GPS ROI — The $500 Padlock
Many folks query me about where or how they can try out GPS tracking or how they can get into it on a short-term, special use basis. They can see how they might get a good Return On Investment (ROI) but they just can’t make the time to work with a provider and carefully analyze the needs of their fleet.
Well, shooting from the hip is never the way to the best score on the target range … Ready, Fire, Aim is not the best algorithm … but it can be done and it works when you need to do something ad hoc or short term. here are two offerings along with my thoughts on their usefulness and long term value.
DeWALT MOBILELOCKâ„¢
Sold and backed by one of the oldest and most respected U.S. tool makers this is a neat little device that can be mounted on and item you want to alarm and/or control usage for.
Pros:
- Completely self-contained
- Simple operation - monitor on a web site
- backed by a big-name retailer
- Economical monthly service plans
- Easily reusable
Cons:
- Limited to cell phone coverage area
- Easy to defeat with a piece of tinfoil or a hammer
- Monthly plans not very flexible, frequent locates will add rapidly to cost
- Short battery life … a few weeks maximum
Axon AXTracker
Pros:
- Completely self-contained
- Simple operation - monitor on a web site
- Easily reusable
- Economical monthly service plans
- Very long battery life, 7 years is typical
- read this again — near world-wide coverage
Cons:
- Can’t buy one at the tool store
- Easy to defeat with apiece of tinfoil or a hammer
- Both pro and con … much more flexibility means more uses but more to learn about
This is a new experiment for me, posting directly on actual products. If you like it, comment or email or call me (1-719-423-8872). if you don’t like it, comment or call twice *smile*