GPS Vehicle Fleet Tracking in Business Today

GPS Vehicle Fleet Tracking isn't just for the big businesses anymore. Businesses with fleets as small as 5 vehicles are using GPS vehicle fleet tracking and finding themselves making back their investment within a short period of time. Fortunately, technology changes are making it more affordable for these smaller businesses to use this GPS fleet tracking to serve their needs.

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) use a network of satellites beaming time-stamped signals to receivers on the surface of the Earth. By measuring the delay between when the signal was sent and when it arrived from three different satellites, you can isolate the coordinates of any receiver on the surface of the earth, with a precision that goes down to inches for military receivers, and about two years for commonly available civilian gear.

GPS equipment has become more and more common as cell phone technology has made it more portable and easier to use. There are many benefits to equip your fleets with GPS tracking technology.

Firstly, GPS equipment, and the monitoring software for it, allows you to have precise locations of delivery vehicles. This makes it possible to route technicians and repairmen and delivery personnel more efficiently, and to let customers know, nearly in real time, about any potential delays in routing or delivery.

Second, because of more accurate data gathered on the movements of vehicles in your fleet, you have better control over mileage, proactive maintenance, and fuel economy. It's a lot easier to keep track of fuel economy when you can factor in idle times.

In similar vein, you now have an accurate record of where every vehicle in your fleet has traveled over the course of a given day. Your payroll expenses will go down; when you have an accurate log of where every vehicle is at every hour of the day, you can cross reference it against employee time sheets for hours spent driving for reimbursement.

Likewise, most vehicle-tracking GPS software allows you to set a "virtual fence" which lets you tell when a vehicle has gone "out of zone" - this is good for tracking if a vehicle has made an unscheduled detour, or to track it down if it's stolen.

Finally, more and more GPS tracking software can work with a public web interface. It can be a great marketing coup for a taxicab company to have a web site that shows, as an overlay on Google maps, the location of all cabs reporting in, whether they have a fare and so on - this makes it much easier to schedule a cab pickup, or run a bus route with accurate time stamps for how far ahead or behind a bus is on its scheduled rounds.

The previous benefits listed make businesses look into investing into GPS fleet tracking as a solution to keeping costs down; it's estimated that the more accurate timekeeping versus payroll expenses can cause a typical small business with a fleet of company vehicles to save enough money to pay for the installation and software in under 90 days.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com

By: B Hopkins

GPS Fleet Tracking System: How Does Vehicle Fleet Tracking Improve Your Business?

GPS or global position system utilizes satellite signals to track location. This system has become so precise that it can pinpoint an actual location to within yards. GPS has many uses, one of which as a GPS fleet tracking system. There are several benefits of using GPS for vehicle fleet tracking.

The GPS tracking system is used with software that a dispatcher accesses from the computer. This will allow better dispatch for service technicians or delivery drivers. There are usually delays when dispatching is done using a map and judgment of the dispatcher. With the aid of the GPS fleet tracking system, dispatches are made on a timely basis thus improving quality of service.

GPS system works in most areas including metropolitan and rural areas. Using the tracking system to dispatch employees and define routes will help to keep windshield time to a minimum. It avoids drivers passing each other en-route, cutting down on fuel consumption and wasted time.

Another great benefit of using the GPS fleet tracking system is to help drivers in navigation. Without GPS tracking, drivers can waste a lot of time driving in the wrong direction, looking for streets, asking for directions or stopping to check the map. A GPS fleet tracking system provides real time navigation for the driver, thus saving time and fuel expenses.

GPS fleet tracking system can be used to ensure that your staff is doing their jobs. It can track drivers so you know their whereabouts during working hours and acts as a deterrent to those who tend to shirk.

Besides supplying real time information, GPS fleet tracking system can provide reports of historical tracking which can be beneficial to staff. If there are any complaints from customers about time of arrival or the length of time spent at the location, these concerns can be verified from past record of GPS tracking.

GPS fleet tracking system reduces the risks of vehicle theft and employee fraud. If you are utilizing it in your fleet management, you should be able to negotiate a discount with your vehicle insurance provider.

GPS fleet tracking is a great technology that helps any business to improve productivity, reduce costs and increase profitability. It is not only used for managing mobile assets but also employees in any service, delivery or sales organization. Although initial capital investment in a tracking system is high, the benefits far outweigh the costs in the long run. Some GPS suppliers offer leasing or negotiable payment installment.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com
By: Alvin Toh

GPS Tracking For Children: What You Need To Know

GPS or global positioning system is a tracking system that can keep track of location via the use of satellite systems. A GPS tracking device can easily be attached to a car, person, backpack, etc.

What is GPS tracking for children?
GPS tracking for children uses a lightweight tracking device that can attach to a backpack or clip onto pants. Some GPS tracking devices for children are worn like watches or even attached to the shoes. The GPS tracking for children allows parents to easily find a child who gets lost or wanders away. It can also be used to help locate a child that is abducted.

How does GPS tracking work?
The GPS utilizes satellite-based navigation techniques. There are a series of satellites used for this purpose which were put into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense. The signals emitted are specially coded so that the receivers can process the information and distinguish it from other information. GPS satellites are constantly circling the earth, providing precise information. The system can take the information from the signal and calculate the exact location of the user.

GPS tracking is done through various companies equipped for this service. The GPS device is purchased and programmed appropriately. Parents subscribe to a monthly user service. The fees for these services vary. The tracking device is attached to the child or kept in the child’s possession and turned on. The system can track people to within about several yards so it is quite accurate.

What can I find out from the tracking system?
That depends on the type of tracking service you get. There are some service plans that offer several “trackings” per month while other plans may offer unlimited trackings. Some can give you the tracking information through the internet or by telephone while others may provide software for your computer so that you can do the tracking yourself. Most tracking systems offer optional reports so you can see the activity on the tracking device. Real time tracking is typically more expensive.

Most parents use GPS tracking system to find a child that is lost. The technology is able to locate the street or actual address of an individual with incredible accuracy. Parents can use tracking software to find the location or call up the tracking company who can quickly provide details of the location.

What are the negatives?
For one thing, GPS tracking systems for children are expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 onwards for the device itself. Monthly service plans may cost between $25 and $100 a month. Multiple devices (for several children) definitely cost more.

GPS tracking system for children can give parents a peace of mind. However, some children, especially as they become older, may not want to use the device and they may simply turn it off. Nevertheless, it should be considered a valuable parenting tool that is particularly well suited to younger children. Don’t use the device instead of good old-fashioned parenting. Always provide ample age-appropriate supervision to your children.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com
By: Alvin Toh

Computer Time Synchronisation Using GPS

The Global Positioning System (GPS) consists of a number of orbiting satellites that provide precise positioning information for navigation purposes. Positioning is calculated by using accurate timing information and triangulation. However, the accurate timing system can also be used for computer network time synchronisation purposes. Each orbiting satellite has an onboard atomic clock that can provide highly precise time. This article describes how precise GPS timing information can be utilised to provide network timing via GPS NTP servers. It also discusses the type of equipment required to process GPS signals for time and frequency applications.

Time is referenced to Universal Coordinated Time (UTC), which is the same worldwide and does not vary with time zones. The GPS satellites continuously transmit precise time information. GPS time is not affected by leap seconds and is currently 14 seconds ahead of UTC time. GPS time can easily be adjusted to provide UTC time for computer network time synchronisation. The GPS satellites broadcast a very weak low-power radio signal. The signal has two frequencies, L1 and L2. L1 is intended as a civilian GPS band broadcast at 1575.42 MHz. L2 is not currently in operation but promises future stronger signal transmissions. The signal travels in a straight line and can pass through clouds, glass and plastics but is blocked by objects such as metal and brickwork. Therefore, ideally, a GPS antenna requires a good view of the sky. The ideal location for a GPS antenna is on rooftop with a good view of the sky. If it is impractical to locate a roof-mounted antenna, installation on the side of a building can be adequate.

The GPS system provides a subscription-free accurate timing resource. Many computer networks utilise the GPS clock as an accurate timing reference for computer synchronisation. Precise GPS NTP server systems utilise GPS reference clocks as an external synchronisation source. The GPS system can supply highly precise time and frequency information accurate to a couple of nanoseconds. This accuracy is generally more than enough for most computer network timing applications.

Most GPS receivers transmit time and positioning information in a serial format using the standard NMEA protocol. Information is transmitted as sentences of character strings. Additionally, a highly accurate timing pulse is generated which marks the beginning of each second. This timing pulse can be converted to a RS232 signal level and fed into a RS232 control line interrupt to provide a precise timing reference. When the timing pulse is combined with the NMEA output sentences, a very accurate timing reference becomes available for use by NTP servers or computer timing equipment.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com
By: David Evans

Is a GPS Fleet Tracking System Right for My Business?

You've heard the stories from your peers or competitors about how they are saving money after installing a GPS Fleet Tracking system - and now you are wondering if the time has come for you to get a GPS Fleet Tracking system for your fleet - is it worth the investment?

I've been gratified and amazed time after time over the last seven years as hundreds of my customers have experienced immediate savings and control of their fleets - they all say the same thing - "...I wish I'd done this sooner!".

When I first started installing GPS Fleet Tracking systems back at the "turn of the century" the early adopters felt like pioneers, and wanted to be the first on their block to have this cutting-edge technology. The majority of Fleet Owners waited. They missed out while their competitors saved big. Amazingly, as of this writing less than ten percent of fleet owners have installed a GPS Fleet Tracking system. Why? Simple - too much confusion. Fleet owners are bombarded with direct mail ads and telemarketing calls from salespeople selling everything from battery operated devices to GPS enabled cell phones. An in-vehicle, real time system is the only real choice. The other systems will not give you the reliable, timely information you need and are more trouble than they are worth. Besides that, the in-vehicle solutions have become very affordable and easy to install and - most importantly - almost always pay for themselves within their first ninety days!

Is a GPS Fleet Tracking system right for your business? Try to identify areas in which you are experiencing inefficiencies or un-necessary costs where a GPS Fleet Tracking system can have an immediate and lasting impact:

1. Do your drivers take their vehicles home with them? If so, are they permitted to use your vehicles for personal use? Fleet Owners are astounded when they see immediate savings on fuel, miles driven and overtime while simultaneously reducing liability as a result of unauthorized use and speeding.

2. Are your drivers paid by the hour? Do they clock in and out with a paper time card, noting the time that they start and end their day on the "honesty" system? In general, I've learned that most employees are not "out to get" their employers, but it is hard not to fudge the time card a little. Saving only ten minutes per day of time card abuse will easily pay for your system all by itself!

3. Are you concerned that your employees are doing side jobs you are not getting paid for? With a GPS Fleet Tracking system you'll get paid for every job performed by your assets.

4. Are you concerned about potential liabilities if your drivers are speeding or driving recklessly? With GPS you are virtually riding along with every driver, all day every day. Your drivers will know it and will think twice before putting your assets at risk!

These are just a few of the many ways that a GPS Fleet Tracking system can help you to - simply stated - keep MORE of the money already flowing through your company for YOURSELF! Over the past seven years I've learned that (understandably) fleet owners simply will not purchase a system unless they are absolutely convinced that it will save them much more than it costs. Once again, most Fleet Owners find that their GPS Fleet Tracking system pays for itself within the first ninety days.

I know, you still have some concerns about how to break the news to your drivers - that's normal. Your employees are like your family, right? I've learned that your best employees will embrace the system, and yes - the ones that have something to hide will fight it. In fact, you may even lose a few people - but you'll be better off without them.

As soon as your system is up and running you'll kick yourself for waiting this long - but you will also be thrilled with the increase in efficiencies and decrease in costs to manage your fleet.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com
By: Don Mastrangelo

Eagle Seachamp - Big Screen, Big Color Gps Fish Finder

You get big screen, big color performance with a WAAS GPS-Chartplotter with Dual Frequency Sounder

The Eagle Sea Champ 1000C is a great tool. Yes, we can not say it any simpler! It offers you some of the best features in fish finding gear. You will be impressed with its precision and its high quality as well. Here, let’s take a look at some of the features that makes this fishfinder something similar to the perfect tool. Here are some of the Sea Champ's features.

You can start by checking out the Eagle Sea Champ's awesome display. It is six inches big, just about the right size for easy viewing as you relax on your boat. It also has other features on the display that make it a good one including ultra bright for easy viewing in almost any type of light, 256 colors active matrix TFT LCD, high definition resolution and fluorescent cold cathode backlit screen and keypad. So, what does all of that give you? It delivers a clear picture that is easy to read. It gives you a picture that you can react to, meaning that you can see what type of fish are down there, the type of structure and even the size of the fish so that you can react and do what you need to, to get the big catch on board! It can be used in just about any light including at night!

Still, there is more. The Eagle Sea Champ also features some of the best in sonar. It has the capability of going 1500 feet down making it a great distance fishfinding unit. It's technology separates fish from nearby structures or the bottom which will help you determine not just that something is there but what is there. This helps you decide if it’s something you should go after or not.

Still, there is much more. The GPS + WASS reception uses satellite technology to pinpoint your location to a few yards. This will help you to know where you are and where you need to go. You won’t get lost if you turn around too many times. All in all, this Sea Champ will deliver for you all of the features that you need to capture the fish that you need and want!

Go home with a full cooler thanks to this awesome tool!
By: Cinneide

Gps Vehicle Tracking - A Guide To The Tools Available

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.

Article Source: http://www.a-zz.com

Steve Armstrong produces www.gps-vehicle-tracking-pa.com which is full of information on GPS vehicle tracking