Vehicle Tracking: A Basic Guide

In today’s current climate, “Tracking cum Monitoring” is definitely one of the industries gaining significant prominence as the years roll on by and technology inevitably advances greatly. And due to its numerous applications which we’ll get into, it is highly sort after by governments, corporations (big and small), and private entities.

Vehicle Tracking simply involves monitoring the location, activities, and behaviour of vehicles using technology such as GPS (Global Positioning System), GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication), and other communication tools. As mentioned it has various applications which include; fleet management, logistics, security, and personal tracking.

Hopefully, this basic guide to understanding Vehicle Tracking will serve its double-edged purpose of enlightening as well as entertaining you (yes you are, without any doubt – an esteemed reader *winks); “edutainment” at its finest… And with that said, let’s jump right into it!

Components of Vehicle Tracking System

As with other integrated systems as regards technological doodads – nothing is really “standalone”; therefore, in order to track effectively, there would always be the need for these components. They are:

GPS Receiver: The GPS receiver is the core component that receives signals from satellites to determine the vehicle’s precise location.

Telematics Unit: This unit collects and processes data from various sensors and the GPS receiver. It is responsible for transmitting this information to a central server.

Communication Module: This module enables communication between the Vehicle Tracking System and the central server. Common communication methods include cellular networks, satellite communication, or a combination of both.

Server and Software: The server stores and processes the data received from vehicles whilst the software provides a user interface for real-time tracking, historical data analysis, and reporting.

User Interface (Web or Mobile App): Users can access the tracking system through a web-based platform or mobile application. It allows them to easily and effectively monitor vehicle locations, receive alerts, and generate concise or comprehensive reports if and whenever needed.

Types of Vehicle Tracking

There are basically two types or tracking levels, they include:

Passive Tracking: This is the recording and storage of data for retrieval later. Data is downloaded when the vehicle returns to a home base.

Active/Real-Time Tracking: This is the provision of instant live data, allowing continuous monitoring and quick response to changes or emergencies.

Installation and Activation

Professional Installation or DIY: Vehicle tracking systems often require professional installation. Technicians install GPS devices and ensure proper integration with the vehicle’s systems. You could also research, follow instructions and be able to install yourself as well. After all, almost everyone seem to be “tech savvy” these days.

Activation and Configuration: After installation, the system needs activation and configuration, including setting up geofences, defining alert parameters, and establishing reporting intervals.

Uses and Applications of Vehicle Tracking

The uses and applications of Vehicle Tracking are aplenty, they include but not limited to:

History and Reports: This aids users to review historical routes, stops, and events. Reporting features help in analysing vehicle usage patterns.

Geofencing: Geofencing enables the creation of virtual boundaries – defining specific areas for vehicles. Alerts are triggered whenever a vehicle enters or exits a predefined area. It is commonly used for monitoring unauthorised vehicle usage, ensuring vehicles stay within designated regions, or optimising delivery routes.

Speed Monitoring: Vehicle(s) speed can be monitored and alerts sent out, if a predefined speed limit is exceeded.

Fuel Monitoring: Fuel usage can be properly monitored to enable optimal fuel consumption and efficiency.

Maintenance Alerts: Notifications can be sent out for scheduled maintenance based on mileage or engine hours logged.

Driver Behaviour Monitoring: Driver behaviour, including harsh acceleration, braking, and cornering – can all be monitored in fantastically pedantic detail in real time or like we usually say in our local parlance – as e dey hot!

Security and Anti-Theft Features: Security features such as ignition status, remote immobilisation, and theft alerts can be integrated into the system.

Fleet, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management: Most of the uses listed already point towards effective management of assets, both human and vehicular – so it is unsurprising that optimisation of fleet operations is made possible by the astute tracking of vehicles coupled with proper management of routes – which in turn enables efficient management of shipments, reducing delays, and improving overall logistics experience.

Personal Vehicle Tracking: Tracking of personal vehicles for security, location sharing, and monitoring family members can be achieved efficiently.

Emergency Response: Vehicle Tracking greatly aids in emergency situations by providing accurate and timely information on vehicle positions within or heading into distressed locations.

As stated in the beginning of this article, Vehicle Tracking Systems play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency, safety, and security across various industries especially in this current clime of “instant information”. Choosing the right system for your specific needs however – is essential for harnessing and reaping its maximum benefits.

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