Cover Your Assets And Track Them Too

Global Positioning System technology presents a neat, eminently deployable and potentially powerful option, but knowing when it makes sense and understanding how to build out a solution can be key to solution providers' success.

Depending on how it's deployed, GPS is often more cost-effective than RFID, with less complexity. But there are some gaps in coverage unique to GPS.

To examine the ins and outs of GPS, the CRN Test Center worked with BrickHouse Security, a New York solution provider, to get insight into the best practices for successfully deploying a GPS solution. We also sent a GPS tracking solution on a test run—taking a palm-size tracking unit on a trip from New York to California, and then FedExing it back home to watch its progress.

As with most solutions, determining the customer's needs is the primary step. For businesses that are only looking to keep high-value inventory within a confined area, RFID will probably suffice. But because RFID is a passive technology, it can't be located on a minute-by-minute basis if moving. Here, GPS may fit the bill.

A GPS consists of two parts—the transceiver that receives signals from satellites and the back end (usually software-based), which processes the acquired data into discernible information. Even here, solutions can vary in the level of detail and urgency with which information is logged. This is by no means a one-size-fits-all solution; there are various GPS devices and each one serves a purpose.

Outside of navigation, there are four major uses of GPS: emergency location, data logging, asset management and tracking. Emergency locators are for search-and-rescue efforts; they send out a distress signal that allows the devices and their holders to be located. They've historically been used for sailors lost at sea or finding downed planes, but an increasing number of hikers, mountain climbers and the like also are using them.

If instantaneous tracking is not a necessity, GPS data logging can be a relatively inexpensive solution that stores location data into internal memory and can later be attached to a computer via a USB port or wireless connection. Then, using software, location data can be plotted on a map showing exactly where the unit has been, at what speed it was moving and the length (with location) of stops. With a plug-in, the data can even be superimposed onto a satellite image. The advantage to data logging is that users get a detailed report at a low cost with no monthly fees. Business uses include tracking a company car, monitoring expensive equipment on the road or tracking expensive property.

For instantaneous tracking, several decisions need to be made. Although the general functionality of the transceivers is the same, there are many different specifications to be considered. One would be battery life. Current devices have battery lives ranging from six hours to 30 days. If a unit will be installed in a vehicle, another option is to permanently hardwire the transceiver into the electrical system, which enables near-realtime transmission (every 5 to 10 seconds) because they don't need to conserve battery power.

Next: AGPS