Trimble, working with AMERICAN Flow Control, recently introduced a free web and mobile application called AFC Mapper. The app is designed to be used with the latest version of Trimble Unity software, AMERICAN Flow Control (AFC) 2D barcodes and Esri geodatabase platforms. AFC Mapper helps water utilities automate mapping functions, locate and manage assets, and improve the efficiency of field operations.
According to Rami Naber, product manager for Trimble Water, the AFC Mapper App allows water utilities to use a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) approach by allowing technicians to use their current iOS and Android smartphones or tablets, as well as Trimble handheld devices.
AFC Mapper allows utilities to store data about their valves and hydrants in a single place. This includes information captured during construction, such as manufacturing attributes specific to the product, as-built mapping and the management of post-construction maintenance functions.
“At AMERICAN, you often hear us speak of doing things The Right Way,” said AMERICAN Flow Control Division Sales Manager John Hagelskamp. “AFC Mapper is just that. It is the culmination of AMERICAN and Trimble working together to make data collection and asset management easier for utilities. With AFC Mapper, you are working with two of the most well-known names in their fields. This allows many customers to work with products they are already familiar with.”
Using the app, field personnel have quick access to information such as fire hydrant thread specs and the depth of bury of their hydrant. Other information such as size, end configuration, number of turns and direction to open valves can be also be accessed simply by scanning the bar code attached to American-Darling and Waterous fire hydrants, or AMERICAN Flow Control gate valves. By design, everything works together to seamlessly upload the information to data collection forms. Once uploaded, the information is then associated long term with a specific asset. Additional in-field information can be also be captured, including photos and GPS location.
“We’ve all heard the saying, ‘There’s an app for that,’” said Derek Scott, marketing and technical manager for AMERICAN. “AFC Mapper is a technology whose time has come. It provides for a more efficient process, and it saves time and money for the customer, all while using what has become one of our most basic of tools, a smartphone or tablet.”
To learn more about AFC Mapper, contact AMERICAN Flow Control at 800-326-8051, or visit us at www.american-usa.com. AMERICAN Flow Control invites customers to sign up for the free Trimble Unity AFC Mapper by visiting Trimble at www.trimblewater.com/afc-mapper.html.
