Technology
Technology
Tracking systems are one of the latest developments in vehicle/asset security and are increasingly being adopted as a cost effective means of countering criminal activity. How does it work? - Most tracking systems use two out of three different technologies – satellite signals (GPS), mobile phone signals (GSM) and Radio Frequency ID (RFiD). Acutrac uses all three. Here’s why;
GPS tracking has fantastic location accuracy but depends on unobstructed signals and with many stolen items such as motorcycles being hidden away in a remote lock-up or container, this can sometimes block the signal.
GSM signals can allow location even if the asset is in a van or a building but accuracy depends on the proximity of nearby phone masts so only a general location can be determined. In this instance, RFiD technology is needed to get a really accurate location. RFiD basically comprises a small transmitter in the tracking system and use of a hand held scanner in the designated GSM area (or cell as they are known) to exactly pinpoint the vehicle/asset.
Activation
Actual tracking of the vehicle/asset can be activated in a number of ways – whilst some systems rely on the owner notifying the system supplier if their vehicle/asset is missing, Acutrac offers far more. Acutrac can be activated by a call to the monitoring centre, a simple text message from your mobile phone or can be set to activate if the vehicle/asset is moved or interfered with. Acutrac can also be set to activate if the vehicle/asset moves outside any pre-determined boundary (known as a geo-fence - a "Geographical Fence") such as your property. Once triggered, users can monitor the vehicle/asset themselves or contact the monitoring centre and then the Police can be called in.
It is clear that by integrating all these technologies and features, Acutrac can be really effective in locating a vehicle/asset with the added opportunity for the Police to catch criminals in the act. It’s this aspect that has really established tracking systems as a successful product as in some cases, location of a stolen vehicle has led Police to the hiding place for many other stolen vehicles and subsequent prosecution of the criminals.
The Fun Factor!
But its not just security where Acutrac excels. As well as being able to track your vehicle in the event of theft, you can also track yourself for example on a track day or whilst touring and record your speed and recent positions on your own unique web-based mapping system. You also have the facility to track your own mobile phones and any other GSM assets on the same screen. (GSM accuracy applies here)
