The unit can be self-powered with three nine volt batteries thus eliminating the need to provide power from the vehicle for short duration tests. The small size of the unit has made it possible for Jacobsen to greatly increase testing at remote locations which the company has recently carried out at California, Nevada and Florida golf courses. The entire unit including laptop computer fits into one oversized briefcase which can be packed as carry-on luggage. Future plans include purchasing the DADiSP data analysis software which is compatible with the SoMat system and will provide advanced analysis capabilities. Finally, the company is planning to investigate the capability of the SoMat unit to rotate along with the axle to perform tests on axles, wheel hubs and rims without the need for slip rings or telemetry.
Current plans are to use the unit for all future field test prototype development work.