Altech Netstar Traffic
Altech Netstar – the leading stolen vehicle tracking and recovery, and fleet management
company in Southern Africa – has joined forces with the global leader in traffic
information – ITIS (www.itisholdings.com) to form Altech Netstar Traffic (ANT).
ANT is the first to bring intelligent, real-time traffic flow information and journey
times to the motoring public of South Africa in a variety of applications.
How Does It Work?
ITIS has developed a unique and patented method of extracting data from vehicles
installed with GPS tracking systems. In both cases
the data is completely anonymous, and cannot be traced back to the individual vehicle
or mobile device. This data undergoes intense mathematical analysis, and is overlaid
on a coded street level map. The proprietary codes enable ANT to calculate and predict
the speed and congestion between key intersections on freeways and secondary roads.
The content of this information is enriched by adding traffic incident data, such
as ‘road works’ or ‘vehicle accident’.
How Is The Information Applied?
Mobile Devices. Any navigation-enabled mobile device can receive traffic
information via GPRS messages. These are overlaid on the map based on the device
or sent to the device, and the user is alerted to congestion and offered alternative
routing.
Portable Navigation Devices. PNDs (certain models available from Garmin)
are able to receive traffic information via the Traffic Message Channel
(TMC) transmitted on a Radio Data Signal (RDS).
In-Vehicle SatNav Systems. Tests are currently underway to deliver the traffic
information to vehicles pre-installed with satellite navigation systems. This service
will be introduced by selected Motor Manufacturers in 2010.
A Web Service
This web service provides a very practical and affordable alternative to consumers
that do not have access to PNDs or navigation-enabled mobile phones. The following
functions are available to the subscriber:
- view the traffic congestion on the traffic heat map;
- identify major incidents that could be affecting the traffic;
- plan and plot regular routes traveled, and
- receive SMS traffic notifications prior to departure on those routes.
To access this service please login in the top right corner. Please note that the
minimum monthly fee for this service is R22.00, which is payable in quarterly installments.
What Areas Does This Service Cover?
Service is available countrywide in major metropolitan areas.The remaining cities in South Africa will follow in early
2010.
Further information can be obtained by contacting info@netstartraffic.co.za