Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for autonomous data collection from variable frequency drives (VFD) is described. The system includes at least two embedded control systems, each built on a commercial platform, with customized components in transportable cases. A computer program with multiple instantiations operates on the at least two embedded control systems to provide a client-server implementation of data collection and recording units. The units communicate by Wi-Fi autonomously when the client comes within range of the server. Units do not require any direct intervention by technicians to gather and store VFD system data. The client is a mobile unit is installed in a field truck operated by a driver without the training to operate a VFD. When the mobile unit obtains a communications link to a central receiving server, the unit uploads its data for processing in a processing system.