Types of Tracking Devices
The concept of tracking goods, people and animals has long been used by humans as a method to control their surroundings. Early tracking devices--such as the astrolabe and compasses--were used to help people track the movement of heavenly bodies. Modern technology has given people the ability to track nearly anything, provided it either contains a device or is in a certain proximity.
GPS
The Global Positioning System uses a series of roughly 32 satellites located in medium Earth orbit to triangulate the position of an object. While it was developed by the US Air Force, it was put into civilian use in the early 21st century.
RFID
Radio-frequency identification tags is one of the easiest and smallest devices that can be installed in nearly any component to enable tracking. These are commonly seen in retail items for warehouse management.
RSSI
Received Signal Strength Indication is a tracking system that uses real time locating technology to identify the position of an object or person. RSSI features wireless technology that can be installed into name badges or items.
LBS
Location-based service is the type of tracking device used to make a person's cell phone reveal a location. Similar to GPS, this system can be installed in nearly any communications device or vehicle.
Inertia
Inertial tracking devices are mechanical in nature and use gyroscopes to detect a change in orientation. These are fast and accurate, but limited in the distance in which they can identify movement.
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