MOXA's UC-7420 embedded computer is a miniature front-end computer for device networking applications that is ideal for vehicle monitoring systems. The UC-7420's small size, multiple connection options, no-fan/no-hard-drive design, and programmable Linux operating system combine to give system designers a great tool for building a robust system that can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Proximal vehicle monitoring involves detecting or observing vehicles that enter a fixed "live zone." Important vehicular behavior can be obtained by establishing multiple live regions at different locations. There are two types of proximal monitoring: Smart Vehicle Monitoring and Dumb Vehicle Monitoring.

Smart Vehicle Monitoring

In this case, a computer with a wireless Ethernet card installed is located in the vehicle. The live zone is the connection region of a wireless LAN. When the vehicle enters the wireless LAN region, the vehicle connects to the network to download information to a central location, or receive updates from headquarters.

Dumb Vehicle Monitoring

In this case, the vehicle operates independent of the monitoring device. Monitoring is usually done by a surveillance camera. Vehicles are monitored as they enter and leave the zone, and with the right kind of software, speeds can be recorded, with pictures stored for later reference.

• No fan, no hard drive design for longer MTBF
• CompactFlash slot for adding gigabytes of storage space
• Multiple connection options for greater networking versatility
• Programmability gives system integrators infinite possibilities