| Vehicle tracking devices utilize GPS, global | | | | website. Special computer software is loaded onto |
| positioning system, to electronically track the | | | | the computer that will be used to access the |
| location of a vehicle. GPS satellites transmit signal | | | | information. When connected to the internet, you |
| information to earth. GPS receivers pick up and | | | | can view real-time information on the location, |
| store this information. The receivers work best | | | | speed and direction of travel of a vehicle. Before |
| with an unobstructed view of the sky so they | | | | buying a real time tracking device, make sure that |
| are best used outdoors and not in highly forested | | | | your computer systems are compatible to the |
| areas or near tall buildings. GPS systems use an | | | | requirements of the tracking software. |
| accurate time reference, which is provided by an | | | | Vehicle tracking devices that use real-time |
| atomic clock on board the satellite. | | | | technology require a monthly subscription to a |
| Vehicle tracking devices have many uses. They | | | | GPS service. This price varies from company to |
| are often used by companies to keep track of | | | | company but is generally under $20 per month. |
| business mileage and job performance. As an | | | | The subscription is typically purchased along with |
| anti-theft device, vehicle trackers are used to | | | | the tracking device. |
| enable police to locate a stolen vehicle quickly and | | | | Passive GPS tracking system isn't as sophisticated |
| easily. Many auto insurance companies offer a | | | | as real-time system, but is less expensive. The |
| special discount to those who have a tracking | | | | tracking device is placed inside a vehicle and |
| device installed in their vehicles. They are also | | | | information stored can be easily downloaded to |
| useful for navigation. A vehicle tracker can be | | | | your computer at a later time. This allows you to |
| hooked up to an on-board laptop computer to | | | | view where the vehicle has been, often recorded |
| provide the driver with location and direction of | | | | at 15-minute intervals. |
| travel. Vehicle tracking devices can also be used | | | | Many new companies are springing up all the time, |
| to keep track of family members, especially | | | | so be sure to buy your vehicle tracking device |
| teenagers who are only allowed minimal vehicle | | | | from a reputable company. You can easily locate |
| access. Certain types of GPS systems are linked | | | | a good dealer on the internet. There are some |
| to special services such calling 911 in emergency | | | | well-known companies that are adept at providing |
| situations and reporting your location so that | | | | high-quality tracking service. If you are not |
| emergency responders can find you. | | | | computer savvy most companies offer to help |
| There are 2 types of vehicle tracking devices: | | | | you get started and can assist on an ongoing |
| real-time and passive. The real time tracking | | | | basis if problems occur. |
| system allows you to locate a vehicle live on the | | | | |