09:43:45 pm, by gps guy , 755 words, 59 views Categories: GPS Fleet Tracking
What Does Vehicle Fleet Tracking Mean To You?
Vehicle fleet tracking is a great technology for companies who have to manage vehicles used by employees as part of their company business. Companies who employ good fleet management policies can often reductions in their insurance policies as well as save on fuel and maintenance costs. This article below discusses the benefits of using a vehicle fleet tracking system in your business. Read on for a range of uses and benefits.
Tracking the movements of a large fleet of company vehicles, trucks, light vans, or private cars, was a logistics nightmare in the majority of cases. In the days before GPS, fleet operation managers, was dependent on telephone calls from depots, roadside cafes or any other means possible, such as their famous but unreliable walkie-talkie system operated by the drivers to keep track of their vehicle's movements. In most cases the walkie-talkie systems would be out or range of the control centers, so the drivers would pass on their message to other drivers who were within range, who would pass it on to another driver who was nearer the command center, till the message finally made it home. Then the command center would send a reply, and the whole process would be repeated in the opposite direction.
When you consider that some of the larger companies operate vehicle fleets than run into the hundreds them you can probably imagine that their control rooms were pretty hectic and noisy places to be.
However, over the last five years or so, the communications industry has made some major steps forward that have made life immeasurably easier. Two major advancements, linked to the same technology, began to be available for general use. The first was the mobile phone, which meant that the drivers could be reached anywhere and anytime. The other was the availability of GPS technology, which allowed the fleet operators ready access to the movements of the vehicle fleet around the clock and in real time.
This ability was a true godsend in vehicle fleet tracking, and reduced the necessity for the command centers to be in touch with the drivers by phone, only in the case of emergencies. There are 26 GPS satellites constantly circling the planet, each of them completing an entire orbit every 12 hours. Each satellite is technology capable of receiving and transmitting millions of signals every hour back to any amount of command centers back on the Earth's surface. Working in recognized grids, the satellites recognize a transmission and correlate this information and use a triangulation of signals between any three satellites to calculate the user's exact location. The command center can receive an updates on each vehicles movement every minute up to every fifteen, depending on how high a level of accuracy the command center needs to calculate each of their vehicle's movements.
This ability to track their fleet's movement has worked wonders for fleet operators in increasing the efficiency and reducing the running costs. Especially important when you consider that fuel sots are constantly on the increase and eroding the vehicle fleets operators already hard pressed profit margins.
So what are the principal benefits that real time GPS technology has brought to vehicle fleet operators?
1. Savings in fuel costs, as drivers become aware that their movements are being monitored, are reluctant to deviate form their fixed routes.
2. Savings in time, as drivers become aware that their movements are being monitored are reluctant to take unauthorized stops.
3. Savings in both fuel and wear tear of the company vehicle, as drivers are less inclined to use their vehicles for unauthorized journeys after hours.
4. Reductions in the risk to human life as drivers reduce their speeds.
5. Reduction in vehicle theft as the criminals steers clear of vehicles showing a GPS sticker. They know the vehicle can be easily traced and even immobilized, so they have gone back to stealing hub caps.
6. Reduction in insurance premiums as the insurance companies review statistics that show the vehicles that have GPS systems on board are involved in fewer accidents and are rarely stolen.
7. Increase in sales as customers realize that deliveries from the company arrive on time.
Just a few examples of the savings in costs ass well as the increase efficiency levels that can be achieved by vehicle fleet operators who install GPS vehicle tracking systems. No one who can argue that the communication revolution that GPS technology has been at the forefront has made the world a better place for vehicle fleet operators. And certainly quieter.
01:35:41 am, by gps guy , 610 words, 74 views Categories: GPS Fleet Tracking
The Two Features You Must Have In Your Vehicle Fleet Tracking Solution That Will Save You Money
Businesses such as repair services, delivery services and even vehicle rental companies depend upon the vehicles in their fleets to run their business. With the cost of fuel and raising insurance rates, running a fleet is a large portion of the expense of these businesses, so anything that they can do to cut back on the costs of keeping their fleets running will be a big benefit to them. One solution is to implement a system that keeps track of the individual vehicles in their fleets.
Vehicle Fleet Tracking is a Telematics application that allows fleet managers to keep track of their vehicles. Fleet tracking solutions are a combination of software, hardware and communication services. Each vehicle is outfitted with a piece of hardware that tracks information through a signal that is fed to it (typically from a GPS Satellite). This device can either communicate with the home base in real time, or store the information to be downloaded later when the vehicle is back at the home base. Both scenarios will give the fleet manager the same information that will allow the fleet manager to manage the vehicles in their fleets.
There are many Telematics service providers that come with different features with their services. For the fleet manager, they would want to know specific information that will allow them to cut back on costs such as fuel and insurance, some of the biggest expenses in operating a fleet. When a fleet manager is looking for a solution, they want to make sure that their solution has vehicle tracking and vehicle tracing.
Vehicle tracking is the process of knowing where you vehicle is at any moment. This feature is found in systems that have active tracking as opposed to having the tracking data downloaded after the fact when the vehicle is back at the base (called passive tracking). Vehicle tracking helps the fleet manager with planning deliveries and pickups, enhancing customer service and improves driver productivity. Drivers are able to get the shortest routs and avoid traffic back-ups.
Vehicle Tracing is the other feature that you need to have in your fleet tracking solution that will save you money. Vehicle tracing provides a record of where a vehicle has been and what it has been doing. This feature can be found in both active and passive tracking solutions. Some of the information that is tracked through vehicle tracing includes routes traveled, the number of stops and where, if the driver has been speeding and what route deviations the driver took. This helps the fleet manager determine if the driver has taken any unauthorized stops, and could help the driver if they have been accused of something that he or she didn’t do.
Some of the other benefits of vehicle tracing is that it assists with route planning, saving excess mileage and money. This information can also build an average travel time log between locations thus giving more accurate estimated times. Vehicle tracing also provides records for use in future potential disputes with customers or drivers. Vehicle tracing also allows the fleet manager to manage driver behavior like making sure the drivers don’t use the company vehicles for personal use.
Vehicle tracking and vehicle tracing are the fleet managers best friend when it comes to being able to save the company money on their fleet operations. These solutions are found in many of the telematics and GPS tracking service providers’ product offerings. When looking for a vehicle fleet tracking solution, make sure your service provider is offering these features in their solutions.
03:01:27 am, by gps guy , 451 words, 90 views Categories: GPS Fleet Tracking
GPS Fleet Management - How Technology Can Help Reduce Your Running Costs
With all the questions I get about the advantages and disadvantages of fleet tracking and management, I though this would be a good article that lists one advantage of GPS tracking, and that is reducing the cost of operating your fleet. Read on for more cost reduction specifics as well as other advantages.
Major advances in technology and manufacturing has meant that
GPS Tracking technology is now readily available, and affordable
to both businesses and consumers alike.
GPS is now seen as a necessity for anyone who has a fleet of
vehicles and is interested in using them daily. It may seem to
an average man that where does the need for GPS tracking arise
when everything is going on well without it.
GPS Tracking systems offer a number of benefits to their owners.
In this article we will focus on the benefits of GPS Tracking
devices installed in vehicles and fleets.
With the rising cost of fuel a GPS Tracking device fitted to a
vehicle can help to increase the awareness of the efficiency of
the driving, or how much fuel is being consumed. It can also
help business locate the whereabouts of a company vehicle and if
necessary, allocate them to a new job request that is close to
their location. Not only does this help to improve the
efficiency of your fleet, but also provides your customers with
a much improved, responsive service.
Probably one of the most obvious reasons for installing GPS
Tracking devices in fleet is to track the location of your
vehicle either when out on a job, or if the vehicle is lost or
stolen.
Technology such as geofencing will allow the owner of a fleet to
receive alerts if the vehicle breaks a virtual boundary, useful
if you suspect your employees are using your company vehicles
for something other than work.
Another area of importance that can result in cost savings for
your business is Insurance. Generally, Insurance companies know
that vehicles that have GPS Tracking devices installed are less
prone to accidents and thefts. This alone can contribute to
about 15-20% savings in your bill.
In today's business world, with increased pressure and profit
expectations, the Investment of a GPS Tracking device to assist
with the management of your fleet is a necessity.
About the author:
Ian Sheldon founded eSoftware Solutions in 2004 and has since
established a portfolio of brand names ranging from start ups to
market leaders. Over the last couple of years he has overseen a
number of SEO projects that have been successful. GPS Fleet Management
solutions could be the answer to many firms questions on how to
manage their corporate fleet and help to save on running costs.
Types of GPS (Global Positioning System = Tracking Systems) Available For Your Vehicle
This article gives you a basic idea about what different types of vehicle tracking systems are out there. I at first thought it was going to be about the different kinds of vehicle tracking systems in terms of the technology and what they do (active tracking systems vs. passive tracking systems), however, this article discusses the differences between built-in, portable and pocket GPS tracking systems. It gives a good introductory basic experience of what these different systems are. The part that needs to be beefed up is in talking about the pros and cons of these different types of tracking devices.
Traveling around new places has become a great deal easier with the advent of Global Positioning System (GPS). Earlier, when we planed an excursion to a new destination we were often concerned about navigation our way in the unknown vicinity. People used to hire guides for the purpose, which definitely burnt hole in their pockets. Further, if you are not familiar with the language of the guide then there is very less you can do to complete your tour successfully. All these hassles have been remarkably minimized by GPS. The application finds a wide application in several spheres, including, defense, mining, traveling and exploration, and many more.
GPS turned out to be a significant tool for the explorers, therefore it finds a broad usage in modern automobiles. Almost all of the contemporary luxury cars come with GPS installed in them. GPS enables the user in finding the places of their interest, such as restaurants, clinics, clubs, famous sites, or any other such place. However, if your car is not fitted with any sort of GPS device, then it can be also installed separately. There are different types of GPS available for the automobiles. So, before going to buy any specific GPS for your vehicle, make sure that you are purchasing the most suitable for you. Some of the major types of GPS systems are given here:
• In-built GPS - Almost all the major car manufacturers are offering in-built GPS application in their cars. These cars have GPS tools fixed into a dash, and hence don't get lost easily. However, cars with in-built GPS are more expensive than their non GPS version.
• Portable GPS Tools- These GPS units are tailored to easily carry the device. These are not rigidly fitted into the automobile and can be moved from one vehicle to other easily. So, if you have more that one car, then this type of system is highly recommended for you. The system helps you in saving you lots of bucks and time. You can also take this system into your home when you are not driving, and help your kids to learn more about the city you are living in. These GPS devices usually weigh around 10 Oz, and have 4" inch wide display fitted in it. Its price range starts from $250, and can go up to $500, depending upon the functions and features of the device.
• Pocket GPS Tools- The pocket tracking device is an advanced form of the portable GPS unit for automobiles. It can be fit into your pocket or palm, and can be easily carried anywhere you go. These devices are a bit more expensive than the portable form of automobile GPS tracking devices. These devices can have a starting price tag of $400, and can go up to $600 for an advanced unit.
All these GPS applications have their own pros and cons, and their applicability largely depends upon your needs. So, before making purchase of the suitable GPS application, prioritize your needs and buy accordingly. Learn more and find out about types of gps (global positioning system = tracking systems) available for your vehicle.
Article by Richard Crittendon on behalf of Automobile.com - for more great information on cars & driving, see these recent reviews on the [http://car-reviews.automobile.com/Chevrolet/review/2008-chevrolet-cobalt-ls-sedan-road-test/5546/ ]2008 Chevrolet Cobalt LS and the [http://car-reviews.automobile.com/Chevrolet/review/2008-chevrolet-malibu-hybrid-road-test/5791/ ]2008 Chevy Malibu Hybrid
This article is a good article that discusses the basic benefits of using GPS tracking for your truck fleet. IT covers areas of saving money, easier monitoring of expenses, and saving time because of the tracking capabilities available in some software. Although this article covers a specific system - Jett Track, it offers similiar features that other gps tracking devices and systems offer.
JETT-Track saves companies hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. These GPS vehicle tracking units have numerous features that make tracking vehicles and streamlining operations simple.
1. Monitor company gas cards/purchases
Gas will probably only get more expensive, and some employees try to cut corners while cutting money out of your bottom line. Can you afford even one employee stealing $10 in fuel every week ($520/year) from your gas account? That's $520 you could put in your own gas tank! Questionable purchases can be tracked and verified with our easy-to-use GPS vehicle tracking software.
2. Ensure proper work hours, lunch breaks and overtime records
This is another area where you can save thousands of dollars per year. Employees won't record incorrect work, lunch or overtime hours if they know their work vehicle is being tracked. If you can gain even 15 minutes of productivity each day, you will save about $1,500 per employee each year.
3. Limit unnecessary trips and unauthorized use
Your employees? off-route driving could completely end once they know a GPS vehicle tracking unit is installed in their vehicle. No more extended lunches, driving off-route to go home to eat, run errands, etc.
One customer reported that one driver was traveling home 30 miles per day when they should have been working. That's a potential savings of $10-15 in fuel per day. And that's just one driver! Imagine what you can save if all of your drivers stay productive.
The more your workers work efficiently and record correct information, the more your business profits and operates cost-efficiently.
4. Use less fuel and stop speeding drivers
The EPA estimates that consistently driving 10MPH slower increases fuel efficiency by 20
- 5 gallon weekly decrease in fuel usage
- Weekly fuel savings of $20
- Annual fuel savings of $1,040
(varies based on MPG, daily miles driven and fuel cost)
The below sample cost savings and ROI is for a single employee. Your ROI will vary based on your number of vehicles, amount of miles driven and gas mileage.
Jack is a copywriter for Jett-Track. He has 12 years experience in the GPS truck tracking industry.
11:53:01 pm, by gps guy , 171 words, 104 views Categories: GPS Fleet Tracking
Essential Benefits To Having A Car Alarm Installled In Corporate Fleet Vehicles
I was going to include the entire article with this post but really only the last part of the article applies to this subject. The point is that fleet managers look for ways to make managing their fleet more efficient and also look for ways that create less loss of vehicles in the fleet. GPS fleet tracking is a good solution to this problem. Most of the article talks about car alarms and why they are good especially if you live in a dodgy neighborhood... I will include a link to the article if you want to read the whole thing.
The end of the article talks about how car alarms are now coming equipped with GPS tracking technology that turns on when the alarm is activated. Thus making it easy to pinpoint the vehicle, if the thief isn't high tech themselves and isn't carrying a GPS jamming device with them....
If you are looking for ways to cut costs in your new vehicle, then if the manufacture offers in-vehicle gps tracking system for your auto, then you are probably paying a premium cost for that gps tracking system... You can give yourself the same capability for a fraction of the cost. Read on in the article to find out how.
Not only are auto navigation systems great to have while on your trip, they are also quite useful when planning your trip. Auto Navigation Systems Offer Unparalleled Assistance
In this day and age of personal assistants, personal shoppers, personal chefs, and all too personal personals it only makes sense that now we have what is jokingly (in many cases) referred to as a personal navigator. Many newer cars, particularly luxury models, are beginning to offer auto navigation systems to drivers as incentives to purchase or as part of luxury packages and upgrades. The idea of that little extra security and luxury is quite appealing to many drivers, especially those of us who could get lost in the mall parking lot if exits weren't clearly marked.
The truth of the matter is that even if you elect not to pay the premium upgrade costs that car makers are adding to the price tag for the luxury of those devices it is quite possible to have the protection and peace of mind that auto navigation systems afford drivers on even the most meager of driving budgets. Facts are facts and getting lost costs time and money while stopping to ask for directions is a risk in and of itself. If you spend a lot of time on the road you really can't afford not to have some sort of navigational device to assist you in getting safely and securely to your next destination.
If the fact that you can purchase these devices rather inexpensively isn't enticing enough for you, I should add that most are quite simple to install yourself. Many of them require nothing more than the ability to stick a suction cup to your windshield and plug an adapter into a cigarette lighter. I did mention that installation was simple didn't I?
I am not afraid of adventure or trying new things. Occasionally you will find that your goals and desires of your auto navigation system or GPS will require use in more than one of these instances, the good news is there's a device for that too! Seriously, there is a device that is suitable for almost every possible need and use.
For those who love adventure in the great outdoors the following handheld GPS systems offer an excellent choice for keeping you on track and in the know: Garmin eTrex Vista Cx Color Handheld GPS Unit, Magellan eXplorist 600, and Lowrance iFinder Hunt Color. In fact, the chances are that you are paying quite the premium price for these lovely features and aren't even aware.
You may also be delighted to find that your navigation system can on occasion show you a much quicker route to your destination than you may have anticipated. This is one reason that people tend to leave them charging at all times if you're leaving your car with your unit be sure you have extra batteries for backup as it is quite likely that you will need them at the worst possible moment. The methods mentioned above are simply icing on the cake.
It is a completely personal decision as to whether or not this is the option that is best for you. Navigational assistance is a great way to discover where you are, where you've been, and get your where you want to go. As I've said before, there is no perfect navigational solution for everyone, but there are quite a few that are nearly perfect for all who will dare to use them.
Jillain is our resident technology and outdoor woman. She writes extensively in our bargain hunting pages about finding bargains. This latest edition for http://autonavigationbargains.info talks about auto navigation systems, geocaching, GPS and much more - she says - Keep in mind that when these systems first hit the market $1,000 was on the ultra low end. Another way to save money on navigational aids and devices is not to shop among the top of the line devices. 5) Tracking important items while traveling.
11:50:17 am, by gps guy , 591 words, 4521 views Categories: GPS Vehicle Tracking
Vehicle Tracking Device: What You Need To Know Before Buying One (GPS tracking vehcail )
This is an entry level article about passive and active gps tracking. It does a decent job going over the the difference between passive and active GPS tracking, but spends much more time on active tracking than passive. You will definately want to do more research after reading the article, but you will know where to go next for info on GPS tracking vehcail after reading the article.
Vehicle tracking devices utilize GPS, global positioning system,
to electronically track the location of a vehicle. GPS
satellites transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers
pick up and store this information. The receivers work best with
an unobstructed view of the sky so they are best used outdoors
and not in highly forested areas or near tall buildings. GPS
systems use an accurate time reference, which is provided by an
atomic clock on board the satellite.
Vehicle tracking devices have many uses. They are often used by
companies to keep track of business mileage and job performance.
As an anti-theft device, vehicle trackers are used to enable
police to locate a stolen vehicle quickly and easily. Many auto
insurance companies offer a special discount to those who have a
tracking device installed in their vehicles. They are also
useful for navigation. A vehicle tracker can be hooked up to an
on-board laptop computer to provide the driver with location and
direction of travel. Vehicle tracking devices can also be used
to keep track of family members, especially teenagers who are
only allowed minimal vehicle access. Certain types of GPS
systems are linked to special services such calling 911 in
emergency situations and reporting your location so that
emergency responders can find you.
There are 2 types of vehicle tracking devices: real-time and
passive. The real time tracking system allows you to locate a
vehicle live on the website. Special computer software is loaded
onto the computer that will be used to access the information.
When connected to the internet, you can view real-time
information on the location, speed and direction of travel of a
vehicle. Before buying a real time tracking device, make sure
that your computer systems are compatible to the requirements of
the tracking software.
Vehicle tracking devices that use real-time technology require a
monthly subscription to a GPS service. This price varies from
company to company but is generally under $20 per month. The
subscription is typically purchased along with the tracking
device.
Passive GPS tracking system isn't as sophisticated as real-time
system, but is less expensive. The tracking device is placed
inside a vehicle and information stored can be easily downloaded
to your computer at a later time. This allows you to view where
the vehicle has been, often recorded at 15-minute intervals.
Many new companies are springing up all the time, so be sure to
buy your vehicle tracking device from a reputable company. You
can easily locate a good dealer on the internet. There are some
well-known companies that are adept at providing high-quality
tracking service. If you are not computer savvy most companies
offer to help you get started and can assist on an ongoing basis
if problems occur.
About the author:
GPS tracking systems are becoming very popular in providing
vehicle tracking solutions to personal and business needs.
Vehicle tracking devices can help you save time and money. There
are gps tracking systems to suit every budget and needs. Check
out our top resources on the latest gps systems at http://www.gpstrackingsys.com/art-vehdev
Here is an interesting news item on how GPS vehicle tracking is evolving. In many tracking solutions, a lot of information is provided, which means more data has to be transmitted. The more data that is transmitted, the higher the transmission cost for the fleet manager. It looks as if this solution customizes which data is actually transmitted to the vehicle fleet manager based upon what features they actually need. For instance, if the fleet manager doesn't care about how fast the vehicles are going, they don't need that information transmitted to them. Quite an innovative solution if you ask me.
01:45:27 pm, by gps guy , 656 words, 2283 views Categories: GPS Vehicle Tracking
GPS Vehicle Tracking - A Guide To The Tools Available
This article talks about some of the GPS Vehicle Tracking devices that are available on the market today. It gives a brief description of what the Garmin StreetPilot 2730 and the Initial GD-70X does and some feature descriptions. A good place to start if your looking for information about the GPS vehical tracking devices.
GPS - What does it stand for?
Global Positioning System - Now, it is mainly used for
navigation, both terrestrial and marine. Initially it was used
by the U.S. military for locating and identifying friends as
well as foes. The system uses military and commercial satellites
for tracking anything that moves and has an emitter with or on
it. Error margins, for GPS, are nowadays within 100 meters, and
this can be narrowed down by using differential base stations
(DBS). However, they are hard to use since their range is quite
limited.
A new substitute for the American satellites will be the Galileo
Satellite System, developed and realized in Europe. The first
satellite, called Glove, was launched in late 2005 from
Baikonur, Russian Federation.
GPS - What can I do with it?
Here are just a few of this wonderful piece of equipment. For
instance, if you get lost, your GPS unit can pinpoint you your
current position, or, it can make a breeze from an awful task
such as planning a trip. However, its main uses are in vehicle
tracking. Most trucking companies have GPS units on all of their
trucks. This way it is very easy to finding out where a trucker
has been to, or where he currently is. Since the first GPS units
were installed on trucks and cars, specialized companies and
sites appeared.
Lets look at a two GPS units and their characteristics.
Garmin StreetPilot 2730
This is one of the latest products available on the market. Its
producer presents it as being a "great utility, even when
drivers know exactly where they are." Some of its features
include access to the XM NavTraffic (a data-traffic information
service, based on low orbit satellites, covering all of the
USA), allowing it to suggest faster routes, before traffic-jam.
The navigation map on StreetPilot 2730, graphically represents
any incident affecting the road, including man-made, like
road-construction, or accidents. Weather forecasts are also
shown on the GPS unit, for as many as 162 cities. The
StreetPilot 2730, also reads MP3s, and the music can be sent to
the car's stereo through its stereo jack or through a FM
transmitter. The unit is equipped with an antenna, Garmin GXM
30, which can be placed on the roof of the car, or on the
dashboard. It is waterproof and has a magnetic end, for easier
placement.
Initial GD-70X
This "little" gizmo has a 7" color LCD, the obvious GPS
navigational system, as well as a DVD player, thus making it
ideal for family vacations. It can pinpoint your location on the
map, as well as playback your favorite movie or tracks. It has a
set of maps which includes both Canada ant the US. Its map
database includes over two million points of interest and it has
a 250MB internal memory, large enough for downloading maps and
POIs. An interesting feature are the voice directions, which
will help you focus on the road, an still know where you are,
and what kind of conditions you are facing out there. Also, it
includes a day/night mode, making it easier to read according to
the time of use. The incorporated CD/DVD player can keep the
passengers entertained as well, and if you don't have a car
stereo (who doesn't), you can always listen to its built-in
stereo speakers.
These are just two of the many products on the market that can
help you with GPS vehicle tracking.
This article by the author John Eller talks about how gps tracking systems can be used to manage fleets of vehicles, and how they can save a business a lot of money by the use of these fleet tracking systems. It gives a good overview of how these gps fleet tracking systems can be integrated into business operations. For a business who wants to find out more information, they can look at these gps tracking service providers.
A 2005 study indicates that the average employee wastes 2.09 hours per day of their employer's time. If you own a delivery company, service company or limo service, you don't have to speculate about employee down time if you install a non-intrusive GPS vehicle tracking system into your vehicles.
GPS tracking systems are electronic devices installed in vehicles to enable owners to track a vehicle's location. By using GPS modules, you can easily and accurately target vehicle locations. Specifically, these systems combine a communications component, such as cellular or satellite transmitters, to communicate the vehicle's location to a remote user. This information and/or location can then be viewed on electronic maps via the Internet or specialized software.
Corporations with large fleets of vehicles require a vehicle tracking system to determine where each vehicle is at any given time. Along with employee time accountability, vehicle tracking systems are often used for functions like routing, dispatch, onboard information and security. Other applications include monitoring driving behavior and managing mobile workforce overtime with scheduled updates as frequently as once per minute.
Keep Your Drivers Honest!
Ken Sink, owner of My Vehicle WatchDog, is a veteran with more than 20 years of transportation experience, including fleet management of over 800 vehicles. Regarding the benefits of GPS trackers, he said, "I believe employees should be trusted and treated as adults. But, if you've ever driven a rental vehicle differently than the car you own, then you understand how an employee may mistreat a company vehicle. Take the speeding employee, for example. Employees, who drive too fast waste your gasoline, wear out your vehicle prematurely and sooner or later, drive up your insurance rates. A GPS vehicle tracking system can alert you when someone exceeds your pre-set speed limit. It's your vehicle, your fuel and your insurance premium; a tracking system helps you regain control of them."
Are your vehicles being used after hours or on the weekends? Is an employee using your vehicle to moonlight? Are your vehicles being used for personal errands? You'll know with certainty if you install a GPS vehicle tracking device in your vehicles.
How do you currently verify overtime claims? Maybe you can verify the work was done, but when? With a GPS tracking system, you can verify when the work was done by cross-checking a vehicle's location with the time of day it was there.
One of the primary benefits of GPS vehicle tracking systems is that you'll never have to make another phone call to find out where your employees are--you can simply look on the map displayed on your computer screen. Also, your GPS tracking system will remind you when it's time to rotate tires, change oil or perform other scheduled maintenance on the vehicles in your fleet. And, many insurance companies offer discounts of up to 30% for vehicles protected with GPS tracking systems.
Tracking your employees in the field has never been easier--GPS tracking is a reliable and affordable way to drastically cut overtime costs. Once implemented, you'll quickly realize the value of keeping GPS vehicle tracking as an integral part of your business operations. After all: time is money--your money.
Make Traveling A Lot Less Stressful With The Right Type Of Car GPS
This is an interesting article about how GPS vehicle tracking is used to help you keep track of where you are and to help you get to your destination. It goes over some of the different solutions that you can get for GPS vehicle Tracking.
Navigating using maps can be very frustrating especially if you are doing so while driving your car. This becomes even stressful when you are driving all alone in a strange territory. Sometimes, however, having someone with you won't help either, because more often than not, your companion would end up confusing you more than helping you navigate the road.
But traveling need not always be this difficult. It doesn't even have to be stressful. If you think it is the map that is causing you your problems, then better get away with it and throw it outside your vehicle's window. Instead, go get a new car GPS receiver and use it instead of the map.
Car GPS Devices
Simply said, a car GPS device is a GPS receiver especially designed for cars and their navigation systems. Like all other types of GPS receivers, car GPS devices can also receive signals from GPS satellites and can use the information carried by these signals to determine its current location. But because they are meant to be used on moving vehicles, they must be stuffed with features specific to vehicle navigations systems.
In particular, car GPS devices must be able to give you the best possible route toward a particular destination. It must also be able to recalculate your route in case you miss a particular route instruction. It must also have a text and/or voice system for giving directions. Other basic features that all car GPS devices must have are:
- Map storage system
- Screen or display that can handle images of more than 320x240 pixels in size at a resolution and brightness suitable for driving.
- Address book for storing frequently visited addresses and points of interest
- Detachable or external antenna for better GPS visibility
Now, there are a lot of car GPS devices of different kinds and brands available for every type and brand of car there is today. Because of this, you may find it difficult to select the particular car GPS that would perfectly fit your needs, should you want to experience the functionality of one.
In general, however, you've got two options should you want to travel with a car GPS device. The first option is to purchase a vehicle with built-in or fixed car GPS system. The other option is to purchase a portable car GPS device suitable for your car.
Buying a Vehicle with a Fixed Car GPS Device
Built-in or fixed car GPS devices can usually be found only on brand new luxury vehicles. As such, you definitely wouldn't see this option viable if you don't have the cash to purchase a luxury vehicle. But for those who can easily afford one, this can be the best option because the GPS device is already integrated in the vehicle's system. This removes all the hassle of installing the car GPS device on the vehicle and loading additional navigation software on the system.
Buying a Portable Car GPS Device
For those who simply can't afford a new luxury vehicle but still wants to enjoy the functionality of a car GPS system, the viable option for him is to purchase a portable car GPS device. Now, for this type of car GPS device, you are again given two options: a portable car GPS preloaded with maps or a unit that would require you to transfer map data from your PC to the device.
Since the car GPS device needs to have a map in either option, choosing a car GPS unit preloaded with maps would seem to be a wiser choice. But while this type of car GPS device will save you from all the hassles of loading maps to the system, it also costs higher ($1,000-$1,500) than the other option.
The greatest advantage of portable car GPS units that requires map transfers, on the other hand, is their price, which would generally sell at the $500 to $800 range. Installing the system on your car, however, may be quite difficult and laborious.
John Rivers is the owner of GPS Navigation Devices. On his website you can find information on everything related to GPS.
It's 10pm - Do You Know Where Your Car Is? Direct-Track Does!
This article talks specifically about Direct-Track. It provides an Internet based GPS Tracking solution for veicles. I think the technology for GPS tracking will move towards being an Internet Based model, as the ease of implementation and access to tracking data is better on the Internet. Vehicle tracking is becoming more popular in the consumer market.
Latest GPS Vehicle Tracking Technology Now Available.
Direct-Track is the first to offer publicly, GPS|Internet tracking solutions for all
cars, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles. Deregulation by the FCC
of telecommunications services has made GPS/cellular technology
available to the public that can deliver an affordable tracking product
that can be acquired with light disposable income. The Direct-Track
Mobile Locating Unit (MLU) uses existing cellular airwaves and takes
advantage of the global positioning system currently used by the
government to track cars, motorcycles and recreational vehicles.
Direct-Track utilizes a constellation of 24 geo-synchronous satellites
providing precise navigation and position information to the GPS
receiver. This perfect marriage of technologies enables system users to
track and contact vehicles at any time of day or night via the Internet, or a cell phone.
In the event a car is stolen, an email and/or a cell phone call can be issued immediately, and the unit
owner can disable the vehicle starter and lock the doors. GPS is the
perfect solution for small fleet owners: One customer states, "I trust
my employees, but I elected to enhance my fleet with Direct-Track GPS.
GPS tracking isn't about doubting employee trust, it's about running
our business more efficiently and offering our customers the best
service possible." After 4 years, the benefits of GPS are evident. "On
the whole, GPS has increased our productivity significantly and reduced
our fuel consumption. Direct-Track GPS definitely delivers in terms of
ROI."Direct-Track GPS offers affordable safety and security: "This is
the first time virtually anyone can afford to track their valuable assets and loved ones."
From a teen-aged driver out late at night, to the stolen car, Direct-Track GPS delivers answers to the question, "Where..", and all within seconds. All via the internet this truly revolutionary security and safety technology grants benefits through "peace of mind."
For further information on Direct-Track or its technology, or to order your unit, please contact Direct-Track at 1-866-443-5707, Distributer Danielle Hecox at e-mail protected from spam bots, or log on to http://www.westcoastgps.com. Paul Angel, President, Direct-Track.
Service and Distribution Companies Continue Discrete Wireless GPS Rollouts in Record Numbers
This is a news item from earlier this year but I thought it was interesting because it marks the beginning trend of the general public becoming aware of GPS tracking technology and how it can be used in the business environment. This news item focuses on wireless technology, which is only one of the ways to implement a GPS fleet tracking solution.
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 27, 2006 -- Atlanta-based Discrete Wireless, Inc., a leading provider of GPS Fleet Management Systems, today announced that following 2005, a year in which new customer rollouts grew by more than 50%, 2006 sales, boosted by existing customer add-ons, look to be even stronger.
“Industry data reports and word-of-mouth continue to validate what our customers already know,†said Doug Benson, Director of Marketing for Discrete Wireless. “GPS Fleet Management Systems are at the top of the list with regards to return on investment.â€
Existing Discrete Wireless customers such as Peach State Roofing, Bright House Networks, MC Dean, and Aaron Rents are continuing regional and national rollouts of Discrete Wireless GPS systems.
“Once a company’s management team sees how much money they save on vehicles equipped with a GPS system, and how much more productive the drivers of those vehicles become, they aggressively begin rolling out GPS systems to their entire fleet,†said Wayne Johnson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Discrete Wireless.
The Real-Time GPS Fleet Management Systems industry has been growing steadily over the last six years. Using the Discrete Wireless GPS system, company administrators can view detailed maps on which the exact location of every fleet vehicle is displayed along with live statistics on each vehicle.
Mature products, such as the Discrete Wireless GPS system also include built-in reports and alerts, which can be customized and automatically delivered to one or more e-mail boxes and/or wireless handheld devices. Managers then use this real-time data to more effectively manage their fleets.
By using the vehicle and driver statistics available through the GPS system, Discrete Wireless customers are consistently increasing mobile worker productivity by 20-50%.
Product Information
Discrete Wireless Marcus is a Real-Time, 100% Web-Based GPS Fleet Management and Vehicle Tracking system. MARCUS® v6 contains the most comprehensive suite of features in the industry. Features include point-to-point routing with driving directions, dispatch and 2-way messaging, automated alerts and report delivery, and vehicle maintenance. There is no software to install, and the system can be accessed using a standard internet browser.
About Discrete Wireless
Discrete Wireless delivers GPS Fleet Management Systems. Bright House Networks, Siemens, Ryder, Home Depot, Service Master, Hub Trucking and over 3,000 service and distribution businesses nationwide rely on Discrete Wireless Fleet Management Systems to track the movement of their vehicles, employees, and goods. For more information, call 1-800-358-6178 or visit www.discretewireless.com
This is a good article that talks about the benefits of using GPS Tracking in standard consumer vehicles. With the costs coming down, it is more affordable for the averae consumer to use gps tracking technology in their own personal vehicles.
The Global Positioning System, or GPS as it is widely known, is a navigation system originally developed by the US military which continues its’ maintenance today. It is an integrated system of 24 satellites that orbit the earth and through the navigational process of triangulation can pinpoint a position anywhere on earth where a GPS receiver is located. During the 1980’s the government opened up the use of the GPS to the private sector. It is widely expected to become the next personal utility in the same way that cellular phones have over the past couple of decades.
There are many benefits for the automobile owner to have their vehicle equipped with a GPS navigation system including; saving time, fuel economy, safety, and tracking.
Saving Time – With the use of a GPS receiver in your car you will avoid wasting time being lost. Whether you become truly lost and loose valuable time by going way off the direct route to your destination, or whether you are merely just driving around a neighborhood looking for a specific address a GPS will direct you to your end destination via a direct route. This can save you valuable time, disagreements with fellow passengers, and keep you punctual for your appointments.
Fuel Economy – With the GPS directing you to your destination via a direct route you will end up driving fewer miles. In these times of high fuel prices, any reduction in the number of miles driven will have a positive impact on what you are spending at the pump. You will realize additional savings from needing to service your vehicle less frequently due to; fewer oil changes, fewer engine services, and tires lasting longer just to mention a few. With reduced mileage driven during a year you may even qualify to reduce your auto insurance premium.
Safety - By directing you on your route you will not become lost – therefore you should have no need to have to stop and ask for directions. Nearly everyone has had to stop and ask directions in a neighborhood they did not feel totally safe in – whether it is due to the neighborhood itself or the time of day. In this day of car jackings and random crimes this is an important benefit of owning a GPS receiver for your car.
Tracking- Some GPS are equipped with a feature that allows you to track the location of the vehicle that has the GPS in it. This has significant value if you are trying to keep track of a child that has just received their license or another family member.
While these all have significant impact for personal use, the benefits are greatly compounded when you are using the GPS in a delivery or courier vehicle. If you are in charge of a fleet of vehicles, think of the benefits and how quickly and easily you can recoup your initial investment to equip your cars and/or trucks with GPS. I for one would not consider leaving my home without GPS in my car if I am venturing further than the local supermarket.
An interesting article about the three different types of GPS vehicle tracking that are used today. Read on for the advantages and disadvantages of using each one. Some of the things mentioned in the article as future direction are already being implemented as you read this.
There are three major types of GPS vehicle tracking; cellular based tracking, wireless passive tracking and satellite based real-time GPS tracking. This article will outline the advantages and disadvantages associated with all three types of GPS Vehicle Tracking.
Cellular Based Tracking
The initial costs for setting up the system are slightly lower than the other two options. With cellular based tracking average costs are about $500. A cellular based tracking system transmits information about where a vehicle is every five minutes over a land network. The average monthly costs are about thirty-five dollars for airtime and for the information to be displayed over the internet.
Wireless Passive Tracking
A major advantage to this type of tracking system is that there is no monthly fee, so once the system is set up there will be no other costs associated with it. However, setting up the system is a little expensive. The average is about $700 for the hardware, and $800 for the software and database. With this type of system most people say the disadvantage is that the information about where the vehicle has been can only be found out when the vehicle returns back to the companies base. This is a major drawback especially for companies that are looking for a tracking system that will tell them where their vehicle is if it has been stolen or in an accident. However many systems are now inserting wireless modems to their devices so that tracking information can be viewed without having the memory card from the vehicle. With wireless modem wireless passive tracking systems are also able to collect information about how fast the vehicle is traveling, stops made and other detailed information. With this new addition many companies feel this system is a perfect fit because there is still no monthly bill.
Satellite Based Real-Time Tracking
This type of system gives less detailed information, but it works nationwide, which makes it a good choice for shipping and trucking companies. The costs for setting up the system average around $700. The monthly fees for this system vary from five dollars up to one hundred dollars; based on how detailed a company wants the reports to be.
New Technology
In the next few years GPS tracking will be able to provide companies with a number of other advantages. Some companies have already set up a way to have a customers sign and run credit cards onsite through the unit. Others are setting up ways for dispatchers to send re-routing information directly to a drivers GPS unit. Another new advancement for GPS systems is that they will have internet access and stored information about the vehicle so that a driver or mechanic can use the GPS unit to look up diagrams to help them fix the vehicle. In addition to this all of the information will be stored and saved in the companies database.
Chris Simons is a prolific freelance writer. You are welcomed to visit http://gps.theconsumerguide.net, for more information on GPS Vehicle tracking.
This article talks about some of the best ways to use a vehicle tracking system from a consumer point of view. Even though a few of them are closely related, it does give the reader another way of looking at a particular GPS solution. In conclusion, this article does give someone who wants to learn about GPS vehicle tracking for consumers a good place to start.
Have you ever thought about installing a GPS vehicle tracking
system? Although you may have seen the commercials and have some
knowledge of how the system operates, you may still have
questions as to how the GPS actually works and how it can serve
your personal needs.
Theft Prevention
The most obvious reason to have a GPS vehicle tracking
system is in a situation where your car is stolen. If you ever
become a victim of vehicle theft and are lucky enough to have a
GPS system installed all you will need to do is to inform your
GPS carrier of the theft. They can track the car's exact
location and its speed, when the vehicle has been located, they
will call police to recover it for you.
2. Roadside Assistance
If you happen to be traveling in your car and it begins to
show signs of a mechanical issue, or perhaps it completely
breaks down and leaves you stranded in the middle of nowhere,
you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you only have to
push a button and help will be summoned. Most systems will have
this particular button labeled as a "communication" button.
3. Instant Help
Perhaps one of the most important and emotional reasons to
have a GPS vehicle tracking system installed in your car is the
"panic" button. This button is to be used in cases of
emergency. This can include everything from a fender bender to a
carjacking, what ever the reason, when this button is pushed an
operator at the GPS carrier can immediately listen to what is
happening. If it is safe, and there is no robbery taking place,
they will talk to you and help to asses the situation. If,
however, they determine that it would be detrimental to speak to
you, they will contact the authorities for you.
4. Directional Finder
If you happen to be directionally challenged, you have the
capability to press the communication button. This will put you
in contact with someone who can give you directions that will
lead you to your exact destination. In fact, a GPS vehicle
tracking system is great for many of life's little mishaps.
5. Security and Safety
If you, or your children, get locked out of your
car, it can easily be unlocked by phoning into the call center
of the service you choose. This is also a very handy feature if
you tend to lose your car in a crowded parking lot, they will
find it for you and send the lights flashing and the horn
honking for you. Maybe the best thing about being able to call
for help in these types of situations is that you don't have
to actually see the grins on the faces of the people you are
speaking with.
For many parents, a tracking device can give them peace of mind. It
gives them the ability to call and check upon the exact
whereabouts of a car that is being driven by a child without
directly interfering with their plans.
The advantages of having a GPS vehicle tracking system
installed are numerous, but beware of what you are paying for
before you sign on the dotted line. Find out exactly what
options your plan covers and what the monthly service fee is.
Make sure also, that your system is being installed by someone
who is licensed to do so.
GPS Vehicle Tracking Data: What Do I Get? (Car GPS Tracking)
Below is a very good article that goes over what kind of data can be gotten from GPS car tracking systems. It covers in detail the information and how the GPS car tracking information is used by businesses to help them save money and improve their customer service. This is a great GPS Tracking 102 article to start with if you are wanting to learn more about GPS Tracking.
What information is provided by GPS vehicle tracking systems?
Here is a summary and examples of how you could use data
provided by GPS tracking devices:
Types of GPS Car Tracking Data
Location data: Latitude and longitude provided in degrees,
minutes and seconds. It is accurate to 33 feet, which is as
accurate as any commercial GPS device. A vehicle's location is
updated at intervals of between 2 - 15 minutes. The standard
update interval varies between manufacturers or can be set by
the owner (optional).
* Who is closest to the customer that just called? See where
all your employees are by checking the map. Never again call an
employee just to find out where they are!
Speed calculation: Rate of movement in miles per hour. Movement
in excess of a preset speed (standard) or owner-set speed
(optional) triggers an alert, sent to the owner.
* Are employees routinely speeding? Speeding causes excessive
wear and wastes gasoline. Your vehicles represent your company
to the public; what kind of an image is presented by a speeding
or recklessly-driven company vehicle?
Present direction: Compass direction the vehicle is traveling,
expressed as north, south, east or west.
* Is employee 'X' en route to the customer or leaving their
location?
Geofence use: A 'virtual' geographic boundary, created by the
owner. Crossing this boundary triggers an alert which is sent to
the owner. The alerts are usually e-mail messages or automated
telephone calls from the system to the user, including the
vehicle identification, date/time of crossing, location of
crossing and more, depending upon the system. A Geofence can be
1/4 mile to 20+ miles in diameter.
* Is a delivery truck approaching the warehouse? Is the gate
open?
Alerts: An automatic e-mail, sent to the owner, with the date,
time, location, identification and other details related to some
event which has occurred and deserves your attention. Alerts are
triggered when a vehicle exceeds a preset speed or crosses a
Geofence boundary, for example.
* Email alerts can be sent to your Blackberry or portable
device. You can monitor your company while out of the office or
away from your desk.
Fastest speed report: A daily report of each vehicle's fastest
speed.
* Why was employee 'Y' driving 80 m.p.h.?
Historical data: A record of all data related to each vehicle,
maintained for 90 days.
* Which vehicles averaged the most miles driven each day?
Export vehicle data to an Excel Worksheet to compare
productivity between employees.
Ignition on/off: Time, date and location of each instance where
a vehicle's ignition was turned on or off.
* When was Hooter's restaurant put on employee 'Z's route?
Idle report: Time, date, location and duration of each instance
where a vehicle remained motionless while the engine was
running. Owner can adjust the duration of idle allowed before a
report is generated.
* Idling the engine wastes fuel and causes unnecessary wear.
Employee 'Z's vehicle idled twice as long as employee 'Y's
vehicle; perhaps employee 'Z' should shut off his vehicle's
engine when making deliveries.
Accumulated mileage alert: An alert sent at 3,000 miles, 5,000
miles or at an owner-set interval (optional) as a reminder to
perform preventative maintenance.
* Email: time to have the oil changed on vehicle 'A'.
Location on demand: The ability to locate and display location
info when requested, regardless of when the last scheduled
update occurred.
* Where is employee 'Y'? I need to find him right now!
Map detail: Vehicle location is displayed on a street map, which
the owner can enlarge or reduce to see more or less map detail.
* Employee 'A' says Main Street is closed for construction,
what is the next street West?
Landmarks: Reference points which may or may not be visible on
the map created to designate locations important to the system
user. Landmarks could be customer locations, the user's shop,
warehouse, satellite offices, etc.
* Who has been to the warehouse today?
Breadcrumbs: When requested by the owner, a trail of points can
be displayed on the map, indicating a vehicle's route during a
certain time period.
* Do routes overlap between vehicle 'A' and vehicle 'B'?
Many GPS tracking system providers offer additional information,
but, as I hope you can see, even this list of basic data will
give you all the info you need to manage your vehicles.
About the author:
Ken Sink, owner of My Vehicle WatchDog, is a veteran with 20+
years of transportation experience, including fleet management
of over 800 vehicles. Visit http://www.MyVehicleWatchDog.Info
for more information about GPS vehicle tracking systems from
Fleet Management Solutions, Networkfleet and Sprint/Nextel.
Submit your info for a quick, no-obligation system quote.
Quantity discounts for volume purchases.
