Technology Background

GPS

Regardless of location or weather, Global Positioning System satellite signals can show your exact position on Earth any time of day or night with unmatched precision. The system continuously sends signals to ground stations that monitor and control operations; GPS is by far the world’s most sophisticated and accurate navigation system available today.

Wi-Fi

Short for Wireless Fidelity, Wi-Fi is any wireless networking technology system that uses the IEEE’s 802.11 standard. Globally employed, Wi-Fi networks operate with computer-based network cards, wireless routers, and a cable or DSL modem. Access points typically reach 200 feet (or 61 meters), although distances of 100 feet or less produce optimal results.

GPRS Cellular

The standard for wireless communications, General Packet Radio Service efficiently uses limited bandwidths by allowing cellular devices to send and receive data over an Internet Protocol (IP)-based network. By running at speeds up to 115 Kbps (kilobits per second), GPRS is preferred over the 9.6 Kbps speeds delivered by GSM (Global System for Mobile communications).

Iridium Satellite

The Iridium satellite constellation consists of 66 active communication satellites that permit worldwide voice and data transmission. This unique network covers the entire Earth, including oceans, airways, and Polar Regions.

aRFID

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification, a system of using tags that communicate via radio waves, automatically transmitting data necessary to identify an object, person, or animal. RFID is comprised of an integrated circuit used for storing and processing data, an antenna necessary for data transmission, and other special functions.

The two most common types of RFID tags are active and passive. While both comprise an object that can be placed on (or inside) the item being tracked, aRFID (Active Radio Frequency Identification) houses an internal power supply that yields the following benefits:

• More reliable communication
• Ability to conduct reader sessions
• Transmit at higher power level
• Productive in challenging environments, such as:
  • humidity
  • sprays
  • dampening targets (humans and cattle contain mostly water)
  • reflective targets (metal from shipping containers, vehicles)
  • longer distances
• Capable of providing consistent data regarding temperature, humidity, shock, vibration, and more