Vehicle Class Codes
Class codes can be assigned in the vehicle records (MVM), allowing vehicles to be grouped by class. The class code file is used by the entire system and is not facility specific.
Adding a Vehicle Class Code
To add a class code record, do the following:
- Select Master > Vehicle > Class Codes from the RTA main menu (MVC).
- Enter a class code and choose Add. The class code is a text field allowing up to 15 characters.
- At the prompt, answer No if you wish to create a new class code from scratch. Answer yes to use another class code as a template for the new one.
- Enter the class code information.
- Save the record.
Class Code Record Field Descriptions: Main Window
- Description: Enter up to 40 characters to describe the class.
- Max units: Enter the maximum units (i.e., miles, hours, kilometers) allowed when updating meter readings for vehicles of this class OR leave this field blank to use the default maximum value set in the Fueling Parameters (SSM, Fuel Parameters tab , switch 27). If a new meter reading exceeds the previous meter reading by more than the value indicated here, you'll be prompted to verify the entry. Refer to "Meter Verification Prompts" for more information.
Class Code Record: Description Tab
The 22 field items in this tab define the mechanical field labels (MVM, Class Info Tab) used when a vehicle is assigned to this class (MVM, Main Window). This allows you to customize the information pertinent and unique to a specific class of vehicles. For example, you may want to track the Trans. Serial # for VANS and PASSENGER CARS, but tracking that data would not be applicable for TRAILERS or GENERATORS; therefore, a different set of field labels could be defined for those classes.
Also, since the vehicle file can track other types of units such as forklifts, mowers, and buildings, setting up unique descriptions here makes it possible record and track data specific to that particular class of "vehicle." For example, a building class code could have description labels such as No. of rooms, Room dimensions, Carpet color, Paint brand, and Paint color rather than Trans. make or Trans. model.
NOTE: All the field labels can be alphanumeric. However, column 1, line 11 in the vehicle record (MVM) can store a numeric-only data value. For example, the label for column 1, line 11 can be Amps, Seating Capac., or No. of Rooms since the data values will be numeric. The label should not be Engine Model or Paint Color as these would require alphanumeric data values. Refer to "Text Fields Vs. Numeric Fields" for more information if needed. Restricting Description Fields
Now that you have defined the fields that you want to track for a class of vehicles, you can further control the data that input into those description fields. Simply check the box labeled "LIST". This will enable the list button to the left of the checkbox. Click the list button. Here, you can specify all of the valid options for the field. When users edit vehicles, they will only be able to choose from this list of choices, since the field is now restricted.
Class Code Record: Rates Tab
The two rates defined here are used with the Vehicle Wash add-on option (VWx); enter the wash rate(s) or leave these fields blank if this option is not in use. The Vehicle Wash module provides a quick and easy way to account for the cost of vehicle washes and miscellaneous costs without having to create or post to work orders. Contact RTA's sales department for more information about the Vehicle Wash option.
Class Code Record: Vehicle Replacement Tab
This table allows you to define replacement schedules for each model year of vehicle within this class. This will define the default replacement schedule for all vehicles matching the model year and classification. Individual vehicles may deviate from the default by editing them in the Vehicle Master Screen replacement tab.
- Projected year: The year that the vehicle will need to be replaced.
- Projected life meter: The number of units (miles/kilometers/hours) when the vehicle will need to be replaced.
- Projected resale value: Estimated resale or trade-in value of the vehicle.
- Purchase price: Estimated purchase price of the new vehicle.
- Projected inflation: Inflation rate to apply to the replacement cost.
- Upfitting: Multiple upfitting charges can be estimated. List all add-on equipment necessary when a new vehicle is placed in service. List each item and it's cost.
Three reports are available to assist in budgeting and planning for vehicle replacement:
- Replacement Year Projection (RVY)
- Replacement Cost Projection (RVR)
- Replacements Due (RVU)
Changing a Vehicle Class Code
To change a class code record, do the following:
- Select Master > Vehicle > Class Codes from the RTA main menu (MVC).
- Enter a class code or press F1 to select a class code from the lookup list.
- Change the class code description as needed.
- Choose OK to save the record.
Deleting a Vehicle Class Code
To delete a class code record, do the following:
- Select Master > Vehicle > Class Codes from the RTA main menu (MVC).
- Enter a class code or press F1 to select a class code from the lookup list.
- Choose Delete.
- Choose Yes to confirm the deletion.
NOTE: A Class Code cannot be deleted while vehicles are assigned to it. You must modify the vehicle records first, then delete the class code after all vehicles are unassigned.