Which GPS Tracking Device is right for you? See the difference between satellite and cellular tracking devices that provide Global Traceability

Asset tracking devices are an essential part of most global industries, including transportation, construction, logistics, navigation, and security. With advanced tracking technology so widely available, it only makes sense to track everything you can for high traceability and accountability. Powered equipment, non-powered equipment, and vehicles are all commonly tracked. 

But you might be wondering—what kind of GPS tracking device is right for your assets? To determine the answer, it is important to understand the key differences between the three main types of tracking devices: satellite, global, and cellular tracking devices. 

Each type of tracking device has unique advantages that make them best suited to certain applications. For example, real-time asset tracking may be of top importance for some operations, while others might prioritize tracking other types of data. Read on to discover what tracking device is ideal for your application. 

Satellite Tracking Devices

GPS satellite tracking functions through a network of advanced devices including satellites, receivers, transmitters, and computers. Satellite tracking devices record location information very frequently, as often as every five seconds. This creates a wealth of information that is perfect for applications that benefit from or require accurate timestamps. 

If your assets travel all over the world, you need a tracking device that can keep up with your operations. Not every type of tracking technology is reliable or available internationally or in remote locations. For example, cellular tracking devices rely on cell towers, so they are not ideal for tracking equipment that ventures into remote locations.

GPS uses Global Positioning Satellites to triangulate the position of the tracking device attached to your asset to determine its exact location. This makes global GPS tracking devices the best choice for international shipping and cargo, wildlife tracking, and any other type of tracking that requires reliable reporting from anywhere on the globe.

Global satellite trackers are a great option for any asset that requires frequent location reporting. 

For example, some ideal applications for Geoforce’s GT2s satellite tracker device include, but not limited to:

• Tanks
• Rail cars
• Trailers
• Shipping containers
• Frac tanks
• Cargo units
• Skimmers
• ISO containers
• Baskets
• Sand traps
• Cable spools
• Acid tanks
• IBC tanks
• Fuel tanks

All of Geoforce’s satellite tracking devices are designed to endure even the most challenging conditions. You can rely on our rugged asset trackers to stay functional no matter the environment. 

Cellular Tracking Devices

Cellular tracking devices use cellular transmissions to report information about the location of your asset. These reports are transmitted anywhere from every five to ten minutes to real-time reports.

Cellular tracking devices are excellent for recording relevant statistics about the usage of your assets in addition to location. For example, Geoforce’s VT1 Cellular Vehicle Tracker records vehicle speed, odometer mileage, run time, and unsafe driving. These capabilities make it a great choice for fleet managers looking to bolster the safety of their drivers while optimizing efficiency.

Geoforce’s AT1 Cellular Asset Tracker is a battery-powered cellular tracking device. With flexible hybrid tracking capabilities, the AT1 displays your asset’s location whether it is inside or outside. This makes it a perfect option for assets where you want flexibility with where you place the physical tracking device. In this case, location will not affect the efficacy of the device. 

Geoforce Asset Tracking

Geoforce is here to make field operations simple. Our cloud-based track and trace system and rugged GPS tracking devices transform the way you manage your valuable assets, from powered equipment to vehicles.