Kees, Gary ; Trent, Andy . 2005. AXTracker: An Inexpensive Satellite Transmitter for Sensing Changes at Remote Locations. 0524 2802. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program. 14 p.
In remote areas, radio transmissions and cellular phone coverage may be unreliable. In such areas, satellite telemetry can be used to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature, conditions at facilities, and the status of intrusion sensors. Two temperature sensors, one just under the soil surface and one just above the surface, can be used to determine when snow has melted at remote locations and when the soil temperature may be suitable for planting trees. The cost of hardware and monthly fees can make some means of satellite telemetry unaffordable. The AXTracker transmitter, which communicates using the Globalstar satellite network, is a relatively inexpensive device that can be used for 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, fit in a 6- by 9- by 1-inch enclosure. Battery life can range from 3 to 8 years, depending on how many reports are sent each day.
Keywords: alarms, Axonn, facilities, Globalstar, GPS, planting, reforestation, remote sensing, surveillance, telemetry, temperature
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