PECO Energy Selects Fujitsu-Based Mobile Solution to Automate Philadelphia Utility Operations
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — June 13, 1994 — PECO Energy Co. (formerly Philadelphia Electric Company) is optimizing transmission operations and cutting clerical and maintenance costs throughout Philadelphia by utilizing the "PatrolPad," an innovative mobile computing product developed by Cone Software and Fujitsu Personal Systems Inc.
Using Fujitsu's PoqetPad Plus mobile computer as a foundation, the PatrolPad is a handheld data collection and reporting system. Designed to improve the efficiency of electric utility operations, it increases the accuracy and productivity of transmission structure inspections.
Prior to automating with the PatrolPad, PECO Energy linemen used a paper-based method of recording information gathered during transmission structure inspections. Once inspection information was collected on paper forms, the data was then re-keyed into the central database. The potential for data entry error and additional clerical work led to the need for a more efficient way of collecting and recording information.
"At PECO Energy, we needed a system that would give us a better handle on where repairs are needed," said Frank Koza, director of construction and transmission for PECO Energy. "The PatrolPad allows our linemen to easily record detailed information file doing inspections and is expected to provide a reduction in labor costs."
With the use of the PatrolPad, the linemen are better able to patrol transmission lines by performing detailed ground inspections and digitally recording structure conditions using the computer's pen as an input device. Rather than writing out most inspection findings, linemen use the pen stylus to scroll through lists of choices displayed directly on the computer's screen to select defects, enter comments and verify current file data. This "point and pick" approach speeds data entry. It also standardizes responses from inspectors by preventing omission of required items and enforces consistency by providing specific terms and procedures.
At the end of a shift, the PatrolPad is simply plugged into a cable attached to a standard PC, where data is automatically downloaded. The system allows for the development of detailed transactional and management reports which provide real-time prioritization and analysis of transmission structure repair needs.
"Our relationship with Cone Software resulted in a completely integrated business tool. It has enabled PECO Energy to experience a quick return on their technology investment," said Lou Panetta, executive vice president of Fujitsu Personal Systems. "Users of mobile computers are demanding complete solutions designed for their particular business needs that cut costs and increase their productivity."
"We are committed to developing mobile software solutions that meet the specific needs of vertical industries like utilities," said David Hastings, president of Cone Software. "Our partnership with Fujitsu enables us to leverage our expertise in developing specific software applications which deliver the successful business results that our customers are demanding."
Based in Philadelphia, PECO Energy provides service to 1.5 million electric customers in seven counties in southeastern Pennsylvania and northeastern Maryland.
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Boothwyn, Pa., Cone Software is a software integration and consulting firm and a national leader in industrial pen-based computer software. Cone Software specializes in creating customized mission-specific applications for the Fortune 1000, including pen-based applications, wireless communications, and integration with mini and mainframe computers. The PatrolPad is available now from Cone Software.
Fujitsu Personal Systems Inc., headquartered in Santa Clara, is a leader in providing solutions for data collection and decision support applications through the development of super portable, pen-based and communicating computers. Its solutions are designed to meet the needs of applications where light weight, small form factor and long battery life are essential.
The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Ltd. Fujitsu Personal Systems has North American offices in Santa Clara, Irvine, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Toronto and international offices in England, France, Germany and Italy. Fujitsu Personal Systems Inc. corporate headquarters can be reached at 408/982-9500; product information at 800/831-3183.
CONTACT:
Fujitsu Personal Systems Inc., Santa Clara
Jeff Tingley, 408/982-9500
Walt & Sommerhauser Communications, Santa Clara
Erin Curtis/Cynthia Lempert, 408/496-0900
Cone Software, Boothwyn
David Hastings, 610/497-0300
PECO Energy, Philadelphia
Frank Koza, 610/648-7954