Tag: tolling

OmniAir Consortium®, the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles, announces the launch of the nation’s first and only certification program for multi-protocol RFID tolling transponders and readers.

The new OmniAir® Certification program offers independent, third-party testing and certification for multi-protocol RFID tolling tags and readers that support the 6C, 6B-80K, and TDM protocols. 

OmniAir Multi-Protocol Tolling Certification is designed to meet the needs of infrastructure owner-operators in the procurement and deployment of trusted equipment for electronic toll collection.  OmniAir Certified® devices are interoperable, conform to industry standards, and meet stringent performance requirements in both laboratory and field environments.

The program builds on OmniAir’s over 12 years of experience in offering certification for single-protocol 6C RFID tags and readers, as well as connected vehicle radios supporting cellular-based or C-V2X technology.

This new certification program is the result of years of collaborative effort between the nation’s tolling agencies and operators, tolling system vendors, consultants, and leading test laboratories and test system providers.  The new certification program is the logical next step of OmniAir Consortium’s work in testing for National Toll Interoperability.

“Through our new certification program, OmniAir Consortium, and our members, are paving the way for National Tolling Interoperability,” said Jason Conley, Executive Director of OmniAir Consortium. “We would like to thank our volunteer members, and the broader tolling community for collaborating in the development of this new OmniAir Multi-Protocol Tolling Certification Program.”

OmniAir Consortium ensures that tolling devices meet specific standards through its certification process. This process involves checking various aspects:

  • Protocol Conformance: Ensuring that the device follows specific communication protocols.
  • Environmental Testing: Assessing how well the device performs in different environmental conditions.
  • Minimum Performance Testing: Checking how the device performs based on specific parameters.
  • Interoperability Testing: Testing whether the device can work well with other devices.
  • Field Testing: Evaluating the device’s performance in real-world scenarios, including single and multi-protocol modes.
  • Optional Testing: Additional testing for specific scenarios.

OmniAir develops a detailed test plan that our authorized test laboratories follow. These tests are conducted using qualified test equipment at their facilities and authorized field sites. OmniAir utilizes four main test specifications that were developed within our Tolling and Emerging Payments Working Group and were vetted and approved by OmniAir’s board of Directors.

  • 800-OA-CONF-TDM – TDM Tolling Protocol Conformance
  • 801-OA- -IO6B80K – ISO 6B-80K Tolling Protocol Conformance
  • 802-OA- -ISO6C – ISO 6C Tolling Protocol Conformance
  • 850-OA-Tolling-SPD-MPT-Test Plan

Eligible applicants may apply for tolling certification testing online.  

OmniAir offers laboratory testing for RFID tolling certification programs, in partnership with DEKRA North America, at their facility in Sterling, Virginia and at multiple OmniAir Authorized Field Test Sites across the United States.

To learn more about OmniAir’s certification programs, we invite you to visit our website or directly contact Ryan Hall, Vice President of Business Development. We are more than happy to address any question or provide additional information.

About OmniAir Consortium

OmniAir Consortium is the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles. OmniAir’s membership includes public agencies, private companies, research institutions, and independent test laboratories. Learn more about OmniAir at www.omniair.org.

Share this article

OmniAir Consortium®, the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles, welcomes Orange County California’s Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) as OmniAir’s newest associate member.

TCA is a public agency responsible for planning, financing, constructing, and operating California’s largest network of toll roads. There are 51 miles of roadway within Orange County that include State Routes 73, 133, 241, and 261, which are public roads owned by Caltrans and financed with private funds.

“TCA has long been a tolling industry thought leader, with a demonstrated commitment innovation, said Jason Conley, Executive Director of OmniAir Consortium. “As the largest tolling operator in California, we welcome insights in helping to advance OmniAir® programs for tolling, road usage charge (RUC), and connected vehicles.”

The Toll Roads have been providing a choice for drivers for 20 years. Today, more than 250,000 transactions are recorded per day. As the region’s population increases and the economy grows, TCA works toward ensuring that The Toll Roads remain valuable, congestion-free alternatives to local freeways. TCA is committed to excellent customer service, improving mobility, and preserving our quality of life now and in the future.

About OmniAir Consortium

OmniAir Consortium is the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles. OmniAir’s membership includes public agencies, private companies, research institutions, and independent test laboratories. Learn more about OmniAir at www.omniair.org

About Transportation Corridor Agencies

Transportation Corridor Agencies are two joint powers authorities formed by the California legislature in 1986 to plan, finance, construct, and operate Orange County’s public toll road system comprised of the 73, 1332, 241 and 261 Toll Roads, which represent 20% of Orange County’s highway system.  TCA continues to meet the region’s growing need for congestion-free transportation alternatives. www.thetollroads.com

Share this article

Caltrans, the California Department of Transportation, has joined OmniAir Consortium. 

Caltrans manages more than 50,000 miles of California’s highway and freeway lanes, provides inter-city rail services, permits more than 400 public-use airports and special-use hospital heliports, and works with local agencies.

Caltrans carries out its mission with six primary programs: Aeronautics, Highway Transportation, Mass Transportation, Transportation Planning, Administration, and the Equipment Service Center.

Since its creation 50 years ago, Caltrans has managed one of the most complex transportation systems in the nation and helped play a vital role in creating the world’s fourth largest economy.

“We are delighted that Caltrans, one of the largest, most innovative, forward-thinking transportation organizations in the United States as our newest member,” said Jason Conley, Executive Director of OmniAir®.  “Caltrans has long been a leader in the deployment of intelligent transportation systems, and other advanced mobility programs.  We look forward to working together to advance interoperability and certification for transportation technologies.”

OmniAir offers independent, third-party testing and certification programs through a network of independent test laboratories, using qualified test equipment and validated test cases.  OmniAir currently offers certification for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technologies and RFID tolling tags and readers.   OmniAir Working Groups are developing new certification solutions to include Road Usage Charge (RUC), V2X safety applications, and Aftermarket Safety Devices (ASD).

OmniAir and its members from across industry, government, and academia are working collaboratively towards smarter and more connected transportation systems, paving the way for a safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible future.  For more information about membership opportunities, please contact Ryan Hall, Vice President of Business Development, or join online.

About OmniAir Consortium

OmniAir Consortium is the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles. OmniAir’s membership includes public agencies, private companies, research institutions, and independent test laboratories. Learn more about OmniAir at www.omniair.org

Share this article

OmniAir Consortium®, the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles, declares 2024 as the “Year of Interoperable Connectivity.”

With the accelerating pace of V2X deployments in the United States and around the world, there is a growing push to ensure the availability of interoperable connected mobility technologies.  OmniAir is making helping industry and government achieve interoperable connectivity. 

In October, the U.S. Department of Transportation published its draft “Plan to Accelerate V2X Deployment.”  The plan sets ambitious goals for deploying interoperable connected V2X connectivity between devices and SCMS providers using the dedicated 5.9 GHz Spectrum. 

OmniAir’s testing and certification programs are designed to help vendors meet these requirements through independent testing and certification, Plugfests, virtual testing events, and technical capacity-building activities.

“With deployments of C-V2X and connected mobility accelerating globally, ensuring interoperability is more important than ever,” said Jason Conley, Executive Director of OmniAir Consortium. “OmniAir stands ready to support through our certification programs.”

OmniAir’s commitment to promoting interoperability takes center stage with several key initiatives slated for the year:

  1. C-V2X RSU & OBU Certification: OmniAir now provides the industry’s sole full-stack independent, third-party testing and certification program for C-V2X On-Board Units (OBUs) and Roadside Units (RSUs). Certification testing is conveniently accessible at a network of global test laboratories and field test facilities.
  2. C-V2X Module Certification: In December, OmniAir launched its certification program for C-V2X modules encompassing pure radio and “functional” C-V2X modules. This paves the way for enhanced compatibility and connectivity.
  3. Multi-Protocol RFID Tolling Tag and Reader Certification: Starting in February, applications will be accepted to certify multi-protocol RFID tolling tags and readers. This aligns with OmniAir’s commitment to fostering national toll interoperability.
  4. SCMS Interoperability: March marks the commencement of an optional certification for 1609.2.1 compliance, offering a pathway to achieving SCMS interoperability. This builds on the success of OmniAir’s virtual testing events and Plugfest testing in 2023.
  5. Plugfest Testing Events: In May, OmniAir invites the global V2X industry to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for the “OmniAir Plugfest at Mcity, hosted by UMTRI.” This week-long testing event will bring together industry stakeholders for interoperability and conformance testing. In October, a second Plugfest will be hosted outside of the United States to cater to the global marketplace.
  6. New Working Groups: OmniAir introduces working groups focusing on Aftermarket Safety devices, Road Usage Charge (RUC), and V2X Safety Applications. These groups will develop test plans and procedures to support the certification needs of transportation technologies globally.
  7. Knowledge Sharing and Learning Sessions: Throughout the year, OmniAir will host webinars, workshops, and technical learning sessions, providing insights into emerging technologies, evolving standards, and the latest in test tools and deployment guidance.

If you’re passionate about shaping the future of connected mobility and ensuring interoperability, we invite you to join OmniAir Consortium.

Participate in our working groups, attend our Plugfests, and be at the forefront of the future of interoperable connectivity in 2024!

Join OmniAir today and get involved! 

About OmniAir Consortium: OmniAir Consortium is the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles. OmniAir’s membership includes public agencies, public companies, research institutions, and independent test laboratories. Learn more about OmniAir at www.omniair.org

Share this article

OmniAir Consortium® has issued a Call for Nominations for candidates interested in serving on the organization’s Board of Directors.
 
There are currently three open positions for Directors.  In addition, OmniAir is accepting nominations for Officer positions, including Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.
 
OmniAir® seeks exceptionally qualified candidates who possess the requisite judgment, experience, and expertise to serve in this leadership capacity. Candidates must be willing and able to dedicate the necessary time and resources to help OmniAir advance its mission to promote certification and interoperability for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles.
 
OmniAir Consortium is a global organization, representing a broad cross-section of transportation technology industries. OmniAir offers independent, third-party testing and certification through a network of accredited test laboratories, using qualified test systems, and validated test cases. OmniAir Certification provides assurance to deployers that devices conform to industry standards and meet interoperability and security requirements.
 
The Board of Directors meets in person 4 times per year (virtual available) and helps to set the strategic direction for the organization.  Committees of the Board include Executive, Finance, Meetings, Bylaws, and Marketing.  OmniAir also operates Working Groups and Sub-Working Groups on topics related to tolling, cybersecurity, Road Usage Charge, and connected vehicle hardware and applications. 
 
Elections will take place at the Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors on December 13, in New York City. Directors serve for a term of three years and are eligible for reelection.
 
Candidates for the OmniAir Consortium Board must be the “primary representative” of an Associate or Executive Member in good standing. For Associate level members interested in serving on the Board, that member must elevate their membership to “Executive” or “OmniAir Sustaining Partner” before its representative can assume a Directorship or Officer position.
 
Candidates are requested to submit a letter of interest, and a copy of their resume and or biography to the Nominating Committee of the Board, via the Executive Director no later than 5:00 PM Eastern on Wednesday, November 15.
 
About OmniAir Consortium: OmniAir Consortium is the leading industry association promoting interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles. OmniAir’s membership includes public agencies, private companies, research institutions, and independent test laboratories. Learn more about OmniAir at www.omniair.org.
 

Share this article