The Complete Guide To A Career In Trucking
The Trucking Lifestyle: Technology, Electronics, & Entertainment
In terms of technology, drivers will need to become proficient with their Qualcomm system, as well as any GPS systems that they are using.
Depending on the in-cab arrangement, many drivers bring their computers, TV's, etc., on the road with them.
Drivers with smartphones and good data plans often use them in place of computers to stream video, video-chat with family, etc.
What kinds of technology do truck drivers need to learn about and use?
Regardless of what company you choose, your truck will almost certainly have a Qualcomm system installed in it.
In short, the Qualcomm is a messaging system, usually with a built-in GPS, that drivers and companies use to communicate.
Qualcomm is a messaging system with GPS built in which is tied into the truck's computer and allows trucking companies to track where the driver is at, monitor the truck, and send and receive messages with the driver
Forum - Paper Logs Versus Elogs
If it was up to me I'd roll the logbook rules back to what they were back about 15 years ago but require everyone to use electronic logs. I think that creates safe driving conditions and a fair and level playing field for all companies.
Forum - Questions about Qualcomm GPS
How accurate is the GPS on the Qualcomm? Is that the only GPS truckers use to find their location besides an Atlas? Or do truckers use their phone GPS?
Just watched a video where SWIFT is going to install dash and in cab cameras on all trucks in 3 phases over the next 18 months. It's official now, not just rumors.
It is recommended that you choose a GPS unit specifically designed for commercial drivers. Generally, they will provide you with information not normally available on "pedestrian" units".
If you get pulled over or selected for random inspection, how do you show the DOT or police officer your log? Does your Qualcomm have a printer or do you just let them in the cab to read off of a screen?
Video - Qualcomm & E-Logs
Can I take my electronics on the road with me?
Many drivers bring their laptop computers with them on the road, and everyone has a cell phone or smart phone, these days, so if you have space, and have the power arrangement, you can really bring whatever you want with you.
Keep in mind that many companies have specific policies regarding the size of inverter that drivers can use, or don't allow them at all.
Forum - Best Cell phone companies
Verizon has the best coverage of any network but they're also the most expensive. AT&T is a close second in coverage and also very expensive. The others are cheaper for good reason.
Forum - Wifi at the truck stops
Well I would like to hear from those of you that have rented wifi time at the truck stops. How good was your service? Did your pages load quickly? Were you able to watch You Tube or anything similar without it stopping to buffer??
Forum - Computers, Internet and trucking (Video games)
I want to bring my Xbox on the road, is this a realistic possibility? If there are any gamer's who truck with a game system how do you manage a TV and does the road tear up your game system?
Forum - Questions about Inverters and Truck Companies
I have an 800 watt one that plugs into the 12v however i cannot pull that much without blowing fuses. I have an 18 inch gaming laptop if i turn on both video cards it instantly blows fuses.
What do truck drivers do for entertainment on the road?
Most of your time will be spent driving, sleeping, or eating. In the event that you get some free time on the road, there are a lot of possibilities, both in the truck and out, for entertaining yourself. Many drivers bring their computers, or at least an internet-accessible phone, with them to keep in touch with family, watch movies, etc.
Many drivers live like they're homeless, not keeping a home base, or apartment, etc., and their time off or "home time" is spent on the road finding cool things to do wherever they may be.
Forum - What is your in truck entertainment for down times?
I promise your first three months all your gonna do is drive, eat, sleep and shower. Once your body gets accustomed to the long trips you might have time. Just maybe.
Forum - Entertainment out on the road
Trucking is filled with long, difficult days. It's easy to get so caught up in it that you never give yourself a chance to truly wind down and relax. It's healthy and relaxing to do something that completely absorbs your thoughts and gets them away from trucking altogether.
Forum - You Tube Trucking Videos
In my research of becoming a trucker, I came across several you tube Vloggers that have provided daily videos showing the trucking lifestyle. Some have been doing it for years, others are just starting.
Forum - Truck Drivers Road Music
Today, I was driving through northern Montana and I had Pearl Jam Radio on XM. This stretch of desolate, stark, unforgiving road went perfectly with the moody, angsty music from Eddie and the boys.
Anything that will keep your mind engaged (without becoming a distraction, of course) will help. It definitely helps if you have an active imagination... if nothing else you could ponder the meaning of things and figure things out in your mind while driving
Forum - Trucking Company Name Acronyms
I love a good laugh, and the other night I was talking with some of the other students of Celadon who are at various places in their training. We came across the topic of acronyms that people have came up with over the years
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