
VMX: TREQMDT
Version: 2.0
Hardware Installation &
Configuration
03/04/19

VMX Installation Guide
The VMX device is the first version of TrackIt's vehicle-mounted devices. Some of its distinguishing
features are the cellular antennas and GPS puck included with the device. Later versions of this
device and their installation guides are available on the Devices page.
Overview
In this installation guide, the main steps for performing a field installation of the VMX: TREQMDT
device include the following:
1. Ensure you have all the required equipment and tools for the installation. Most of the
equipment needed will be included with the unit, but some will need to be supplied on-site.
2. Install the mobile data terminal (VMX) and antennas. Knowing the best practices for
installation will ensure the equipment works correctly.
3. Run engine diagnostics. This optional step requires the use of additional equipment listed in
the hardware requirements.
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VMX Installation Guide
Hardware Requirements
The VMX: TREQMDT unit comes with a mobile data terminal, cellular antennas, power cables,
GPS, and a mounting bracket.
Hardware Components
Verify the following components are included in the installation kit:
Component VMX: TREQMDT
Description A mobile data terminal meant for
interfacing with TrackIt.
Component Cellular Antennas
Description
Come with cables and
connectors.
Meant for mounting on the
roof or a mirror.
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VMX Installation Guide
Component Power, ground, & ignition cable
OR 9/6 pin engine diagnostics
cable with power, ground, and
ignition. (OBDII connector may be
included for use with Mack trucks,
model year 2014+.)
Description
Component GPS Puck
Description
The power, ground, and
ignition cable connects the
MDT to the engine's power.
The 9 /6 pin engine
diagnostics cable connects
the MDT to the engine's
power, but it also provides a
connection to the engine's
ECU.
A GPSreceiver and
antenna.
Connects to the MDT at the
back with the coaxial cable.
Component RAM® MDT Mounting Bracket
Description Rugged, adjustable mount.
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VMX Installation Guide
Required tools and equipment
Mounting fasteners for the MDT
Fasteners for mounting the GPSantenna
Cable ties for securing cables to the vehicle
Fuses to protect device
Before beginning the installation process, refer to our Installation Warnings for the driver
tablet, as they are relevant for the VMX: TREQMDT installation and our BYOD & BYOD
EDC Policy.
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Install the VMX
Prior to securing your mount and dock, review the following Installation Warnings.
The installation for the VMX: TREQMDT covers the following steps:
1. Securing the mount to the vehicle
2. Mounting the VMX: TREQMDT MDT
3. Installing the GPS puck antenna
4. Connecting the power cable
5. (Optional) Installing the engine diagnostics cable
For installation of the cellular antenna, please follow the installation instructions contained
within the cellular antenna packaging.
VMX Installation Guide
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VMX Installation Guide
Securing the mount to the vehicle
Because securing the mount to a vehicle's dashboard is subject to many variables and because
installers are expected to have previous experience with this process, these instructions do not
include specific steps for this process. However, see the tips below for additional information.
Helpful tips
Before securing the mount to the dashboard, find the optimal spot for the
tablet, tablet dock, and mount to be positioned. The best location will be
one that does not allow the tablet to block the driver's view of the road or
interfere with the safe and standard operation of the vehicle. Keep in mind
the mount is adjustable.
To get an accurate estimation of how the tablet dock and mount will be
positioned, it might be helpful to attach the tablet dock to the mount
temporarily. If this is done, unscrew the mount and dock before installing
the mount on the dashboard for ease of installation.
Screwing the mount into the dashboard will require drilling through the
dashboard or dash plate first to establish screw-in points for the mount.
Use proper equipment, safety, and sense to avoid damaging any wiring or
equipment in and around the dashboard.
Because all vehicles differ, the screws and washers required for securing
the mount to the vehicle's dash are not included with the kit, and the
installer will need to choose screws and washers that best fit the vehicle
and mount.
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VMX Installation Guide
Mounting the VMX: TREQMDT
After the mount is secured to the vehicle, attach the VMX: TREQMDT to the mount with two screws.
Ensure the mount is angled diagonally to meet the screw-in points correctly.
Installing the GPS puck antenna
We recommend testing the VMX: TREQMDT in the service area before permanently
installing the antennas.
The optimal place to install the puck antenna is on the dash. However, it can be installed outside of
the vehicle. Follow the guidelines below for optimal installation.
Optimal GPS antenna installation environment
Install in a place where the antenna:
Has a clear view of the sky.
Is oriented horizontally.
Isn't covered by an embedded-wire glass defroster.
Will not be operating directly within 8 inches (20 cm) of a person.
Isn't covered by metal of any kind and thickness.
Isn't regularly covered with moisture.
Has a minimum 4-inch side clearance from metal objects.
Isn't located in a high vibration area.
Won't be compromised by regular operations of the vehicle.
Is accessible for maintenance and/or removal.
When screwing in both cell and GPS antennas to the back of the unit, coaxial cables
should be tightened beyond finger tight (snug).
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VMX Installation Guide
Connecting the power cable
1. Connect the power cable with the DB26 pin connector to the back of the MDT. The smaller,
white molex end of this cable will be used to fish down to the location of the fuse box. This
corresponding mate of the 3 wire power cable will plug into the power pigtail.
2. Attach the white wire to the positive terminal.
3. Attach the red wire to the battery positive terminal.
4. Attach the black wire to the battery negative or ground.
Power management information
When the ignition is on, the MDT should power on before starting the
engine.
When the ignition is off, the radio is on and the GPS is on for 1 fix of every
60 minutes.
If the battery voltage drops below ~10.9 volts at the battery (10.5 volts at
the VMX: TREQMDT), the radio and GPS are both off.
On the first power up, it is normal for the MDT to display a connection
message for the first few seconds. It will then ask for the vehicle
number.
Failure to install VMX: TREQMDTs properly can result in damage to
vehicle ECM.
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VMX Installation Guide
Engine diagnostics (optional)
1. After fishing the Pigtail cable through the truck down to the location of the ECU plug, connect it
to the engine diagnostics cable as shown below.
2. Plug the end of the Engine diagnostics cable show below into the ECU plug of the vehicle
(either a 9-pin or 6-pin). Constant power and ground will be supplied to the MDT through the
connections you make to the fuse box.
The end shown above is an additional ECU port that can be used for any other need. For
example, a mechanic can connect a secondary ECU device to this port to temporarily
diagnose the vehicle. This ensures that the MDT remains connected at all times but
doesn't "clog" the ECU port.
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