SunPass

One spring, South Florida's radio station Majic 102.7 asked listeners to rank the technology they couldn't live without. The "Question of the Day" segment has become the sounding board for listeners of the "Rick & Donna in the Morning" show and visitors to the station's website, www.majic1027.com. Many responses were what you would expect of this techno generation — cell phones with cameras (26%), TiVo (12%) and GPS (10%). However, there was one huge surprise. The overwhelming responses that day regarding the technology we can't live without was SunPass with 49 percent of the vote!

Why do Floridians love their SunPass? Read on.

What is SunPass?

A SunPass is an electronic gizmo (transponder) that attaches to your windshield, allowing you to drive through designated SunPass, E-Pass and O-Pass lanes. The tolls are automatically deducted from a prepaid account.

Also, now visitors to Orlando International Airport can pay for their airport parking with SunPass.

How does SunPass work?

There is no need to have exact change or wait for the tollbooth operator to give you change. SunPass allows you to cruise by at speeds of up to 25 m.p.h. while others wait in the cash lanes.

Once attached to your windshield, the transponder transmits a radio signal to sensors mounted on the SunPass toll lanes themselves. Instantly, the transponder relays the proper toll amount and deducts it from your prepaid account.

The original transponder has three lights: red, yellow and green. It also has an audio buzzer. Specific combinations of the lights and audio let you know when a toll is paid, when you have a low balance or when the transponder needs a new battery.

The newest transponder, the SunPass Mini, does not use batteries and does not have lights or emit beeping sounds. About the size of a credit card and about as thin, this transponder sticks to your windshield and cannot be moved from one vehicle to another.

How do I get a SunPass?

You can purchase a SunPass for $25.00 (plus tax) online and at any of these locations — CVS Pharmacies, Publix Supermarkets, Navarro, Sedano's, gas stations, gift shops and Turnpike service plazas.

The SunPass Mini is available for $4.99 at the same locations and once activated, the $4.99 will be credited to your account. That makes the SunPass Mini free!

Now what do I do?

You are required to set up a SunPass or SunPass Mini account with a minimum starting balance of $10.00.

To set up an account:

• Call 1-888-TOLL-FLA (1-888-865-5352) OR
• Download and print an application
• Mail application and a check (minimum of $10.00) made payable to FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION to: SunPass Prepaid Toll Program, P.O. BOX 880029, Boca Raton, Florida 33488-0029. OR
• Fax application with credit card information to 1-888-265-1725.

It's that easy! Now you see why Floridians love their SunPass. I should know, I have one... and I love it too!