Axtec Launches Bigger, Brighter Screen for In-Cab OnBoard System

5 October 2010 Axtec (Axle Weight Technology Limited) has improved the display on its OnBoard axle weighing system with a new screen that is bigger, brighter and sharper. Although the new screen is 30% larger it is contained within the same size outer casing so it occupies no more space in the cab. The company says that the 125 mm wide screen uses the latest TFT technology to give an image that is crisper and clearer - a feature of particular importance when a reversing camera is linked to the system. The enhanced screen is much easier to see in bright sunlight. The new screen size also allows the truck outline and individual axle and overall weight figures beneath it to be more prominently displayed. This is especially important where the image is of a larger vehicle, such as a four-axle truck, as it makes the information more legible and therefore quicker and easier to absorb. Axtec say that another useful feature of the new display is that it automatically dims as the ambient light fades, making it easier on the driver's eyes when driving in gloomy or dark conditions. All the other features of Axtec On-board remain, including the ability to link to a tracking device allowing live information on potential or actual overload situations to be relayed direct to the traffic office. Conversely, this information can be used to identify opportunities to take on extra payload, supporting optimum vehicle usage. The system is on from the moment the key is turned in the ignition, cannot be turned off, and is completely tamper-proof. Throughout a journey the load condition data can also be recorded in real time on a removable SD card, allowing later analysis. Using a simple outline image of a truck and stacks of bricks to represent the load, it gives at-a-glance details of the current load status of the vehicle and the weight on each axle. Using a traffic-light colour coding system, the figures move from green through amber to red to show clearly when an overload is approaching. Audible warnings supplement the visual ones. Axtec OnBoard can be fitted to any two axle rigid vehicle running on air or steel suspension, and three and four-axle trucks with air rear suspension. It is particularly suited to vehicles on multi-drop collection or delivery work where there is always a potential to overload an axle whilst still remaining within a vehicle's legal gross weight. Axtec Sales Director, Derek Hack, says the changes are another example of the constant focus on product improvement by the UK's leading axle weighing specialists. "We constantly gather feedback from our customers and use this to improve our products, making them more user-friendly and introducing more functionality," he says. "The new screen is a significant improvement and for customers who choose the option of linking it to a reversing camera, which is a package we offer, it has the added advantage of requiring only one screen in the already crowded vehicle cab." "With overloads, however inadvertent, having serious consequences for safety and potentially for the operator's O licence, this is a must-have device available as a new vehicle fit or a retrofit and is available at a value-for-money price."