Frequently Asked Questions

	What is the TRACPOINT Solution? TRACPOINT combines the power of satellite based GPS and wireless networking to give dispatchers and individuals alike the ability to track and monitor their mobile assets from any computer connected to the Internet.  The TRACPOINT system consists of a rugged GPS receiver and wireless modem that transmits accurate GPS coordinates to our TRACPOINT server.  Then, authorized users can access that data on any internet-enabled PC using Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or later. Location and path information is available in map form, also in a variety of print-ready report formats.
	How Does GPS Work? GPS stands for Global Positioning System. The GPS receiver has a small antenna that receives signals from a constellation of GPS satellites. Using the timing of signal reception from multiple satellites, the receiver calculates its own position, speed and elevation. GPS satellite signals are transmitted free of charge by the U.S. Government. GPS receivers come in all shapes and sizes suitable for boating, wilderness hiking and other outdoor activities. The TRACPOINT solution combines a GPS receiver with a wireless modem. The radio transmits GPS-calculated positions back over a wireless network. Location and course data is then uploaded to the TRACPOINTweb site. Authorized users monitor vehicle movement on maps and reports displaying route information, stop location/ duration and other valuable information.
	Is the TRACPOINT solution appropriate any size of fleets? Yes. TRACPOINT requires no up-front investment in servers or software, so the TRACPOINT service is equally cost-effective for one to one million!
	Is TRACPOINT map and report information real-time? Almost. The in-vehicle TRACPOINT unit transmits GPS position data to the TRACPOINT servers, which in turn updates your TRACPOINT web pages. Updates are transmitted at standard intervals. This provides timely location updates, while avoiding the data-overload problems that come with continuous position updates. The TRACPOINT web site maps display asset position as updates are received. You control settings for how often the maps update. So depending on how frequently maps update - also depending on when vehicle reports were last received - location data can be virtually real-time!
	What hardware and/or software do I need to use my TRACPOINT solution? The hardware consists of a small hardware unit installed in each mobile or fixed asset you want to track. Negligible power - drawn from the vehicle's own electrical system - is used. The hardware unit includes an integrated GPS receiver and antenna, plus a wireless data radio connected to a cellular antenna. Software is a secure suite of web pages, that we provide, accessible to authorized users only, available on any PC running Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or later. No other hardware or software is required.
	Why should I consider the TRACPOINT solution? How do I benefit by using it? Benefits include improved customer service, increased productivity through better scheduling, as well as enhanced driver safety and asset protection. Having TRACPOINTvehicle tracking information available allows your company to:   Have a competitive advantage. Provide better-estimated arrival times. Improve on-time delivery by rerouting vehicles. Resolve disputes when delivery times are questioned. Improve productivity. Monitor and optimize vehicle customer stops. Check for on-route compliance. Conduct post-route analysis to improve scheduling. Safeguard drivers and protect vehicle assets. Track driver safety by monitoring vehicle speed and travel patterns. Monitor vehicle use during and after work hours.
	What if I need to know asset position right this instant? This in known as asset "polling". You may instantly locate a mobile or fixed asset anywhere in North America. You simply select "Get Vehicle Position" from your secure web browser and within a few seconds your TRACPOINT solution pinpoints the asset. If this is a mobile asset that is on the move you receive location, speed and heading!