GPS Model 1

As an alternative to utilizing GPS to track employees, customers can use a bar code scanner attachment to track their employees from point-to-point by having them submit a simple record on their wireless device, which the wireless network will mark with a date and time stamp.

Additional note – this solution is especially ideal for indoor tracking (malls, event centers, stores) as many phones experience difficulty retrieving a GPS fix indoors.

Bar code adaptor for the Motorola handset (i58sr or i88) about $200 each or the bar code adaptor for the BlackBerry wireless device about $150 each.

Minimal

GPS Model 2

Westlake field forms created with AirMobility.Net captures GPS coordinates at the time of submission.

A wireless device that supports J2ME and a GPS chip

Optional - basic GPS software ($240.00/copy).

Minimal to none.

GPS Model 3

Similar to how 911 services utilize triangulation to locate cell phone callers during an emergency. This technology is now available to the development community. Benefits include not needing the device to have a formal GPS fix; rather, if your device is in coverage, the cell towers based on signal strength from your phone can provide a general location of where you are (typically within 75 to 150 feet). Limitations: most carriers limit GPS updates to no more than every five to ten minutes.

Optional - Basic GPS software ($240/copy).

None

GPS Model 4

To ensure an employee is at a particular location at a particular time (regular retail visits, hospital visits, etc.), GPS can be used without maps. The fixed location is compared to the location in which the data was submitted and the customer selects the distance that is acceptable as within range. Email is sent to management if any rep on any visit is out of range.

Often requires minimal custom development services

None

GPS Model 5

Software on the handheld device gathers GPS information in almost real time (every 5 seconds, every 10 seconds, etc.). In this model, calculations for direction, speed, mileage, idle time, etc. can be accounted for. On a regular interval, the program will submit all GPS locations with their corresponding date and time stamp. This can also be accommodating in the triangulation method with less accurate results.

Often requires minimal custom development services depending on specific needs

The interval in which data is collected will directly affect data plans on some devices and services.

GPS Model 6

Some services offer online mapping of GPS data collected versus in a Windows based software application.

Services range from $25.00 to $60.00 over and above data services

1. When used with GPS collection such as the GPS Model 4, no additional data fees should be expected from the carrier.

2. If used with GPS Model 5, additional fees may apply.