GPS tracking comes in many forms and variations. Ever since President Reagan signed the directive making GPS freely available for civilian use, private-sector GPS tracking manufacturers have been striving to improve the technology. One of the original pioneers in this market is LandAirSea Systems out of Woodstock, IL. The early years of GPS tracking (1993 – 2000) were extremely challenging on many fronts. Some of these included:
• Limited microprocessor speed and effectiveness
• Intentional GPS signal deviation for military protection purposes
• Digital mapping quality and availability (non-satellite)
• Personal computing revolution was in its infancy stage
• Pre-internet market
• Cost-prohibitive telematics (cellular) technology
Surviving manufacturers, such as LandAirSea, not only understood and appreciated the evolution of the above referenced challenges but systematically integrated these to bring us the devices we see today. However, today’s market is flooded with devices that lack the sensitivity and performance requirements as a compromise to be the low-cost alternative. True real-time GPS tracking solutions require an intimate knowledge of market expectations, evolving technology, quality control, and scale-ability. SilverCloud is a not only a culmination of these factors but exceeds the standards of all market users. LandAirSea has been the manufacturer of choice for law enforcement agencies for years. The demand for reliability, sensitivity, and performance within the law enforcement community has been extended to all LandAirSea products. Therefore, the consumer and business owner recognize in advance that they are purchasing only the finest solutions available in the market. Because of this, TriStar Security has standardized on the LandAirSea line of GPS tracking products through its www.gpstrackingexpert.com website. Let’s take a closer look at the flagship real-time devices manufactured by LandAirSea and offered by TriStar Security known as the SilverCloud series. There are two variations of the SilverCloud series; the SilverCloud portable and the SilverCloud Sync. Each model has a specific set of advantages and purpose. These variations are more pronounced on how they are deployed as opposed to how they operate.
SilverCloud Client Access
After purchasing their SilverCloud device, customers select login credentials during the activation process and use these as their password protected access to live or historical GPS tracking. This log in screen is provided on the home page of the LandAirSea website. Once logged in, the user is immediately taken to the last know position of the vehicle(s) on a hi-res satellite map whether these are currently in motion or parked. If the vehicle(s) are moving, they will automatically reposition in the increment set on the account. If the vehicle is parked, the time stamp will identify the time of arrival.
In addition to live reporting positions, the SilverCloud series provides:
• High-resolution Google Satellite Mapping
• Split screen 2D/3D viewing
• Comprehensive Report Center
• Text and email alerts for location (geo-fencing), speed, battery status, and stops
• Routing utility
• Mobile device access – mobile browser and iPhone app
• Patent-pending ShareSpot allowing users to post their live tracking on a 3rd party website
From an operational standpoint, the SilverCloud Portable and the SilverCloud Sync have similar capabilities. There are subtle operational differences but the choice of which model to choose depends on how the device is going to be used. Here is a brief breakdown of each model. More information can be viewed at www.gpstrackingexpert.com.
SilverCloud Portable
The SilverCloud portable is a self-contained lithium-ion powered tracking device designed for those who need portability or flexibility of installation. Even though it is a portable unit, an optional hardwire kit can be purchased to be wired to the vehicle’s 12V power source. The ingenious design of the SilverCloud power port and hard-wire kit gives the user permanent placement if needed but a simple unplug removes the unit fully charged for immediate portability.
Many users may or may not have access to the inside of the vehicle. An additional waterproof magnetic mount is available if needed. Since portability is dependent upon the battery life, users need to understand the condition and balance of the battery while in use. The SilverCloud will continuously report its battery condition as a percentage of battery life upon updates. In addition, alerts can be set up to identify when the battery has reached a certain level allowing the user to retrieve the device in plenty of time for a recharge.
SilverCloud Sync
For users that have access to inside the vehicle and prefer a hands-off approach, the SilverCloud Sync is the ideal solution. The ultimate in “plug and play”, the SilverCloud Sync uses the vehicle’s OBD (On Board Diagnostic) port standard on all vehicles after 1996. Users do not have to concern themselves with battery condition, recharging, or other factors common to portability. Once the device is plugged into the OBD port (located near the steering column) the device is powered and instructed to transmit its positions in the increments identified in the activation process. Additional features the SilverCloud Sync provides comes from the vehicle’s on-board computer. This includes excessive breaking, ignition status, rapid acceleration, tampering warnings, etc.
Regardless of which SilverCloud device you choose, you are selecting a product that exceeds professional standards and pushes the technological envelope. GPS Tracking Expert representatives are standing by to answer any questions and can even provide live desktop to desktop demonstrations.
