, safety, security, and environmental concerns. 

A 3-month pilot test will be conducted to provide data on the corridors where hazmat and highvalue cargo are regularly hauled. This report provides the functional requirements for the 

satellite-based communications system that will be tested. 

3.0 

 2 
Requirements 

3.1 Developing Requirements 

Table 1 provides an overview of functional requirements for testing and evaluating the 

technology in the pilot test. These top-level requirements were used to create this Operational 

Requirements document. 

Table 1. Top-level Requirements Overview

1. Messaging – The system shall provide the ability to send and receive text messages and 

macros between dispatch and the tractors. 

2. Location and Mapping of Tractors – The system shall provide a mapping of tractor 

locations. It shall provide a location history for a tractor with mapping. 

3. Location and Mapping of Tethered Trailers – The system shall provide trailer location 

updates from tractor positions when tethered. 

4. Accurate Times of Trailer Connect and Disconnect Activities – The system shall 

provide time-tagged and position-tagged event messages for connect and disconnect 

events. 

5. Panic Button Alerts – The system shall automatically send out a panic message 

displaying time, date, and location. 

The system supplier, QUALCOMM, will provide its satellite-based communications system with 

panic buttons and a tethered trailer tracking unit in the ESCT pilot test. The two pilot test 

scenarios are outlined below. 

Scenario 1: Uncovered Territory: Alaska (High-value Cargo and Hazardous Materials) 

Scenario 1 includes the use of satellite-based mobile communications terminals, on-board and 

wireless remote panic buttons, and tethered trailer tracking. This scenario includes tracking the 

high-value truckload and hazardous material portion of the trucking industry mainly out of the 

Anchorage and Fairbanks areas. The participants will supply 100 tractors for the installation of 

the satellite-based communications systems to haul high-value loads and hazmat. The hazardous 

loads will contain munitions, explosives, fuel, hot oil, and sulfuric acid. The loads will vary 

throughout the season and will be delivered throughout the State. 

The key users of the system will be the on-site carrier personnel and drivers. The on-site carrier 

personnel will utilize the route monitoring, tractor positioning, trailer positioning, messaging to 

the tractor, and panic button features. The drivers will view, send, and receive text messages 

using the on-board driver interface unit. 

 3 
The unique characteristics of this scenario are tractor utilization and positioning in remote areas 

of Alaska. 

Scenario 2: Uncovered Territory: Hawaii (High-value Cargo and Hazardous Materials) 

Scenario 2 includes the use of satellite-based mobile communications terminals and on-board 

and wireless remote panic buttons. This scenario involves the transportation of both hazmat and 

high-value cargo out of an Oahu, Hawaii terminal. The participant in Hawaii will supply five 

tractors for the installation of the mobile communications system. The participating carrier is a 

bulk fuel carrier located on Honolulu, Kahului, and Lihue, Hawaii, and the typical “runs” range 

from 10-200 miles throughout the Hawaiian Islands. 

The key users of the system will be the on-site carrier personnel and drivers. The on-site carrier 

personnel will utilize the satellite-based communications system, route monitoring, positioning, 

and messaging. During the pilot test, the dispatchers will monitor tractor-trailer locations; send 

and receive text messages, and receive alerts from panic button activations. The drivers will 

send and received text messages using the on-board driver interface unit and activate the onboard or wireless panic buttons to report an emergency. 

Both of these scenarios provide a cross-section of the different types of trucking operations in the 

uncovered regions. Table 2 depicts the mapping of system functions to the two scenarios. 

Table 2. Requirements to Scenario Mapping 

Scenario Function 

1 2 

Messaging X X

Location and mapping of tractors X X

Location and mapping of tethered trailers X

Accurate times of trailer connect and disconnect activities X

Panic button alerts X X

3.2 Functional Requirements 

Functional requirements refer to basic system functionality and operation of the satellite-based 

communications system that will be tested in the pilot test for this project. The ESCT project 

shall expand the satellite-based mobile communications coverage region in Alaska and Hawaii. 

The tested system shall include a two-way text messaging system for a driver and a carrier to 

communicate in “near-real-time” in addition to providing visibility, alert notifications using 

panic buttons, and tethered trailer tracking systems.∗

 

∗

The default tractor position frequency is typically one hour; therefore, the carrier’s ability to track the vehicle is 

defined as “near-real-time,” depending on when the latest position report was received. However, a tractor position 

can be requested at any time and a position report can be received within 2 to 3 minutes for tractors that are 

powered on. 

 4 
The following functions will be tested during the pilot test: 

• Direct two-way data and text communications between the driver and the carrier, 

including free form, macro, or binary messages 

• Positions of the tractor, including the time and date and the tractor positions associated 

with any transmitted message 

• On-Board and wireless panic notifications 

• Trailer connect and disconnect notifications 

• Tethered trailer positions and mapping 

• Integration into the carrier’s back office systems 

The following sections contain the definitions, performance constraints, and functional 

requirements for the systems that will be tested in the pilot test. 

3.2.1 Messaging from the Satellite-Based Communications System 

Definition

The satellite-based mobile communications terminal is a twoway satellite data communications and tracking system that 

links a trucking company’s tractor to its dispatch center. 

The QUALCOMM system that will be tested in the pilot test is 

shown in Figure 1. A Global Positioning System (GPS) 

receiver provides current tractor positioning with latitude and 

longitude. Tractor position information is generated with every 

message. Position information can be generated upon demand 

from the dispatch computer, and position reporting frequency is 

configurable. Two-way data communications enable messaging 

between drivers and on-site carrier personnel 24 hours a day, 

regardless of the tractor’s location. The system consists of rugged hardware for the harsh on-theroad environment, web-based host software, and network services that are fully redundant and 

operated 24 hours a day to ensure that each message is successfully transmitted. 

Figure 1. Satellite-Based 

Mobile Communications 

Terminal 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.2.1-1. The satellite-based communications system shall provide two-way text 

communications between driver and on-site carrier personnel in free-form text 

messages and macros (pre-formatted messages). 

3.2.1-2. The satellite-based communications system shall include a driver interface unit which 

allows the driver to send and view messages to and from on-site carrier personnel. 

 5 
3.2.1-3. The satellite-based communications system shall allow users the ability to integrate 

data from the satellite-based communications system to the user’s back office 

systems. This integration capability is described in Section 3.3.2. 

3.2.1-4. The satellite-based communications system shall provide a tractor position report 

with each message. The position report shall include the tractor’s latitude and 

longitude, and the date and time that the message was sent from the tractor. 

3.2.1-5. The satellite-based communications system shall include a web-based host software 

application that displays all messages and tractor positions to the on-site carrier 

personnel. 

3.2.2 Mapping and Location of Tractors with the Satellite-Based Communications 

System 

Definition

Using the satellite-based communications system, tractor position information, including the 

latitude, longitude, date, and time, is shown through a web-based host application. This 

application enables on-site carrier personnel to track the current position of a tractor and view a 

history via stored position reports of the tractor’s location on its route. In addition, on-site carrier 

personnel can view the location of one or more tractors on a map using the web-based host 

software application that shows the tractor’s proximity to a pre-defined town, city, or landmark. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.2.2-1. The satellite-based communications system host software application provides tractor

position information to enable on-site carrier personnel to track a tractor in “near-realtime”.∗

 Tractor position information shall include, at a minimum, the tractor’s 

latitude and longitude, and the date and time. 

3.2.2-2. The satellite-based communications system host software application shall provide a 

history of the tractor’s positions. Tractor position history information shall include 

tractor identification number (ID), tractor position (latitude and longitude), date, time, 

macro (i.e., a message that indicates that the load has been picked up, dropped, etc.), 

and nearest town and city to the tractor. 

3.2.2-3. The satellite-based communications system shall provide tractor position information 

via the GPS. 

3.2.2-4. The satellite-based communications system shall provide a default tractor position 

frequency of one hour. The tractor position frequency shall be configurable by the 

user if they desire another position frequency. 

 

∗

The default tractor position frequency is typically one hour; therefore, the carrier’s ability to track the vehicle is 

defined as “near-real-time,” depending on when the latest position report was received. However, a tractor position 

can be requested at any time and a position report will be received within 2 to 3 minutes for tractors that are 

powered on. 

 6 
3.2.2-5. The satellite-based communications system host software application shall allow 

users to issue requests to check the position of the tractor in between the scheduled 

mobile initiated position reports. 

3.2.2-6. The satellite-based communications system host software application shall include a 

mapping application that will display the position of one or more tractors on a map. 

3.2.2-7. The satellite-based communications system mapping application shall provide streetlevel mapping. (There is no maximum limit to the number of tractors that may be 

displayed on maps, although in an area densely populated with tractors, viewing can 

be difficult.) 

3.2.2-8. The satellite-based communications system host software application shall support 

the creation, modification, and deletion of custom landmarks by authorized users. 

3.2.2-9. The satellite-based communications system host software shall support the display of 

tractor positions with proximity to the nearest pre-defined landmark, if configured as 

a user preference. (This allows the user to display all position reports in terms of the 

tractor’s proximity to a landmark.) 

3.2.2-10. The satellite-based communications system host software shall support the query for 

tractors near a specified landmark within a specified distance. (This allows the user 

to query for any tractor within a certain distance from a landmark.) 

3.2.3 Mapping and Location of Tethered Trailers with the 

Tethered Trailer Tracking System 

Definition

The satellite-based mobile communications tracking system provides 

tractor-trailer location updates from tethered tractor positions. Using 

the tethered tracking unit shown in Figure 2, connection and 

disconnection events are captured and transmitted via the satellitebased communications system terminal to notify the on-site carrier personnel that a trailer has 

been connected or disconnected from the tractor. For example, a trailer is typically disconnected 

from the tractor when the tractor-trailer arrives at a destination so that the trailer may remain to 

be unloaded while the tractor departs to pick up and move another trailer. The tethered trailer 

tracking system consists of the satellite-based communications system terminal, the tethered 

trailer tracking unit, and a tethered trailer tracking host software application. 

Figure 2. 

Tethered Unit 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.2.3-1. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall store the last known 

position of each trailer equipped with a tethered trailer tracking unit. (These positions 

are updated when the system detects a connection or disconnection event from the 

tethered trailer tracking unit.) 

3.2.3-2. The tethered trailer tracking system shall provide alerts notifying on-site carrier 

personnel of all tractor-trailer connections and disconnections. 

 7 
3.2.3-3. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall provide views of all 

trailers that are connected and disconnected from tractors with the satellite-based 

communications system terminal at or near a landmark. 

3.2.3-4. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall display on a map the last 

known trailer positions and trailer position histories of trailers that are connected and 

disconnected from tractors with the satellite-based mobile communications tracking 

system terminal. The position information shall include latitude, longitude, date, and 

time. 

3.2.3-5. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall provide a view of a 

position history of the tractor trailer’s location at a particular time to enable the onsite carrier personnel to track the trailer connected to a tractor with the satellite-based 

mobile communications tracking system. 

3.2.3-6. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall allow the on-site carrier 

personnel to view only trailers connected to tractors with the satellite-based mobile 

communications tracking system. 

3.2.3-7. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall provide printable reports 

for the system user to view one or all trailer position histories, the last status report 

for a trailer, idle trailers, and trailers near a specific landmark that were connected or

disconnected from a tractor with the satellite-based mobile communications tracking 

system. 

3.2.3-8. The tethered trailer tracking host software application shall provide views of trailer 

inventory counts by landmark using the last known trailer position of a trailer 

connected or disconnected from a tractor with the satellite-based mobile 

communications tracking system. 

3.2.3-9. The tethered trailer tracking system shall detect and record the time and position of

all tractor-trailer connections and disconnections where the accuracy shall be 100% 

within 2 minutes of the event. 

3.2.3-10. The tethered trailer tracking system shall relay tractor-trailer identification numbers 

(IDs) with every connection and disconnection event, as well as position, date, and 

time. 

3.2.4 Panic Button Alerts with the Satellite-Based Communications System 

Definition

In combination with the satellite-based communications system, panic buttons provide real-time 

emergency alert message notifications by the driver to the on-site carrier personnel. As shown in 

Figure 3, two panic buttons, wired on-board and wireless, were tested. During the pilot test, the 

participant designated two points of contact and provided phone numbers to respond to these 

alerts. 

 8 
 

Figure 3. On-Board and Wireless Panic Buttons 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.2.4-1. The on-board panic button shall be mounted in the tractor’s dashboard with the 

satellite-based communications system terminal. 

3.2.4-2. The wireless panic button shall operate within a maximum range of 150 feet from the 

satellite-based communications system terminal. 

3.2.4-3. The satellite-based communications system shall send an email and/or pager alert 

notification to a user when the panic button is activated. 

3.2.4-4. When a panic button is activated, the satellite-based communications system shall 

send the panic message notification to the web-based host software application for the 

satellite-based communications system within 2 minutes. This message shall have 

priority over any other queued messages. 

3.2.4-5. When the emergency message is received at the network operations center (NOC), 

the NOC personnel shall place an emergency call to previously designated points of 

contact. 

3.3 System Interface Requirements 

3.3.1 Interface Configurations for the Satellite-Based Communications System 

Definition

In order for the satellite-based communications system to provide the full functionality of the 

system, several pieces of hardware will need to be installed on the tractor and trailer, and then 

integrated. The hardware described below includes the satellite-based communications system, 

the on-board panic button, the wireless panic button, and the tethered trailer tracking unit. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.3.1-1. The following satellite-based communications system interfaces shall be supported 

during the pilot test: 

 9 
• Outdoor Unit (ODU) – The outdoor unit houses the antenna to send and receive 

information over the air (OTA) from the NOC. The ODU is mounted on the 

tractor’s exterior and is connected to the communications unit via a satellite-based 

communications system’s antenna cable. 

• Enhanced Display Unit (EDU) – The EDU is the driver interface to the satellitebased communications system. It is used to send and receive text messages to and 

from on-site carrier personnel. The EDU is mounted in the tractor’s interior and 

is connected to the communications unit via a cable. 

• Communications Unit – The communications unit contains the operating circuitry 

and memory for the satellite-based communications system terminal. It is 

installed in the tractor’s interior and connected directly to the engine, where it 

receives power via a power cable and engine data via a 37-pin I/O cable. 

• On-Board and Wireless Panic Buttons – The panic buttons are used to send panic 

notifications to the NOC and on-site carrier personnel. The on-board panic button 

is mounted in the tractor’s interior and is connected to the communications unit 

via the 37-pin I/O cable.

• Tethered Trailer Tracking Unit – The tethered trailer tracking unit provides 

tractor-trailer connection and disconnection information to the dispatch center. 

The tethered trailer tracking unit is installed on the trailer’s exterior and connected 

to the tractor via the tractor’s J560 connector (7-way connector). The tethered 

unit is then connected to the communications unit by connecting the J560 to the 

37-pin I/O cable. 

• J560 Connector – The J560 connector is the standard connector used on the 

electrical cable that bridges the tractor and trailer. The tethered trailer tracking 

unit will interface with this connector to determine connection and disconnection 

events. It will also communicate with the tractor communications unit via the 

J560. 

• Host Interface – The host interface presents information to the user and allows the 

user to view and send messages, view tractor position reports, position histories, 

and panic messages, request tractor and trailer position updates, and view trailer 

connection and disconnection messages. For the pilot test, the host interfaces 

shall include the satellite-based communications system host software application, 

and the tethered trailer tracking host software application. The satellite-based 

communications system host software application shall provide a documented 

interface for integration to the user’s back office systems. 

3.3.2 Incorporation of Fleet Management Tools with the Satellite-Based Mobile 

Communications System 

Definition

The satellite-based mobile communications systems can be integrated into back office fleet 

management systems. Fleet management tools include desktop access to summary performance 

data, timely trailer connection and disconnection status, and mapping. 

 10
Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.3.2-1. Automated macros and payroll information shall pass through the satellite-based 

mobile communications system’s host software into the user’s back office fleet 

management system. 

3.3.2-2. The tethered trailer tracking system shall send all connection and disconnection event 

notifications to the user’s back office system which may be utilized as an indication 

of trailer detention time. 

3.4 Data Requirements 

This section describes the test data requirements for all data saved during the pilot test for the 

satellite-based mobile communications system. 

3.4.1 Test Information Stored 

Table 3 describes the information that will be collected and stored during the pilot test. The table

outlines the technologies used and the data elements and fields that will be collected, stored, and 

distributed at least once every 2 weeks for the duration of the test. 

3.4.1-1. All user data shall be retained online for a period of time configurable by authorized 

users – from a minimum of 14 days to a maximum of 6 months. (Users may create 

their own systems to capture and store information indefinitely.) 

3.4.2 Test Data Collection Rates 

Definition 

The test data collection rate specifies the frequency of recording the pilot test information. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.4.2-1. Pilot test data shall be continuously recorded from all of the technologies installed on 

the tractors and trailers in “near-real-time” throughout the entire pilot test. 

3.4.2-2. Pilot test data shall be collected from both host systems at least once every 2 weeks 

for the test duration. 

 11 
 Table 3. Test Data Elements and Fields 

Functional 

Category Technology Data Elements Data Fields 

Satellite-Based Communications System 

Vehicle 

Communications 

QUALCOMM

OmniTRACS – SatelliteBased Mobile Tractor

Communications System

• Macro messages 

• Text messages 

• Binary messages 

• Positions

• Timestamp 

• Macro # and version 

• Origin (vehicle) 

• Latitude/longitude, length 

• Type (text/binary) 

• User fields 

Vehicle and Cargo 

Tracking 

QUALCOMM

OmniTRACS – SatelliteBased Mobile Tractor

Communications System

• Positions • Timestamp 

• Origin (vehicle) 

• Latitude/longitude

• Proximity (city, town, landmark) 

Web-based Host Systems 

Data Management

and Storage 

QUALCOMM

QTRACS/WEB for the 

Satellite-Based Mobile 

Tractor Communications 

System

• Two-way text

messaging 

• Mapping 

• Panic alerts 

• Trailer connect and 

disconnect status 

• Timestamp 

• Macro # and version 

• Origin (vehicle) 

• Latitude/longitude, length 

• Type (text/binary) 

• Trailer ID 

• Event type 

• Timestamp 

• Tractor number 

• Alert 

Tethered Trailer Notification and Tracking 

Tethered Trailer 

Tracking 

QUALCOMM Tethered

Trailer Tracking System

• Connects 

• Disconnects 

• Timestamp 

• Trailer ID 

• Origin (vehicle) 

• Latitude/longitude

• Event type

Real-Time Emergency Notification

Panic Alert On-Board Panic Button • Panic alert • Timestamp 

• Tractor number 

• Alert 

• Latitude/longitude

Panic Alert Wireless Panic Button • Panic alert • Timestamp 

• Tractor number 

• Alert 

• Latitude/longitude

 12 
 

3.5 Hardware and Software Requirements 

3.5.1 Hardware Requirements 

3.5.1-1. For the pilot test, the satellite-based communications system shall consist of the 

following: 

• Driver Interface Unit – Installed inside the tractor, the driver interface unit 

provides two-way text communications between the driver and the on-site carrier 

personnel. 

• Outdoor Unit – Installed near the top or on top of the tractor in a position with a 

clear view to the sky, the outdoor unit includes a transceiver, a GPS antenna for 

location determination, and an antenna for communication with the satellite. 

• Communications Unit – Installed on the tractor’s exterior, the communications 

unit contains the operating circuitry and memory for the satellite-based 

communications system terminal. 

• Cables – Cables connect the satellite-based communications system terminal to 

the installed sensors, tethered trailer tracking unit, tractor power, and battery. 

• On-Board Panic Button – The on-board panic button is installed on the dashboard 

of the tractor. 

• Wireless Panic Button – The wireless panic button is a key fob. 

• Tethered Trailer Tracking Unit – Installed on the outside of the trailer, the 

tethered trailer tracking unit provides tractor-trailer connection and disconnection 

information. 

Installation Constraints 

3.5.1-2. The satellite-based communications system shall send and receive satellite signals at 

a 12 degree angle above the horizontal plane of the unit, since it requires an 

unobstructed line-of-sight view to the satellite to clearly send and receive signals at 

all angles above 12 degrees. 

3.5.1-3. Any obstruction height shall be a maximum of 2.5 inches for every 12 inches away 

from the satellite-based communications system centerline. 

Cables/Connectors 

3.5.1-4. All connectors shall be differentiated from each other to prevent incorrect attachment. 

Electromagnetic Interface (EMI) Shielding 

3.5.1-5. All EMI shielding shall be built into the terminal and associated hardware; external 

shielding shall not be required. 

 13 
 

Marking 

3.5.1-6. The external hardware marking shall, at a minimum, clearly identify the 

manufacturer, part number, and serial number. 

3.5.1-7. The external hardware shall include required regulatory markings. 

Electrical Power Range and Limits

3.5.1-8. The applicable hardware shall support a direct power feed of a 12 volt (V) tractor 

battery. 

3.5.1-9. The hardware shall conform to the electrical test limits of Society of Automotive 

Engineers (SAE) Standard J1455. 

3.5.1-10. The hardware shall conform to SAE Standard J1113-13 Electromagnetic 

Compatibility Measurement Procedure for Vehicle Components for electromagnetic 

compatibility and electrostatic discharge. 

Circuit Protection 

3.5.1-11. The hardware shall have no internal fuses or circuit breakers that require manual 

intervention to reset. (External fuses or circuit breakers may be required for safety 

purposes.) 

3.5.2 Software Requirements 

Definition

The satellite-based communications system host software applications provide a way for the onsite carrier personnel to view tractor and trailer information, such as messages, tractor positions, 

panic messages, and trailer positions. 

The software used with the satellite-based communications system and on-board and wireless 

panic buttons will be hosted by QUALCOMM and may be accessed by users through the 

Internet. The user will host the software for the tethered trailer tracking system. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

Messaging with the Satellite-Based Communications System 

3.5.2-1. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall support the transmission of freeform or macro messages to every tractor 

in the fleet with an installed mobile communications unit. 

3.5.2-2. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall store all incoming messages in the database, including all messages 

coming from or going to a tractor, trailer connection and disconnection messages, and 

panic messages. 

3.5.2-3. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide a view all of messages sent to or received from a tractor. 

 14 
 

Messages include all freeform and macro text messages and alerts generated by the 

on-board and wireless panic buttons. 

3.5.2-4. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall support the configuration of satellite-based communications system

parameters by authorized users. 

3.5.2-5. The satellite-based communications system shall activate a message waiting light to 

indicate to the driver when a message has been received from the on-site carrier

personnel. 

Tractor Positioning with the Satellite-Based Communications System 

3.5.2-6. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall store all positions received from tractors. 

3.5.2-7. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide a display of positions and position histories for all tractors, 

either in a list or on a map. 

3.5.2-8. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide the distance of the tractor from a user-defined place.

3.5.2-9. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide updated position reports from the satellite-based 

communications system. 

3.5.2-10. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide a monitoring screen for the user to view all tractors. This will 

display the tractor’s unit number, most recent position, actual position, date and time, 

ignition status, and status of tractor record. 

3.5.2-11. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide a monitoring screen for the user to view all messages. This will 

display the message type, priority, status, unit number, receive time, macro number 

(if appropriate), and message. 

3.5.2-12. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system on shall provide a monitoring screen for the user to view all alerts. This will 

display the alert, alert time, unit number, tractor position, and alert type. 

3.5.2-13. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall provide the tractor locations nearest another tractor, landmark, or zip 

code. 

Host Administration for the Satellite-Based Communications System 

3.5.2-14. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system shall support the administration of system settings including creation, 

modification and deletion of users, tractors, macros, coverage groups, landmarks, 

system preferences, and user preferences. 

3.5.2-15. The web-based host software application for the satellite-based communications 

system application shall limit users to only access their own user account data. 

 15 
 

Web-based Host User Interface 

3.5.2-16. The web-based host user interface for the satellite-based communications system

shall provide access to the data from an Internet browser. (Microsoft Internet 

Explorer version 6.0 or later is recommended.) 

3.5.2-17. The web-based host user interface for the satellite-based communications system

shall support a password-protected secure log-in access to the user’s account for 

authorized users. 

Tethered Trailer Tracking with the Satellite-Based Communications System 

3.5.2-18. The tethered trailer tracking host software shall allow authorized users to view and 

edit trailer details including trailer ID, Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC), trailer 

type, and description. 

3.5.2-19. The tethered trailer tracking host software shall display all connection and 

disconnection events, including event type, date and time of event, and position of 

tractor-trailer. 

3.5.2-20. The tethered trailer tracking host software shall display trailer positions and trailer 

position histories on a map. 

3.5.2-21. The tethered trailer tracking host software shall provide position information, 

including latitude, longitude, date, and time. 

3.5.2-22. The tethered trailer tracking host software shall provide the position history of the 

trailer’s location at a particular time while connected to a tractor to enable on-site 

carrier personnel to track the connected trailer in “near-real-time.” 

3.6 Lifecycle Requirements 

Lifecycle requirements include hardware life expectancy and the ability to accommodate future 

requirements. 

3.6.1 Hardware Life Expectancy 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

The hardware for the tractor and trailer was designed specifically to operate within the harsh 

environments of CMV. While the actual useful life of the equipment varies with the specific 

environments where it is exposed, all hardware has been designed to perform within specific 

performance minimum standards. 

3.6.1-1. The satellite-based communications system terminal, tethered trailer tracking unit, 

and on-board and wireless panic buttons shall have a useful life of at least 5 years 

from the date of manufacture. 

 16 
 

3.6.2 Ability to Accommodate Future Requirements on the Satellite-Based 

Communications System 

Definition

The satellite-based communications system terminal will provide upgrade capability allowing 

patches or upgrades to the satellite-based mobile communications terminal firmware. 

Local/manual upgrade capability of the satellite-based communications system terminal allows 

“bug fixes,” regular maintenance upgrades, and installation of new features to mobile terminal 

firmware by touching fielded equipment. The local upgrade feature requires the tractor to go 

into a shop. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements (Local/Manual)

3.6.2-1. Local upgrades of the satellite-based communications system terminal shall be 

initiated and controlled by a certified technician. 

3.6.2-2. The local upgrade feature of the satellite-based communications system terminal shall 

allow users to request an upgrade for its entire fleet. 

3.6.2-3. The local upgrade feature of the satellite-based communications system terminal shall 

require the use of a laptop computer with proprietary upgrade programs. 

3.6.2-4. The local upgrade feature of the satellite-based communications system terminal shall 

require a 20-minute download of new parameters and a system verification check. 

3.7 Test Performance Requirements 

The following sections list key requirements for minimum system performance that will be 

required during the pilot test. 

3.7.1 Accuracy 

Definition

Position accuracy is a function of GPS receiver performance, configuration parameters, satellite 

visibility of the antenna, satellite constellation, and U.S. Government-controlled Selective 

Availability (SA). A standard for GPS accuracy has not been defined. Every manufacturer uses 

its own means of defining, measuring, and calculating position accuracy. 

Performance Constraints and Requirements

3.7.1-1. The location accuracy of the satellite-based communications system with default 

configuration parameters shall be 100 meters, 95 percent of the time. (This level of

accuracy takes into consideration the uncontrollable variables that may affect 

performance.) 

 17 
 

3.7.2 Repeatability 

The system shall provide repeatable performance throughout the test period for all functions 

specified in this document. 

Availability of the QUALCOMM NOC has been at least 99.9 percent for 5 consecutive years 

from 1999-2004. This includes both planned and unplanned downtime. The satellite-based 

communications system is expected to perform with similar reliability, but performance is highly 

dependent on local conditions during the test. Performance may vary by region and is dependent 

on variables such as terrain around the mobile terminal. 

 18 
 

4.0 Acronym List 

CD Compact Disk 

CDMA Code Division Multiple Access 

CMV Commercial Motor Vehicle 

CVO Commercial Vehicle Operations 

DoD Department of Defense 

EDU Enhanced Display Unit, used with OmniTRACS Mobile Units 

EMI Electromagnetic Interface 

ESCT Expanded Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Tracking 

FHWA Federal Highway Administration 

FMCSA Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 

FOT Field Operational Test 

GLS Global Locating System

GPS Global Positioning System 

Hazmat Hazardous Materials 

MARAD Maritime Administration 

MTBF Mean Time Between Failure 

NOC Network Operations Center 

ODU Outdoor Unit 

OTA Over the Air 

PHMSA Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 

ROI Return on Investment 

SA Selective Ability 

SAE Society of Automotive Engineers 

SCAC Standard Carrier Alpha Code 

SMCT Satellite-Based Mobile Communications Terminal 

TSA Transportation Security Administration 

WMD Weapons of Mass Destruction 

 19 
 

5.0 Definition of Terms 

Accept/Reject Load Assignment 

Macro 

Macro that allows driver to accept or reject the load 

assignment 

Arrived Macro Macro sent by driver when arriving at a stop 

Arriving at Consignee Macro Macro sent by driver when arriving at consignee 

Arriving at Shipper Macro Macro sent by driver when arriving at shipper 

Autoconnect Tethered Trailer Tracking – automatic association of trailer 

with Mobile Unit 

Beep Interval Global Login – time, in seconds, between audible beeps 

from EDU prompting driver to log on 

Cargo Tracking Process of monitoring load location 

Consignee Load destination

Depart from Shipper Macro Macro sent by driver when departing from shipper 

Emergency Notification Process of notifying the carrier and law enforcement of an 

emergency situation at the tractor 

End of Load Macro Macro sent by driver once the load has been delivered 

Free-Form Message A message composed by the sender with no more than 50 

lines or 1,900 characters 

Landmark A specific location or identifiable natural or man-made 

geographic feature (The landmark database is supplied 

with the web-based host software and cannot be modified 

for the purposes of this test.) 

Load Assignment Macro Macro containing all of the load information 

Macro Message A preformatted message that may contain data input fields 

that the user or an external application fills before sending 

Message Priority Controls the re-transmission scheme and priority of outbound messages 

Nearest City Any populated area that has a census count of over 

100,000 people 

Nearest Town Any populated area that has a census count of between 

1 and 100,000 people 

 20 
 

NOC QUALCOMM’s Network Operations Center, which 

processes and manages the messaging traffic between the 

dispatch center and the fleet 

OmniTRACS Omni (meaning everywhere) Thin Route Alphanumeric 

Communications System 

On-Board Wired Panic Button QUALCOMM’s cab-mounted button used to send panic 

messages 

Outbound Message Message from NOC to Communicator 

Over-the-Air Message Wireless message, Ku Band, or Terrestrial Code Division 

Multiple Access (CDMA) 

Panic Button QUALCOMM’s on-board or wireless panic button 

PICK The PICK operating system (referred to as “the PICK 

system” or simply PICK) is based around a unique 

demand-paged, multiuser time-sharing operating system, 

“multi-valued” database

Position Position refers to either a tractor or trailer’s latitude and 

longitude at the time that the position report was sent over 

the air 

Pre-Filled Macro Macro in which certain fields are automatically filled by 

the system

QTRACS/Web QUALCOMM’s software interface for mobile 

communications systems that allows users to send and 

receive messages and display tractor locations 

Satellite-Based Mobile 

Communications Unit 

QUALCOMM’s Ku Band OmniTRACS Satellite Mobile 

Communications Unit 

Tethered Trailer Tracking Tracking with QUALCOMM’s tethered trailer tracking 

unit, which sends trailer connect and disconnect events to 

the Mobile Unit in the tractor

Trailer Disconnect Process of disconnecting trailer from tractor 

Trailer Connect Process of connecting trailer to tractor 

Wireless Panic Button QUALCOMM’s key fob panic button is comprised of a 

transmitter and receiver used to send panic messages 

 21 
 

6.0 Appendix 

Table 4. References and Applicable Documents 

Document 

Number/Name Description 

MIL-STD-810E Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests 

MIL-STD-810D Military Standard Environmental Test Methods and Engineering 

Guidelines

SAE J1455 

Joint Society of Automotive Engineers/Technology Maintenance Council 

(SAE/TMC) Recommended Environmental Practices for Electronic 

Equipment Design (Heavy-Duty Trucks) 

SAE J1113-13 Electromagnetic Compatibility Measurement Procedure for Vehicle 

Components 

 22 
For more information on the Federal 

Motor Carrier Safety Administration and 

the Office of Research and Analysis, 

Check our website at www.fmcsa.dot.gov

Report No. FMCSA-MCRRT-06-005