Global positioning system (GPS) software from UK manufacturer ALK Technologies, of London, brings mobile navigation devices up to speed. Whether installed on a smart phone or a mobile Internet device or whether used by cyclists, pedestrians or motorists, this solution makes it easy to find the best route.The software not only comprises the latest three dimension (3D) technology, but also recognises voice commands, enabling the user to control the device by voice alone.

The view of the streets is very realistic and the software is automatically updated with information about fuel prices, traffic jams and the weather. Pedestrians will also be pleased to know that even minor footpaths are shown.

Waterproof GPS vehicle tracker

At CeBIT 2009, Taiwanese manufacturer Arknav International Inc presented the latest version of the GPS tracker with which one can be sure one's vehicle does not go off the radar. The new waterproof tracking transmitter for vehicle positioning can be used for motorcycles, motorboats, caravans and other outdoor equipment. This device not only helps locate a vehicle through the GPS, but also provides plenty of other useful functions. It does not rely on external power sources and will still function after being in 'sleep' mode for two to three years.

There is a panic button to alert rescue coordination centres. In addition, the device automatically sends an alarm if it is tampered with. Antitheft technology is also incorporated in the device. Vehicle engines can be switched off remotely by SMS. This vehicle location device is designed to perform even in the harshest conditions.

Vehicle Tracking on a Small Budget

Vehicle tracking does not always have to be complex and cost intensive. With a GPS logger, a kind of electronic tachogaph, the actual geographic location of a vehicle is recorded periodically so that the device can log the actual route travelled. At CeBIT 2009, Arknav International presented a GPS data logger that constitutes a sensible investment even for small companies.

The data is stored on an SD card. Unlike some of its competitors, this GPS logger needs neither a Universal Serial Bus-enabled handsets driver nor any configuration software. When connected to a personal computer, the computer simply recognises the logger as a mass storage device. The data can subsequently be processed with most geotagging software packages. The solution can be integrated into Google Maps and is particularly suitable for smaller businesses that do not have a big vehicle-tracking budget.

Fleet Monitoring

With fleet monitoring, not only can vehicle owners plan and coordinate operations as required – they can also reduce costs if their fleet management system is well structured. A small box, the G-Force Recorder, which was presented by Arknav International, is an extension to the GPS tracker and records vehicle data. The device comprises a recorder box and a 3-D sensor that sends data wirelessly to the recorder.

All GPS data and acceleration values are then stored on an SD card and the recorder gives each entry a timestamp. The sensor must be precisely aligned, both horizontally and vertically, when fitted to the vehicle, but even so, installation is far from complicated. Arknav considers this recorder to be an ideal extension to a vehicle positioning system.

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