Passive vs. Real Time Tracking Proves To Be No Contest
As GPS surveillance technology becomes more pervasive and less expensive, increased numbers of businesses, law enforcement groups and individual consumers are finding it a convenient way to track major objects and assets- namely vehicles. And with the glitzy assortment of high-tech vehicle tracking devices adorning the shelves of electronic and automotive retailers, choosing the right system can be as complicated as choosing the vehicle itself.
GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking devices come in two different types, passive and active. The latter is also known as “real time”.
Passive units monitor locations and movements of vehicles and store positioning data in their internal memory. This data can then be downloaded to a computer for viewing at a later time. Active devices combine two technologies in a single unit: GPS for positioning and cellular data technology for the transmission of this data, which allows the user to watch the movements of a vehicle in “real time”. It must be noted, however, that the passive GPS unit offers second-by-second accountability which generates more data, whereas typical active GPS systems log data in one minute to fifteen minute intervals of individual GPS samplings. Active GPS trackers also come with a monthly fee/obligation, while the purchase of a passive GPS tracker is a one time cost.
CONVENIENCE, COST EFFECTIVENESS, ACCESSIBILITY, PORTABILITY
Such are among the factors that should be considered before deciding upon a passive or real time GPS tracking system.
For convenience, cost effectiveness and ease of installation, passive units generally tend to be more preferable. One example is the Tracking Key that logs data second-by-second and operates exclusively on AAA batteries.
Passive devices are compactly designed to fit in small containers such as purses and backpacks and can be mounted just about anywhere in or on a vehicle. Passive devices are more frequently used by average persons such as parents interested in their teen’s driving habits. Law enforcement agencies often rely on passive GPS tracking to assist in criminal investigations. Even advocates of the great outdoors are enlisting the aid of passive tracking devices in their wilderness treks! Priced at roughly $200, the Tracking Key and its counterparts are undeniably the most economical in the line of GPS tracking products.
Another important consideration when choosing a type of tracking system is volume. Certain fleet operators are more likely to use real time tracking systems to assist them with routing, dispatching and various other functions, including the prevention of theft and retrieval of stolen vehicles. Because real time systems allow for remote access of information, employers can simultaneously monitor the speed and location of large groups of vehicles which can greatly improve the efficiency of their business and the quality of customer service.
Yet, real time tracking is not necessarily relegated to mega-transportation companies or military divisions. Mom and Dad may very well want to track Samantha’s whereabouts in real time to make sure she’s headed for the library, and larger, urban area police forces might require more detailed tracking equipment for heavier crime fighting.
And the winner is….
Ultimately, the choice between active and passive tracking devices comes down to a basic matter of need and personal preference. Both types share the same application and demographics, and both serve the same fundamental purpose which is to track vehicles and other large assets. From a logical standpoint, real time tracking is more useful for obtaining detailed and immediate information about large numbers of vehicles or objects that are being tracked. For cost saving and installation convenience, the passive unit can be deemed just as effective in producing quality results.
In early 2009, LandAirSea Systems will launch three new products—one passive and two real time vehicle tracking devices.
For detailed information on the passive GPS Tracking Key and 3100 Unit and the “real time” 8100 Unit, visit www.landairsea.com
Tags: GPS Tracking, Passive, Real Time
No related posts.
