20.04.2009

Manitowoc signs with Orbcomm

Manitowoc Crane has announced a partnership with Orbcomm, the global satellite data communications company.

The deal focuses on providing machine-to-machine communications for Manitowoc’s CraneStar crane monitoring system that helps owners monitor their crane fleets almost anywhere in the world. Click her to see article

Scott Blair, director of global telematics at Manitowoc, said: "CraneStar gives customers timely information on their crane fleet, no matter where they or their cranes, are in the world. It is the most comprehensive asset management system our industry has ever seen. At present no other OEM in our business is able to offer fleet managers this level of information to help them plan lift scheduling or maintenance schedules."

Orbcomm will provide the satellite communications portion of the CraneStar system through its network of low Earth orbit satellites which provide cost-effective tracking, monitoring and messaging capabilities around the world.

Marc Eisenberg, chief executive officer of Orbcomm, said: "Tracking equipment hours, location and performance is a major step toward improving equipment utilization, our involvement with CraneStar helps crane owners leverage their assets and become more productive and profitable in the field."