SPOT Trace: A New Tracking System For Your Toys
Anti-theft and tracking systems have existed for many years. They are rarely bought by choice, but usually because an insurance company requires them, especially for high-risk vehicles. These systems are mounted in the vehicle at all times and only the manufacturers can start the tracking in case of theft. In short, except for a lower insurance premium, they bring very little to the owners.
Enter SPOT Trace, a new portable device that allows you to track your valuable piece of machinery such as a car, boat, ATV, snowmobile or commercial vehicle. The device - which resembles a pager - can be placed anywhere around a vehicle and operates from a satellite link. It can be relatively well hidden since the signals pierce fabric, plastic, metal and fiberglass.
When the vehicle in which it is installed moves, a message is sent to you via email to let you know. You simply login with your computer or smart phone to the manufacturer's website to track it. It will also be possible to follow the movements of the device via Google Maps. You can choose how often to send reports: every 2½, 5, 10, 30 or 60 minutes.
A permanent installation is a bit tricky since it uses four AAA rechargeable batteries which will eventually run out. It can be continuously connected to a power source but it then becomes much easier to spot.
The price? $119.99 for the device plus a monthly fee for the tracking service - about $100 per year.
