Conventional wisdom often associates GPS tracking with strictly surveillance. However, long time users of this technology will tell you that they cannot live without it. Having true live updating of a loved one’s whereabouts provides peace of mind that was unattainable not long ago. Consider a new teen driver, first-time out of state student, or an elderly parent. These are all examples where family members are in the need to know especially on today’s roads.
Driving today is much more dangerous than compared to just 20 years ago. Modern conveniences such as cell phone technology include an array of driver distractions that include text messaging, MP3 music players, telephone calls, etc. Statistics show that these distractions are costing more and more lives each year.
Even though these devices provide an indirect link to the whereabouts of the individual, the mere outreach alone can reduce the margin of safety behind the wheel. This is where real-time GPS tracking devices provide the most value.
Online Tracking And Mobile Tracking Applications
The advent of the internet and high resolution satellite imaging has provided the user fingertip access to a vehicle’s location. Online secure portals eliminate embedded software or operating system limitations. The simplicity of entering log in credentials takes you directly to the last known position whether the vehicle is parked or currently in motion. Continuous updates as fast as every few seconds provides fluent satellite map positioning. However, not all of us have the luxury to be sitting at a computer. Modern GPS tracking manufacturers also include a mobile application to work on Android, Windows, and Apple (Safari) phones and tablets providing many of the same features available at the desktop.
Proximity Alerts And Warnings Keep You Posted
Having the ability to easily log into the portal and locate the vehicle is convenient enough. However, many GPS tracking manufacturers have built in the ability to alert the user when a vehicle has entered and/or exited a location, speeding, low battery etc. Notification can be sent via text message and/or email. An example of this would be an email alert when a new teen driver arrives at school or home. These alerts provide a constant reminder and peace of mind when you need it most.
Next Generation GPS Tracking
Real-time GPS tracking devices were introduced in the mid 1990’s but required 12V vehicle power and more permanent installation. Devices today are more portable with lithium-ion battery technology but can also be wired into the vehicle. The latest enhancement incorporates the vehicle’s On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. All vehicles built after 1996 include this port and gives service centers access to the vehicle’s computer. More than 100 parameters are monitored through this port and the new OBD GPS tracking devices take advantage of some of this information. Powered by the vehicle with a simple plug anyone can install, these devices can also monitor harsh breaking, rapid acceleration, low battery, etc.
GPS tracking devices not only provide the location of the vehicle but now incorporate the tools necessary to understand driving habits and ultimately promote safety behind the wheel.
