Do you have a question about the Blue Sky Network HawkEye 5500 and is the answer not in the manual?
The HawkEye 5500 is a robust tracking and communication device designed for vehicle deployment, offering a suite of features for monitoring, communication, and emergency response. It is intended to provide reliable connectivity and location services, particularly in environments where traditional cellular coverage may be limited.
At its core, the HawkEye 5500 serves as a comprehensive telematics unit, enabling real-time tracking and data transmission from vehicles. Its primary function is to report the vehicle's position, allowing for effective fleet management and situational awareness. The device integrates both cellular and Iridium satellite communication capabilities, ensuring connectivity across a wide range of geographical areas, including remote regions. This dual-mode communication system provides redundancy, automatically switching to the most reliable network available.
Beyond basic tracking, the HawkEye 5500 facilitates two-way communication. It includes features for sending and receiving messages, which can be crucial for operational coordination and safety. The device is equipped with a waypoint button, allowing users to mark and transmit specific locations, which can be useful for reporting points of interest or critical incidents.
A significant aspect of its functionality is its emergency response capability. The device features a dedicated emergency button that, when activated, signals an urgent situation. This can trigger alerts to designated monitoring centers or personnel, providing critical information about the vehicle's location and the nature of the emergency. This feature is vital for enhancing safety and enabling rapid response in distress situations.
The HawkEye 5500 also offers integration with the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system. This allows the device to collect and transmit data related to vehicle performance and health, providing insights into engine status, fuel consumption, and other critical parameters. This diagnostic capability supports proactive maintenance and efficient vehicle operation.
The HawkEye 5500 is designed for straightforward installation and user interaction within a vehicle environment. Its control panel, located on the front of the unit, provides clear visual indicators and accessible buttons for key functions.
The Power Button & Charging LED serves multiple purposes. A green light indicates that the unit is powered on. Different colors and blinking patterns communicate the battery status: yellow for less than 50% charge, red for low battery, and a blinking red for a dead battery. A blinking light also indicates that the unit is currently charging. This intuitive feedback system allows users to quickly assess the device's power status.
The Signal Status LED provides information about the active communication mode and signal quality. A green light signifies cellular mode, while a purple light indicates Iridium satellite mode. A red light warns of a bad signal, prompting users to reposition the vehicle or check for obstructions to improve connectivity.
The Message Waiting LED, when green, alerts the user to an unread message, ensuring that important communications are not missed.
The Waypoint Button & LED allows users to easily send their current position. A green light confirms that the position is being sent, providing immediate feedback on the action.
The Emergency Button & LED is a critical safety feature. A blinking red light indicates that an emergency has been requested, while a solid red light signifies that an emergency is actively being transmitted. This clear visual cue ensures that the user is aware of the emergency status.
For installation, the device requires a connection to the vehicle's power system. It supports both 12V and 24V systems, with specific connections for positive (fused), negative/ground, and switched power. The switched power connection ensures that the unit powers on when the vehicle is running, automating its operation.
The rear panel of the device provides various ports for external connections, enhancing its functionality. These include ports for an Iridium antenna, a GNSS (GPS) antenna, an emergency switch, audio out, the OBD interface, power and ignition, and an optional external cellular antenna. These connections allow for optimal signal reception and integration with other vehicle systems.
The device's default reporting rate is set to 10 minutes when moving and 1 hour when stationary, with most features initially disabled. This default configuration is a safety measure, requiring users to log into the SkyRouter platform to update their configuration settings and unlock the full feature set. This ensures that the device operates according to specific user requirements and optimizes data usage.
The HawkEye 5500 is designed with ease of maintenance in mind, particularly concerning its power source. The battery installation process is straightforward, requiring the removal of two screws from the battery cover door to insert or replace the battery. The unit powers on automatically upon proper battery installation, providing immediate confirmation that the battery is correctly seated. After installation, the screws are replaced to secure the battery. This simple procedure allows for quick and efficient battery replacement, minimizing downtime.
The device's robust construction is intended to withstand the rigors of vehicle deployment, reducing the need for frequent physical maintenance. The visual indicators on the control panel, such as the Power Button & Charging LED, provide continuous feedback on the battery's health, allowing users to anticipate and address charging needs before they become critical.
Furthermore, the ability to update configuration settings via the SkyRouter platform serves as a key maintenance feature. This allows administrators to remotely manage the device's operational parameters, such as reporting rates and feature activation, without requiring physical access to the unit. This remote management capability streamlines maintenance tasks and ensures that the device is always operating with the most current and appropriate settings for its deployment.
The diagnostic capabilities through the OBD interface also contribute to maintenance by providing valuable data on vehicle health. By monitoring vehicle performance, potential issues can be identified early, facilitating proactive maintenance of the vehicle itself, which in turn ensures the optimal operating environment for the HawkEye 5500.
In summary, the HawkEye 5500 is a comprehensive vehicle tracking and communication solution, offering robust functionality for location monitoring, two-way messaging, emergency response, and vehicle diagnostics. Its user-friendly design, clear visual indicators, and remote management capabilities contribute to its ease of use and maintenance, making it a reliable tool for various operational needs.
| Category | Automobile Accessories |
|---|---|
| GPS | Yes |
| Connectivity | Iridium Satellite |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Features | Geofencing |
| Communication | Iridium Short Burst Data (SBD) |
| Water Resistance | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 3.25" x 2.5" x 1" (82.55mm x 63.5mm x 25.4mm) |