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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GPS
TRACKER
GPS Tracking
is evolving at a blistering pace, and as the technology
improves more and more applications begin to make good
economic sense. But more choices can also mean more
confusion. So, how do you choose the right device for
your needs? Here are a few questions that will help you
find the right one for your application.
Battery
Operated or Permanent Connection?
Battery operated units are great when ease of
installation and/or portability is a necessity. These
units can be installed in as little as 30 seconds, can
be moved from vehicle to vehicle with ease, and come in
all sizes and capabilities.
One important limitation of battery operated devices is
the inevitable relationship between device size
and battery life. Our ST Personal unit is about the
size of an average cell phone and will provide about
one full day of reliable real time tracking (the battery
can last much longer if the device in not in constant
motion since it powers down when idle). Anything
smaller is most likely not going to give enough battery
life to have any practical use. Of course, this
question of battery life can be solved by selecting a
unit that is designed to be permanently connected to a
vehicle battery.
What Kind of Features do I Need?
The complexity and cost of a GPS tracking unit can vary
greatly depending upon its features. Weather
resistance, reporting frequency, real time tracking
capability, and unit size are a just a few of the key
features that will determine which device is best for
you and how much it will cost. GPS tracking devices are
more affordable than ever, making them a valuable tool
for individuals and small businesses.
Do I need
to Pay a Subscription?
The feature that will determine whether or not
you need to pay a subscription is the ability to deliver
a live, real time tracking feed. In order to send the
tracking information back to your computer in real
time, the device needs to be equipped a wireless service
subscription. Most devices will use one of the readily
available cellular networks, like AT&T or TMobile in the
USA, or a more expensive satellite service may be used
when cellular coverage is not available. In either case
the tracking service provider will need to pass along
this subscription cost to you. A good GPS tracking
supplier will have alternatives available for you if you
do not need your tracking data in real time, or only
want the security of being able to locate your vehicle
remotely on an infrequent basis.
Will it Work
Anytime, Anywhere?
Regardless of what you may have seen in the
movies or on the cop shows, the real answer to this
question is no. There are several devices that do a
select group of things well, but there is still no one
perfect device that does it all. Each unit has its
strengths and weaknesses, so it is important that you
speak with a reputable company with knowledgeable sales
representatives that can make sure that the unit you
select is well matched to your goals.
How do I
Choose My GPS Tracking Supplier?
If you have ever tried to find a GPS tracking company by
doing a web search, you were no doubt overwhelmed by
the endless list of companies claiming to offer
services. We get phone calls all the time from
individuals who bought something over the internet only
to find out after the fact that they could not use the
device because it did not work in their application, or
there were hidden costs that made the service
unaffordable.
Be sure to call any supplier you are considering and ask
them the questions above. A reputable dealer will have
a large selection of options available and should be
able to help you choose the best device for your
application. If you cannot talk to a person or do not
find them to be knowledgeable in their craft, then it
will be best if you move along down the list of
prospective suppliers.
My number is
407-948 5338. Bob Brown
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