Tracking devices are used to monitor the position of a subject.
They are commonly used in vehicles, on pets, for surveillance, to
find fish and for child safety. These devices work by utilizing a
transmitter and receiver. The transmitter is attached to the
subject to be tracked. When activated, the transmitter emits radio
signals to the receiver. From the receiver, the signal is processed
by a control box or computer.
Vehicle Tracking Devices
Vehicle tracking devices can be used to locate a vehicle,
provide driving directions, turn off a vehicle engine or lights,
provide information to law enforcement and provide information
regarding vehicle performance. Global positioning system, or GPS,
devices link to a satellite to receive signals and data.
Cell Phone Tracking
The cell phone is one of the most commonly used tracking
devices. As long as the phone is turned on and receiving signals
from a cell tower, it can be used to track a person's movements.
The police and other emergency response personnel can track nearly
any cell phone.
Tracking Devices for Children
Thanks to technology, today's GPS devices are small enough to be
placed into the shoes, jackets or watches of children. These
devices allow parents to locate their children via the internet. In
addition, these tracking devices can be activated by the child in
the case of an emergency.
Pet Tracking Devices
Pet tracking devices allow pet owners to find a pet that has
wandered away from home or been stolen. These devices may be
embedded in a pet's collar or implanted under the skin. For
tracking device implantation, a tiny chip is injected under the
pet's skin by way of a shot.
Choosing a Tracking Device
When choosing a tracking device, decide which type of unit you
need by determining what functions you expect it to perform.
Tracking devices can be simple units that provide basic location
information, or they can be large pieces of complex equipment that
have extra functions. Some units are designed for use around water,
while others are only good for vehicle navigation. Many of the
high-end devices include upgraded features such as: a large screen,
interactive maps, voice command and media players. GPS tracking
units range in price from $150 up to more than $10,000. They are
available for purchase from many online merchants and from a wide
variety of retailers.
