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AXTracker:
An Inexpensive Satellite Transmitter
for Sensing Changes at Remote Locations
The AXTracker (figure 1) is a battery-operated, self-contained telemetry device designed to communicate using the Globalstar satellite network. It can provide cost-efficient, reliable location and monitoring reports from nearly anywhere. The unit is fully programmable and can handle up to four alarm inputs. All the components, including the built-in antenna are in a 6- by 9- by 1-inch environmental enclosure. Battery life can range from 3 to 8 years, depending on how many reports are sent per day. The AXTracker sends information on a user-programmed schedule or when an alarm event occurs.
Figure 1—The AXTracker satellite telemetry system manufactured by
Axonn LLC can track assets, sense temperatures, and transmit a variety of
alarms indicating that a switch is on or off.—Photo by Scott Quillin,
Axonn LLC
The information can be communicated in several ways. First, the data are sent over the Globalstar satellite network to a separate service provider (often called a back-office provider) where the information can be displayed on a Web site for viewing or retrieval. Alternatively, the service provider can retransmit global positioning system (GPS), motion, temperature, or alarm data over the Internet as an e-mail message or as a text message to a cellular phone or pager. A second option is to use special service providers that function like burglar- or fire-alarm call centers. They receive data and make regular voice calls to you and others you select on a cascading call list.
The AXTracker transmitter costs $349. Service providers who process information from the AXTracker typically charge fees of $3 to $4 per month plus 20 to 25 cents per report from the AXTracker for processing and displaying the information. Typically, providers charge a $30 to $50 one-time activation fee per unit. Such costs are economical for someone who will receive one or two reports per day or less frequently for an abnormal or alarm situation, such as for an opened door or window, a motor that has turned on or off, or a temperature or water level that is excessively high or low. The AXTracker includes an integrated motion sensor, which is valuable for tracking movement or an unauthorized person trying to move something that has an AXTracker hidden inside (such as a valuable piece of equipment). The AXTracker can send a notification when it crosses a predetermined boundary (known as a geofence).
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