An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a device used in the transportation industry to track the hours of service (HOS) of commercial drivers. The device is used to record the driver’s driving time, on-duty time, and off-duty time to ensure that they comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. The ELD automatically captures and records data from the engine, including the vehicle’s speed, location, and engine hours.

One of the main reasons for the need for ELDs is to improve safety on the roads. By monitoring drivers’ HOS, the ELD ensures that drivers are taking adequate breaks and rest periods, which helps prevent fatigue-related accidents. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents involving commercial vehicles, and by reducing the number of accidents caused by driver fatigue, ELDs improve road safety.

Another reason for the need for ELDs is to improve efficiency in the transportation industry. By automatically recording driver data, ELDs reduce the need for manual record-keeping, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. The devices can also provide real-time information on vehicle locations, which can help shippers and carriers optimize their logistics and reduce delivery times.

ELDs also provide benefits for drivers themselves. With ELDs, drivers no longer need to keep paper logs, which can be lost or damaged, and they can easily access their driving records to ensure that they are complying with regulations. ELDs also protect drivers by ensuring that they are not being pressured by their employers to drive beyond their HOS limits.

The need for ELDs in the transportation industry is clear. The devices improve safety on the roads by preventing accidents caused by driver fatigue, increase efficiency by reducing manual record-keeping, and provide benefits for both drivers and carriers. With ELDs, the transportation industry can improve its operations and ensure that drivers are compliant with regulations, making our roads safer for everyone.

To simplify the process of configuring an Electronic Logging Device, the transportation industry can transform Android tablets into ELD by setting the Eld App in single app mode or kiosk mode.

How to Turn Android Tablet into ELD:

Turning an Android tablet into an electronic logging device (ELD) is a relatively simple process that can be completed with the right tools and software. Here are the steps to transform an Android tablet into an ELD:

Step 1: Choose the Right Tablet The first step is to choose a tablet that is compatible with the electronic logging device app. The tablet should have a large enough screen to display the ELD information clearly, and it should have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection. It is recommended to choose a tablet with long battery life to ensure that it can run for extended periods without requiring frequent charging.

Step 2: The next step is to download the electronic logging device app to the tablet. There are many ELD app options available, including free and paid versions. Ensure that the software is compliant with the FMCSA regulations.

You can simplify this process with device management solution like CubiLock, easily select and publish ELD app from a unified web console and publish it to all enrolled devices in seconds! Check the steps below:

1. Sign in to your CubiLock Portal.
2. Create/edit device profile.
3. Select the ELD app and choose “kiosk” as Install Type.
4. Save the settings.

Step 3: After installing the app, follow the installation process that involves running an installation wizard and agreeing to the software’s terms and conditions. You can run the app in multi or single app mode as well.

Step 4: Connect to the Vehicle’s Engine The tablet must be connected to the vehicle’s engine to capture the necessary data required for ELD compliance. This can be done through the vehicle’s diagnostic port, which can be found underneath the dashboard. A hardware device, such as a Bluetooth dongle or an OBD-II adapter, can be used to establish a connection between the tablet and the vehicle’s engine.

Step 5: Test the ELD System Once the ELD app and hardware are installed and connected, test the system to ensure that it is functioning correctly. Check that the ELD is accurately recording the driver’s HOS and that it is properly transmitting the data to the carrier’s back-end system. The tablet’s GPS system should also be tested to confirm that it is accurately tracking the vehicle’s location.

Step 6: Mount the Tablet in the Vehicle The tablet should be mounted in a safe and convenient location within the vehicle. It should be easily accessible to the driver but not obstructing their view of the road. There are many mounting options available, including dashboard mounts, windshield mounts, and headrest mounts.

Turning an Android tablet into an ELD is a cost-effective way for small carriers and owner-operators to comply with the FMCSA regulations. By following these simple steps, the tablet can be transformed into a reliable and effective ELD system. However, it is important to note that the tablet and ELD app must meet the FMCSA regulations for the ELD mandate.