Datafuel News
New Datafuel Barcode Reader System
08-Mar-2017
Datafuel announces its new Datafuel Barcode Reader System (DBRS).
The DBRS gives customers another choice to optimally integrate Datafuel fuel management technology into their businesses operations. Whilst barcodes can be replicated externally, additional user access measures such as PIN’s can be implemented to increase fuel transaction security.
The DBRS uses wireless technology and includes receiver and handheld reader. The barcode media is different to other types of standard Datafuel keys and cards but otherwise system capabilities are the same.
The DBRS can be installed in a variety of physical configurations including stand-alone components or inside lockable cabinets. The handheld reader has an inbuilt coupling bracket enabling customers to install a fixed or retractable cable (not supplied by Datafuel). The handheld reader is placed back on the charger after use.
The reader can be used in conjunction with other console keypad functions.
The DBRS option can operate with all Datafuel DF series consoles.
For more information or contact Datafuel.
New Datafuel Electronic Wand System
08-Mar-2017
Datafuel releases a new version of its Electronic Wand System that enables customers to electronically read tags mounted on plant and equipment.
The Wand System provides another Datafuel option for refueling assets without the need for any keys or cards. It can also read standard Datafuel proximity keys providing enormous flexibility in system setup.
The new Wand System no longer uses a counterweight for return. Wand cables can now be manufactured in lengths up to 10 metres.
The new Wand Reader head is smaller and easier to hold than the previous model and also includes a positioning target.
The option can be fitted to all Datafuel DF Series consoles and has operated successfully at small and large sites including national depot networks.
For more information or contact Datafuel.
Changes in Service Department
16-Nov-2016
Over the last 18 months, Datafuel has been investigating a range of options to increase the quality of its service and support. The investigations included 12 months of independent consultant customer interviews.
The results of those investigations and company responses will be provided to customers in early 2017.
A number of service department changes were undertaken throughout 2016 however some of these caused significant customer inconvenience. Datafuel apologises for any frustrations experienced. Several months were consumed training new engineers that failed to meet company requirements.
It is pleasing to advise that the changes to the service team have now been completed. Kerwin Yap has joined Shane Williams and Morgan Hastings to provide full head office engineering level service support to customers and business partners. Kerwin is an enthusiastic, committed and courteous electronics engineer. Datafuel is excited about the extra skills he brings to the company.
Service department will also be supported by Datafuel R&D engineers. Ex-Datafuel head office technicians are now working with the company as contractors in addition to the companies external national support network.
Telephone support processes have also changed due to Datafuels implementation of a new company VOIP unified communications system. Personnel continue to tune the system to try and get the right balance between human interaction and automated system capabilities.
A number of other service changes are underway.
Datafuel will continue to try and improve its service and support capabilities and will keep its customers informed via general announcements and specific communication.
Australian GSM/2G Network Shutting Down
17-Oct-2016
Customers are no doubt aware that Australia’s GSM/2G networks will be shut down over the next 12 months.
The schedule for shut down is as follows
(Source: M2MOne)
Datafuel customers that still have GSM modems installed will need to upgrade to 3G communications prior to network closure.
Those customers that have already upgraded to 3G have found Datafuels implementation to be far superior to their previous communications setup. The biggest improvement is the change from “dial up – batch data transfer” to live links. This provides live fuel management information and significantly reduces the possibility of lost data due to catastrophic damage at the fuel facility. Data transfer is also faster and more reliable.
If Telstra customers haven’t planned for the upgrade yet they need to contact Datafuel as soon as possible. Implementation options are limited due to the number of MK2/DF Series upgrade and GSM to 3G communication upgrade projects that have been left until the second half of 2016.
New NMI Approvals
14-Nov-2013
Datafuel’s DF5000C and DF9000C commercial range of consoles have received National Measurement Institute (NMI) approval for use in fuel custody transfer applications.
NMI approval provides government tested assurance regarding the accuracy of system operation enabling issue of fuel to contractors and audit conformance with ATO rebate guidelines.
NMI approval assists in meeting Department of Fair Trading enforcement requirements within Australian states.
The NMI approvals currently support DF5000C and DF9000C interfacing with electronic pumps running Gilbarco protocol. Additional NMI approvals for non-protocol pump interfacing will be added in the near future.
The new DF9000C and DF5000C commercial NMI approvals complement the DF9000R which has NMI approval for sale/trade use.
For more information please contact Datafuel Sales on 02 88779400.
New Datafuel Desktop Key/Card Reader Kit
05-Nov-2013
Datafuel releases new Desktop Reader Kit that enables customers to electronically read keys/cards in the convenience of their office without having to travel out to the console.
The reader eliminates the need for manual entry of new key/card numbers into the WinFMS software.
Existing unmarked keys can be quickly identified.
The kit also includes WinFMS software enhancements that work together with the desktop reader to simplify key/card programming processes.
The desktop reader operates with Datafuels new contactless proximity keys as well as a range of other nearfield technologies. It will not operate with the previous generation Datafuel insert style Datakeys.
For more information please contact Datafuel Service on 02 88779460.
New WinFMS File Import Module Released
26-Aug-2013
Datafuel releases new WinFMS file import module that enables improved data integration with third party software applications.
The new module enables import of new/updated data from other software applications such as Fleet Management, Asset Management, Maintenance, Administration, Finance, Personnel and Access Control into Datafuel’s WinFMS. This capability can reduce or eliminate the need to manually enter changes to keep the different software applications in sync, for example when there are personnel or fleet changes.
Datafuel can provide customer IT personnel with assistance to create suitable import specifications. Datafuel programmers will then create the import which can be configured to start manually or automatically by the system.
The new import module adds to Datafuels flexible fuel card data import utility and data export utilities to extend data integration capabilities between software applications.
For more information please contact Datafuel Service Department on 02 88779460.
Datafuel WinFMS Version 9 Released
30-Nov-2012
Datafuel has just released its new WinFMS Version 9 software.
WinFMS V9 contains a range of new features including several that operate in conjunction with new console hardware options.
The release of the software had been delayed due to the complexity of verification testing.
Some of the new capabilities include, configurable fuel facility dashboard, integrated tank gauging, automated vehicle interface, better remote diagnostic tools and much more.
The WinFMS V9 software will be supplied to ALS customers in phases to ensure technical support availability.
For more information please call Datafuel Service Department on 02 88779400.
Datafuel Vehicle Automation System (VAS) Rolled Out
04-Oct-2011
Datafuel has rolled out its new Vehicle Automation System. This comprises onboard “Vehicle Unit” (VU) which electronically records Fleet Number and Odometer reading with data transferred to console via upgraded reader.
Several hundred “Vehicle Units” have now been installed working at multiple customer sites.
Extensive field-testing with co-development customers has ensured a reliable product offering.
One of the benefits of implementing a Datafuel system is the reduction in administrative errors compared with written records. Recent implementation of the VAS technology at one site, which previously used manual log sheets, revealed the following:
- Identification of errors in the accuracy of vehicle odometers
- A 5% error rate in transaction data records
These errors were eliminated after the installation of the Datafuel VAS.
The VAS accuracy revealed other issues involving manual service processes and the electronic recording enabled accurate and easy data transfer to back office applications.
Datafuel’s VAS can be used in multi-diesel pump/single Adblue pump configurations, and can also integrate with a number of site access control systems.
Datafuel Customer Satisfaction Survey Finished
21-Nov-2010
The Datafuel 2010 customer satisfaction survey has now been completed. Original survey forms are available for review at the Datafuel Sydney office.
We would like to thank everybody that participated in the survey. Through your feedback we have a clearer understanding of how the systems are performing in the field, the quality of service you receive and what we can do to do better in future.
It is pleasing to advise both system reliability and service received an average 8 out of 10 rating. That said there is room for improvement with several customers needing immediate assistance.
It was also clear that the new systems with contactless keys and sealed enclosures are substantially more reliable than the older consoles with insert key readers. The majority of service related issues were due to pump issues, PC equipment and IT network failure, facility damage or changed staff/training factors.
Datafuel customers can access survey results by logging into OEM Equipment/Supplemental.