A tracking device is an electronic unit designed to broadcast its location, either in response to a signal or at set intervals. Tracking devices can allow you to monitor merchandise, locate endangered animals, or help rescue workers find you in an emergency.
RFID – Radio-frequency identification, or RFID, uses small tags containing a microchip or transistor with encoded information and an antenna for receiving and sending signals.
Radio Tracking – By adding a power source to an RFID tracker, you can greatly increase the range its signal will travel. These “active” trackers can respond to a wide-band scanning signal, or you can set them to go off periodically for long-term tracking purposes.
GPS and Satellite Tracking – The advent of the Global Positioning System has led to the development of incredibly accurate tracking devices. A GPS receiver compares signals from a network of satellites overhead to pinpoint its location to within a few meters, providing real-time positional data.
Cell-Phone Triangulation – Even if your cell phone is not GPS enabled, it may contain technology designed to help the provider track the device.
