Each year in the US, millions of cars are lost due to theft. These statistics should be an eye-opener if you still use your vehicle without a tracker. While people are most familiar with GPS-based tracking devices, other methods also exist that can help you beat thieves hands down.
Using GPS alternative methods has proved effective in combating motor vehicle theft and other vices. They are usable independently or complement your existing GPS tracking. Whether looking for a way to track your personal or company vehicles, this guide offers some of the best techniques to track your car.
Why Invest in a Vehicle Tracking System?
There are various reasons why you should invest in a reliable vehicle monitoring system from RAM tracking. The main reason is to protect vehicles from theft since they offer real-time monitoring.
Additionally, tracking helps monitor driving habits, delivery time, and fuel usage, among others. Whether you are an individual or a company, tracking your vehicles should be your ultimate policy to be on the safe side.
7 Effective Techniques for Keeping an Eye on Your Vehicle
The following are effective methods ways you can use to track your vehicles.
1. GPS tracking device
GPS tracking systems are the most common way people track their vehicles. The technology uses a series of satellites to offer the accurate location of your car. GPS utilizes radio frequencies and doesn’t require a GSM or any other mobile network. Therefore, it’s available worldwide, including the remotest parts, under all weather conditions, day and night.
The integration of GPS in navigational maps helps pinpoint accurate locations. Additionally, GPS trackers are designed to transmit other vehicle details such as speed, driving patterns, and others. The ability of these devices to send additional data other than locations depends on the service provider.
Some providers, such as RAM tracking, provide comprehensive GPS tracking systems with features like live tracking, average speed, and distance traveled.
2. Livestreaming dash cameras
Live-streaming dash cameras are one of the alternatives to GPS. These compact cameras are fitted on vehicles for real-time video and photo recording. Usually, the devices are simple to install and don’t need an expert. Some are designed to attach to the rearview mirror, windshield, or dashboard.
Usually, the cameras come with inbuilt GPS relays images and videos with geolocation coordinates and timestamps. It is, therefore, easy to know the location of your vehicle at any given moment. Also, most streaming dash cameras have HD video/Photo, audio, and night vision recording capabilities.
3. Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) plugin devices
OBS is a free recording software with offline video recording and live streaming functions. The devices have inbuilt geolocation functions that let you know where the vehicle is. Besides, the devices allow you to access vehicle speed, velocity, and warning speed, among others.
Unlike hardwired devices, OBS devices are plugged into OBD ports. The simplicity of use and accurate geolocation make them excellent alternatives to other tracking mechanisms.
4. In-vehicle smartphone integration system
Modern vehicles come with a mobile phone integration system whereby you can mirror your smartphone for entertainment and other purposes. They allow connectivity through the use of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Once connected, you can use the smartphone for entertainment or controlling your vehicle.
When a smartphone is connected to a vehicle’s infotainment system, it’s easy to track it. Thus, as long as the driver’s phone is connected, it’s possible to track and know the location of your car.
5. Radio Frequency Transmission
RF tracking is one of the ways that you can track your vehicle. Unlike GPS devices, RF uses a vehicle locator unit (VLU), which is usually inactive and only activated when the location is needed. The activation is done remotely, allowing you to know the exact location of your vehicle. Like GPS, radio frequency tracking technology isn’t dependent on mobile networks.
6. Vehicle Computer Diagnostic Software
As technology advances, people can now diagnose vehicle issues using smartphones. The ability to connect and synchronize your car computer system with your smartphone gives you more than problem detection.
Once connected, it’s possible to access the real-time condition of the vehicle. As a result, most companies and individual are using this method to track their cars. Most software and apps are free for Android and iPhone users; hence, they are an easy way to keep in touch with your vehicles.
7. SIM card tracking
Sim cards are valuable when it comes to vehicle and other kind of tracking. The process involves using a SIM card and supported tracker, which allows you to monitor the location of your car. The SIM works by sharing the coordinates through communication with the nearest tower. Through this, it’s possible to know the location of your vehicle.
Using SIM for tracking purposes is simple and doesn’t need sophisticated equipment. If the person driving the vehicle has a phone, it is easy to track the car. Also, there are monitoring devices that use SIM, which can be fitted in cars to assist in tracking in case of theft
Conclusion
Vehicle tracking is achievable using different approaches. You don’t have to install expensive equipment to monitor your car effectively. Some are as cheap as downloading software, and you can monitor your vehicle around the clock. Various choices exist whether you are looking for a tracking solution for personal or company cars.
