How Asset Trackers Have Changed for the Better

Posted by John Elsner on

Asset tracking used on remote equipment has come a long way in the last five years.

With advancements in technology and increased demand, battery-powered asset tracking devices have become more reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how battery-powered asset tracking has evolved in the last five years and the impact this has had on businesses and individuals.

Here Are 6 Ways Asset Trackers Have Changed in the Last 5 Years
Increased Battery Life: One of the biggest changes in battery-powered asset tracking over the past five years has been the improvement in battery life. With the development of more efficient power management techniques and the use of low-power components, tracking devices can now operate for longer periods of time on a single battery charge. This has made it possible for businesses to track their assets more effectively and for longer periods of time.
   
Enhanced Data Collection: Advances in technology have also made it possible to collect more data from battery-powered asset tracking devices. With the ability to collect data on factors such as location, temperature, humidity, and motion, businesses can now monitor the performance of their assets more effectively and make more informed decisions about their use and maintenance.
   
Bluetooth: Another big change in asset tracking over the past five years has been the integration of Bluetooth receivers into the devices. Many trackers now can receive and relay Bluetooth sensor data from remote equipment within range. This has led to the development of sophisticated software applications to collect and analyze this data, providing organizations with real-time insights into the performance of their assets and nearby equipment.
   
Improved Connectivity: The widespread availability of low-cost cellular and satellite connectivity has made it easier for businesses to connect asset tracking devices to the internet. This has improved the accuracy and reliability of data collection and has made it possible for businesses to track their assets from anywhere, at any time.
   
Cost Savings: The combination of increased battery life, decreasing prices, and improved connectivity has made battery-powered asset tracking more cost-effective for businesses.  By reducing the need for frequent battery replacements and improving the quality and price of data collection, businesses afford to track less expensive equipment.
   
User-Friendly Designs: With the development of smaller and lighter designs, tracking devices are now easier to install and use. Additionally, the rise of mobile applications has made it possible for businesses to monitor their assets from their smartphones and tablets, providing them with real-time insights into the performance of their assets.

In conclusion, battery-powered asset tracking has come a long way in the last five years, providing businesses and individuals with more reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly solutions for monitoring their assets. With the continued growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increasing popularity of cloud computing, the technology behind battery-powered asset tracking is sure to continue evolving, providing even more powerful solutions for businesses and individuals.

Interested in learning more about Pedigree Technologies and our asset tracking solutions? Contact us today!

Supplementing GPS Trackers with Bluetooth Tags

Posted by John Elsner on

Bluetooth tags, also known as beacons, are small, low-power devices that use Bluetooth technology to communicate with other devices.

Blog Header - Bluetooth Tags Construction

They are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries as a supplement to GPS trackers.  Bluetooth tags are particularly useful for construction companies or any company with a lot of remote assets.

One of the biggest advantages of Bluetooth tags is their ability to pinpoint the location of assets at a fraction of the cost of GPS trackers.  They do not require any additional infrastructure or software to function easing the burden of tracking equipment and attachments in yards or job sites. 

Another advantage of Bluetooth tags is they can be used to augment data on equipment usage, helping companies to make informed decisions about how to improve their operations. For example, usage data might lead to more accurate customer billing or better maintenance scheduling.

Bluetooth tags are also incredibly easy to install and use. They can be attached to assets using industrial tape, adhesive or traditional screws, and the information they collect can be accessed using a smartphone, tablet, or a GPS tracker with built-in Bluetooth. This means that companies can start using Bluetooth tags with minimal setup and training.

Finally, Bluetooth tags are much smaller than GPS trackers making them easier to attach to assets and more discreet.  And they typically have a longer battery life than GPS trackers.  For example, a Bluetooth tag as small as the diameter of a quarter can last 5 years.

Bluetooth tags are not perfect.  Like the consumer devices used to track keys, they do not have a cellular connection and only work in concert with a phone or another GPS device.  But because they are inexpensive, they can complement a mixed-fleet asset management strategy where it’s important to ensure that all assets are being used efficiently and effectively.

Bottom line…Bluetooth tags are better suited for certain asset management applications due to their size, cost, and battery life.

Interested in learning more about Pedigree Technologies and our Bluetooth Tag solutions? Contact us today!

Bluetooth Tag Diagram

Announcing Two New Tracking Tags from Pedigree Technologies

Posted by Pedigree Technologies on

Pedigree Technologies is Offering Two New Tracking Tags Increasing Visibility into Companies’ Assets at a Fraction of the Cost

FARGO, N.D., Sept. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Pedigree Technologies announces the addition of two new Tracking Tags to its OneView platform. By attaching to outdoor tools, equipment, and remote assets, these Bluetooth® tags offer customers increased visibility at a fraction of the cost of GPS devices. The tracking tags will connect and sync with truck and trailer GPS devices, Pedigree applications on handsets and tablets, Pedigree’s Cab-Mate ELD, and yard-based receivers.

Businesses can only make money if they deploy their equipment and tools efficiently. Pedigree’s Tracking Tags are one tool thBluetooth Tag Diagramat solves the dilemma of “Where’s my stuff”. These tags are far less expensive than GPS trackers, so monitoring your lower-valued assets becomes affordable. Bluetooth tags are small, weatherproof, long battery-life devices that are quickly installed on most anything including tools, ladders, light equipment, bins, and iron attachments.

Using Bluetooth wireless signals, the tags repeatedly transmit messages with an asset’s unique identifier. These signals are picked up and displayed on the OneView platform along with other vehicle- and asset-based GPS devices that are being monitored. The OneView platform can also display common industrial tool tags from leading manufacturers.

The Tags are purpose-built for the harsh environments found in the industries Pedigree serves: transportation, construction, oil and gas, and heavy equipment. The PT TAG 20 and PT TAG 5 each have a signal range of up to 200 meters. Both models are designed for a long-life of consistent operation with batteries that last 20 and 5 years, respectively. Installation of these small, compact devices is quick and simple.

Pedigree Technologies is challenging the telematics status quo. Traditional solutions overlook the complex operating environments of Heartland industries such as transportation, oil & gas, and heavy equipment. These enterprises require a 360-degree view into all service and supply chain assets, not just fleets.  Using telematics as a foundation, we integrate and layer smart technologies to offer a more expansive view into assets, inventory, and business-critical systems. The power of Pedigree is to connect the unconnected, all through a single pane of glass.

Key solutions include ELDs, asset tracking, fleet management, maintenance, dispatching, IoT sensors, and more. Pedigree provides 24x7x365 domestic customer service and employs more than 90 professionals across the country. The company was founded in 2004 and is based in Fargo, North Dakota. For more information about Pedigree Technologies visit PedigreeTechnologies.com or to learn more about Bluetooth Tags read, “Where’s My Stuff?” – Listen to Your Bluetooth® Tags. For more information about this release or Pedigree Technologies, please contact Deidra Schwindt at Deidra.Schwindt@PedigreeTechnologies.com.