Tracking Devices

Answer 1

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.