Advanced Features of a Vehicle Tracking System

We have covered the standard features of tracking systems and in this article I will attempt to explain the more advanced features. Many of these features have been developed to benefit companies offering particular services but the fact the costs continue to become lower means that they are able to benefit a whole range of companies.

Geo Fence/POI/Ring Fence/Landmark

What’s the difference between them? – Not much. Depending on the tracking provider you may encounter any one of these terms or all of them. Most tracking applications allow a user to name an address/location on the tracking map that’s relevant to their business this feature is called a POI (Point of Interest) or a Landmark. When a vehicle/asset is within a predetermined radius of the POI application will display the name and report that vehicle at being at the POI.

A Geo Fence/Ring Fence is just like a POI but not only does a Geo Fence provide a name to an area on a map but it also monitors that location to provide real time alerts when a vehicle enters or exits the area. This feature is commonly set up around employee’s home addresses as well many others.

Vehicle Servicing

Many tracking systems include an in-application Odometer/Mileage counter that has the vehicles mileage entered when the unit is first installed. Some tracking systems allow the user to enter vehicle servicing information that provides reminders/prompts such as: due date of next vehicle service, due mileage of next vehicle service and vehicle tax renewal notices.

Driver ID

Many tracking companies offer Driver ID systems. They do not all work in the same way but serve the same purpose. A Driver ID system requires drivers to carry a device such as a RF (Radio Frequency) tag, key card or delta key (electronic key – often seen used in restaurants for staff to access the till). When this key is detected by the on board tracking device it will report in real time and record which employee is driving the vehicle. Driver ID systems can be setup so that the vehicle is immobilised unless a key/tag is detected to protect the vehicle from being driven by an ‘unknown’ driver. This system has been developed for companies that have multiple staff using different vehicles.

Temperature Monitoring

This device is simply a sensor that is fitted into a vehicle or trailer that monitors the temperature of the environment it is fitted in. Real time alerts in the form of SMS, email and in-application are used to notify when temperatures rise or fall below specified temperatures ensuring immediate action can be taken should a problem occur.

Panic Button

A Panic Button is a switch that is fitted in a vehicle that when pressed the tracking system will raise an alert. This alert can come in the form of an SMS, email or within the application itself. This feature is often used by companies to increase the security of their vehicle and the safety of their drivers.

MDT (Mobile Data Terminal)

This device is a screen that is mounted within clear view of the driver. It allows 2 way messaging between the driver the control centre/office. Many MDT devices allow pre-programmed messages to be stored which makes sending the communications quick and safe for the driver. The devices are very well suited for companies that have the need for a lot of communication with their drivers.