Need to track valuable items or loved ones? GPS satellite trackers are the answer. These devices give you real time location data via GPS satellite signals so you always know where your important stuff or people are. In this post we’ll look at the best GPS satellite trackers, their features and how GPS satellite trackers can give you more control and peace of mind. With a GPS satellite tracker you can have more control over your assets and keep them safe.
Summary
- Real time tracking, movement notifications and geofencing for security and asset management.
- Battery life and power management is key for continuous GPS tracker operation.
- Global coverage and multiple subscription plans so you can choose the solution that fits your tracking needs.
Real Time Tracking
Real time tracking is what GPS satellite trackers are all about, allowing you to see exactly where your assets are at any given time with spot trace accuracy. This gives you peace of mind and lets you respond quickly in an emergency. The Globalstar satellite network for example is great for real time tracking and notifications, perfect for remote IoT applications.
API integration takes tracking to the next level by allowing data to flow seamlessly between the GPS device and other applications, so you can do things like payment processing and real time pinpoint tracking. Users feel safer knowing they can track loved ones or valuable assets in real time, especially in an emergency.
Movement Notifications
Movement notifications are for anyone who is concerned with security and tracking. These can be sent instantly via text or email when the tracking device detects movement. This instant alert system lets you respond quickly to potential threats or unexpected movement, another layer of security.
You can receive specific alerts under various conditions, such as when a vehicle moves while parked or equipment leaves a job site. These alerts are key to preventing theft and keeping assets where they should be. Geofencing for example can trigger notifications if equipment crosses a boundary, for theft prevention and asset management.
Being able to navigate through these alerts and messages means you’re always in control and informed of your assets location. Whether it’s a sudden movement in the middle of the night or a scheduled check in, movement notifications keep you up to date and add to the overall security framework.
Geofencing
Geofencing takes GPS satellite tracking to the next level by allowing you to create virtual boundaries around specific areas. When a tracked asset enters or exits these zones the system will trigger an alert with real time location data. This is perfect for businesses that need to monitor their assets across multiple locations.
Geofences can be set up for different scenarios like work sites, customer sites or residential areas. This involves mapping out the area and defining the rules for notifications and actions.
This is especially useful for security and keeping valuable assets in safe zones.
Battery Life and Power Management
Battery life is key when choosing a GPS satellite tracker. Battery life varies greatly depending on the device. Hardware based trackers have longer battery life than software based solutions. High quality GPS tracking devices have energy efficient components so you don’t need to recharge as often.
Data transmission frequency impacts battery management, more frequent updates means quicker power drain. Environmental conditions like high temperatures and humidity can also affect battery capacity. So choosing GPS trackers with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries which have high energy density and low self discharge rates is recommended.
Power management features like power saving modes and low battery alerts can extend device battery life. Reducing screen brightness and using high quality batteries and chargers also helps. These will keep your GPS tracker running for longer even in harsh conditions.
Global Coverage
Advanced GPS satellite trackers have global coverage, they work in areas with no cellular service like oceans and remote wilderness. In these areas satellite trackers will continue to track as long as they have a clear view of the sky.
Global GPS trackers have multi network capabilities to connect to the strongest network in different countries so you can track worldwide. This is perfect for international travelers and businesses operating in multiple regions. Solar powered GPS trackers which use sunlight to recharge are also great for long term use in remote areas.
Whether you’re trekking through South America or managing assets miles offshore, GPS satellite trackers give you coverage and peace of mind so you can track your assets anywhere on earth.
Plans
Plans are important for GPS satellite trackers. Companies like SPOT offer 12 month contract plan and a monthly Flex plan. All plans auto renew at the end of the term so no manual intervention is required.
Contract plans offer monthly payments or upfront annual payment and you get all your messages in advance. For seasonal users Flex plans require only 1 month commitment. But there’s an activation fee of $29.95 for all plans and unused messages from monthly plans do not roll over.
Changing plans can incur extra charges so choose the plan that’s right for you.
Device Compatibility
Device compatibility is key to making sure GPS satellite trackers work with your existing equipment and apps. Some GPS tracking devices only work with specific apps and require custom software for integration. This compatibility is important for tracking and to access and interpret tracking data.
Mobile apps can work with different GPS devices but each has its own integration requirements. Make sure your chosen GPS tracker is compatible with your smartphone or other devices for reliable tracking.
Alarms and Notifications
Alarms and notifications are part of GPS satellite trackers. Setting immediate notifications for critical events means you can respond to potential security threats in time. For example the device can send an alert if it’s powered off so you’ll know the status of your asset.
Daily status messages will confirm the location of your tracked assets so you’ll know they’re good. Movement alarms can be set to notify you in real time or daily summary so you’ll have situational awareness. SMS alarms for events like mortality and geo-fencing will give you extra security and awareness.
Modes
Special modes like Dock Mode are for specific tracking needs like tracking vessels mostly on water. Dock Mode changes the tracking logic to track movement based on distance traveled not just motion so it’s perfect for water based assets.
To use Dock Mode the tracking device must first be set to Track Mode. In Dock Mode the device will go to standby when multiple GPS points are detected close together and will resume tracking only after 200 meters of movement is detected. This will save battery life and reduce unnecessary power consumption.
Use
GPS satellite trackers are used across many industries. In logistics they track cargo ships and optimize delivery routes. In agriculture they track crop health and manage field operations. Mining uses GPS to track equipment and move materials to increase productivity.
Utility companies use GPS for infrastructure management so they can respond faster to outages. In military they use GPS for navigation and tracking of personnel and vehicles. Personal GPS tracking devices are useful for real time tracking of journeys so users can be safer.
Knowing what you want to use the GPS tracker for is key to choosing the right device. Whether you need real time or passive tracking will affect your decision. Geofencing capabilities will increase productivity by giving you insight into asset movement relative to defined areas.
Tech Specs
The technical specs of GPS devices are important to determine if it’s suitable for your application. Advanced techniques like dual frequency gps receiver and augmentation systems can make GPS devices to have positioning accuracy of few centimeters. Civilian GPS signals have a global average user range error of less than 2.0 meters and often performs better than that.
Satellite geometry and atmospheric conditions affect GPS positioning accuracy. GPS speed measurement accuracy is also affected by these and the receiver design. Positioning accuracy is critical for applications that requires precise location data.
Buying Options
Before buying a GPS tracker, consider customer support and warranty as these can impact the user experience. Battery life is also important, how often will you need to recharge the device. Make sure it’s compatible with local networks and frequency bands.
Know all the costs including hidden fees and subscription charges so you can understand the total cost. Evaluate the ease of installation and user interface so the GPS tracker is within your technical comfort zone. Some GPS trackers can store data offline so you can still track history even if internet connection is lost.
Customer Testimonials
Real life customer testimonials will give you an idea of the benefits and peace of mind that GPS satellite trackers can give. One customer shared how his SPOT device sent an SOS signal during an emergency in a deep canyon and was rescued by a helicopter. Another customer said the help button on his SPOT device was a lifeline when he got injured while solo hiking.
Users use personal GPS tracking devices for solo hiking, to give peace of mind to their loved ones during remote trips. Sending daily ‘I’m OK’ messages with their SPOT tracker keeps them connected with their family while enjoying wilderness solitude.
These stories shows the peace of mind and safety that GPS satellite trackers can give.
Conclusion
In summary, GPS satellite trackers have many features that can increase security, safety and efficiency in various applications. From real time tracking and movement notifications to geofencing and global coverage, these devices are must have for modern asset management. Know the technical specs, subscription plans and compatibility of these trackers so you can choose the right device for you.
Buying a GPS satellite tracker will give you peace of mind whether you’re tracking valuable assets or loved ones. As technology gets better, these devices will only get more awesome.
FAQs
Q. Is GPS satellite free?
A. Yes, GPS satellite data is free for all users as U.S. law requires civilian GPS service to be free of direct user fees. That means anyone with a GPS receiver can use the service for free.
Q. Is there a free GPS tracker?
A. Yes, the Samsung SmartThings Tracker is a GPS device with no monthly fees so you can track your luggage and valuables in real-time through the mobile app. This is a cost effective way to keep tabs on your belongings.
Q. What is real time tracking and why is it important?
A. Real-time tracking is important because it allows precise location monitoring, quick response during emergencies and overall security. This gives you reassurance and proactive resource management.
Q. How do movement notifications increase security?
A. Movement notifications increase security by sending real time alerts through text or email when motion is detected so you can respond quickly to potential threats. This is proactive way to protect your property.
Q. What is geofencing and how does it work?
A. Geofencing is the creation of virtual boundaries around specific areas, which triggers alerts when a tracked asset enters or exits those zones, so you can get real time location information. This technology increases asset management and location based services.
