The UPS Delivery Information Acquisition Device (DIAD IV)
UPS revolutionized the package delivery business in 1991 when it developed and
deployed the first Delivery Information Acquisition Device, known as the DIAD.
More than a decade later, UPS continues its pioneering development efforts with
the fourth generation of the DIAD - the DIAD IV.
 To
ensure maximum flexibility in field transmission capabilities, DIAD IV includes
multiple wireless connectivity options. Each DIAD IV features a built-in GPRS
and CDMA radio, an acoustical modem to facilitate dial-up access if necessary,
and 802.11b wireless local area network connectivity to enable transmission
in a UPS center. The DIAD IV also features a Bluetooth wireless personal area
network and an infrared (IrDA) port to communicate with peripheral devices and
customer PCs/printers.
DIAD IV introduces a revolutionary new feature - Global Positioning Satellite
(GPS) - to the handheld terminal market. UPS plans to use this technology
to provide drivers with more detailed directions to pick-up and delivery points
in order to improve customer service.
The monochrome screen on previous DIADS will be replaced with a color screen
that accommodates more information which can be displayed in an easier-to-read,
more attractive manner. The color screen also enables UPS to color-code messages
transmitted to a driver’s DIAD. Urgent customer pick-up messages, for example,
can be color-coded to alert the driver.
In addition, the DIAD IV contains 128 megabytes of memory - 20 times the capacity
of the DIAD III. UPS will use this expanded capacity to provide new and improved
customer services. Like its precedecessors, the DIAD IV's battery lasts an entire
work day.
The DIAD IV sends delivery information to the UPS data repository as soon as
the delivery information is entered. Drivers simply scan the package bar code,
collect the receiver’s signature electronically, type in the last name
of the receiver and push a single key to complete the transaction and send the
data. There is no need to activate a cell phone or return to the vehicle.
Part of what makes the DIAD such a powerful tool is the system - ODS (On-Demand
Services) - that enables communication with the driver. Every UPS driver automatically
logs into the ODS system first thing in the morning. This allows dispatchers
and center management to access the driver via his/her DIAD throughout the day
by sending generalized text messages. Virtually all drivers start their day
with a list of predefined customer pickup locations for that day. Thanks to
ODS, the addition of a one-time pickup can be added to a driver’s work list
on-the-fly, enabling UPS to take best advantage of the geographic location of
its entire fleet for servicing pickup requests.
By using the DIAD, UPS eliminates the use of 59 million sheets of paper per
year.
The DIAD IV is the most comprehensive tracking device in the delivery industry,
combining data collection and transmission technologies, digital signature capture,
extensive expandable memory and rugged construction to withstand extreme temperatures
and hard falls.
Other Features
| Operating System |
Windows CE .NET |
| Processor |
Intel XScale, 400 MHz |
| Weight |
2.6 lb. |
| Size |
10” x 6.4” x 1.9” |
| Display |
2.8” x 2.1” color |
| Battery |
3.2AH, 7.2v, Li-on |
| Keypad |
45 large, raised keys |
| Audio |
Speaker, microphone |
Development
Designed and manufactured by Symbol Technologies, Inc.
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