The GPS tracking industry had an exciting 1st quarter of 2013! The pace at which major events and breakthroughs are occurring really is unprecedented. The entire GPS ecosystem is undergoing an important face-lift, new nano-satellite technology is front-and-center; GPS tracking continues to protect our roads, keep loved ones safe and secure, catch criminals, monitor offenders, and more. GPS really is ubiquitous, and is becoming more so every day. This article is going to touch on wireless rechargeable GPS tracking devices, and how some of these recent and upcoming developments can & will affect their performance in the field.
Historically, wireless GPS tracking devices have presented challenges that are unique to their €wireless€ nature. Obviously, as far as wireless devices are concerned, small is great, but it also has its disadvantages as well. Battery life has been, and still is, the most important variable to consider when discussing small, wireless GPS tracking devices. The smaller the device, the smaller the battery, which subsequently yields fewer hours of continuous tracking on a single charge. To conserve battery life, most tracking providers incorporate a €hibernation mode€ into the programming of their wireless devices. This ensures that when a device remains stationary, it will shut down the majority of its systems and functionality. When the device detects motion, it then restores itself to full operation. Motion-activation has been an invaluable tool in wireless tracking applications and, as gyroscopes, battery chemistries, and programming scripts improve, will only serve to further enhance performance in the field.
Wireless GPS tracking devices also enjoy a distinct advantage when standing shoulder-to-shoulder with their hardwired counterparts. They can actually serve as 2 devices in 1.
In many scenarios, wireless devices are used to track individual people. Some examples are security guard personnel, bodyguards, law enforcement officers, fire and rescue personnel, children, teens, elderly family members, etc.
Depending on its use, the smaller internal battery of a wireless tracking device should more than suffice in monitoring a security guard over the course of a single shift, or to track a child as they play in the park or travel on a school field-trip. The device would then simply require an overnight recharge in preparation for the next day.
By adding a few accessories to a wireless GPS tracker, predominantly a larger extended battery pack and magnetic mount enclosure, you can effectively transform the device into a discreet covert vehicle tracker with a very small form-factor.
Wireless GPS tracking technology has come a long way. 10 years ago, the devices were much larger and the technology was far less reliable than today. It seems like, as each new day unfolds, devices and battery technologies are getting both smaller and more cutting-edge. I’m sure there will be more news and breakthroughs regarding wireless GPS micro and nano-technology very soon. Keep your eyes out!