Vehicle Tracking Improves Society

Vehicle Tracking is the science of determining the location of a vehicle or asset with a high degree of accuracy through advanced technological means. Real-time vehicle tracking goes a step further by transmitting the vehicle location information as soon as it is obtained.

This science requires technology to make it happen. The electronic device that is installed in the vehicle or asset is comprised of a GPS receiver, wireless RF modem, a controller board, and in some cases a battery. While the GPS receiver is constantly logging location information, the controller board selects the location information that corresponds to specific events. For instance, when a vehicle is started, the device detects this change of ignition status and captures the GPS location information at that very moment.

The device typically sends its information over the GSM wireless network. The data goes through the internet to the database servers. Here, the data is compiled and stored until queried by the end-user. The end-user accesses the location data either through a client-based software program or, more likely, a website.

Since the data provided by the vehicle tracking device includes more information than just location, its usefulness is greatly enhanced. All stops made by the vehicle can be positively identified, showing the address, and time and duration of the stop. Excessive idling events can be identified and measured. The velocity, a component of the data string sent by the tracking device, measures the speed in KPH or MPH and enables it to be easily displayed.

Many other features can be offered through web-based programming enhancements. They range from display of the vehicle’s historical detail or “breadcrumb trail” to Geofence history. A Geofence is a virtual boundary around a geographic area. Once defined, a vehicle can be identified when it enters or exits a Geofence. This helps the end-user keep their vehicles out of unauthorized areas or informs them when the vehicle arrives at a particular location. Another feature that utilizes both the technology of the vehicle tracking device and the power of the website is the measurement of excessive idling. Knowing the duration of an excessive idle event can help the end-user manage their fleet and personnel more efficiently.

The combination of technological elements that make a real-time vehicle tracking system possible, serves to enhance business and personal productivity. The addition of its “real-time” component increases the usefulness of the information. The end-user will be able to better manage their fleet vehicles, cut costs of operating it and the people associated with it, as well as protect the environment through less waste. Real-time vehicle tracking is a perfect example of the marriage of technologies for the betterment of society.