Some of the most popular security devices are GPS trackers. These provide peace of mind by giving you a glimpse into what is taking place when you are not around. You can keep an eye on the location of vehicles, people, and even pets with the help of gps devices.
The potential to locate someone who does not know they are being tracked is the stuff that spy movies are made of and it can be difficult to tell fact from fiction when it comes to these intriguing little devices. Having the facts straight about GPS trackers will help you shop for the devices that will be most useful to you and will prevent you from buying into false claims from an unethical salesperson.
The size of a tracking device
You might get the impression from TV cop shows that a GPS vehicle tracking system is very tiny, only about the size of a coin or button. Such a device could be tucked in a pocket or dropped in a bag without anyone being the wiser. In reality a GPS device is closer to the size and weight of a cell phone; more expensive models will fit comfortably in the palm of your hand but are still much larger than a coin.Why does a tracker need to be so large? The answer is battery life. Many of the most popular GPS trackers on the market are powered by rechargeable batteries. They are used to track sporadic, rather than constant, activity; such a device will power down during periods of inactivity and power up when it senses motion.
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This feature conserves battery life and allows a device to go longer between full charges. The larger the device is, the longer the battery life is likely to be.
Other power options
Some trackers are intended for more constant use. To prevent the batteries from being quickly exhausted such a device would be hardwired into an electrical system. These devices are typically used in vehicles. A mechanic will connect the device to the vehicle’s own electrical system. Once installed, the tracker will pull a small amount of power from the battery, though not so much that normal vehicle function is compromised.Will it be obvious?
Some people purchase GPS trackers to keep track of wayward spouses, dishonest teenagers, or employees under suspicion. Though the weight of mobile GPS trackers would be noticed if tucked into a coat pocket they could easily be slipped into a backpack, briefcase, tool bag, or other bag that already has items in it. Some of these mobile trackers have magnets and so can be attached to a vehicle’s undercarriage. No one need be any wiser.GPS tracking devices may not be capable of the dramatic functions seen in the movies or on TV but they can do a lot of useful things. Even a small tracker can help you keep track of what is most important to you and can alert you to dishonest activity. Your small investment can have a big return.
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Article courtesy of BrickHouse Security, follow them on Twitter @BrickHousesecur or read the Brickhouse Security Blog for more Industry news and updates on the latest home security and personal surveilance items.