Hardware
There have been, to date, four recognizable generations of fuel management system ;
1st Generation : A padlock for security and a clipboard and pencil for recording the fuelling.
2nd Generation : A self contained, microprocessor controlled fuel island control system which has an ID reader (Key,Card, RFID Etc.) to identify the vehicle and driver, a means of controlling a pump, a means of measuring the fuel delivered, and usually, a means of reporting fuel drawn by vehicle. The fleet list is usually input using an integral keypad.
3rd Generation : A Fuel Island control system similar to a second generation system, which is either periodically, or permanently connected to a PC which is used to report on the fuellings and input the fleet information.
4th Generation : The fuel island controller is fully connected directly to a central Internet based server which is updated in real time. All fleet information and transactions are held on the central server. Connection is made from the fuel island to the server using GPRS, or can use the operators own network using a Wi-Fi or Cabled Network Link. It should be noted that continuous Internet connection can not be guaranteed and hence any fourth generation system must have a fall back white/black list, usually built in real time from previous authorisations.
The principle advantages of a real time system are that site operation can be monitored in real time, stock figures are always current, and, with integrated tank gauging, fuel theft from tanks and short deliveries can be identified immediately.
The principle advantages of a web based system are that information is easily made available to all interested parties, allowing all to run reports and investigate issues. Data is viewable not only by the user, but by support staff so that any issues are resolved quickly with a phone call. There are no compatibility issues with software as only a web browser is required to view data. Software may be centrally updated to the advantage of all.
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