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Though one component of thebroader technology named “telemetry,”GPS is quickly becoming theinnovative solution of choice fortheft prevention. Many owners arealready aware of and evaluatingtelemetry systems on the meritsof their productivity enhancing,service management and diagnosticcapabilities. The added bonusis the theft protection component,which any savvy fleet managershould include in his or her assessmentof this technology.When it comes to protecting yourvaluable construction equipmentand trucks, there are two basic approaches:prevention and recovery.The former is the favorite strategy,since it significantly reduces potentialdamage to the asset as well as eliminatesthe time and effort required tochase it down once gone. Unfortunatelyand too often, contractors waituntil something is stolen before startingto look at implementing a theftprotection strategy. When it comesto equipment theft, an ounce ofGPS prevention is definitely worth apound of cure.Easy Access — Since mostequipment is universally keyed,a single key starts any machinefrom the same manufacturer.Unfortunately any thief in theworld can get these keys at a localdealership or even easier online.Since the equipment is literallysitting on the side of the road orbehind a chain link fence, all thecrooks have to do is hop in anddrive off. Though chain link fencesonce were a sufficient deterrent,thieves now simply jump overthem, drive the machine throughthem and load the stolen equipmentin the street. The averageconstruction equipment theft takesabout 20 minutes. For trucks, thetheft occurs in a matter of minuteswith a quick break-in and hotwire.Delay in Discovery — Equipmentcan sit for days at a time without anyonetouching it, but assumed to be inthe same place. Thieves are smart andwill routinely steal on Friday night orover a weekend, knowing that nobodyHow GPS and Asset TrackingTechnology WorksEquipment tracking with a GPS equipment monitoring system, like the DPLAmerica TITAN, involves three basic parts:1. A transponder unit mounted on the asset2. A communication medium to transmit the data3. A user interface where the manager views the data in a usable formatThe transponder unit is about the size of a large ashtray and houses the GPSreceiver and wireless radio. Wireless networks, the same used by mobile phones,provide communication between the transponder on the asset and the manager atthe computer. The unit literally “calls” information such as location, on/off status,movement alarms, and unauthorized usage alarms directly from the asset tothe software in real time. Additionally, the manager may “call” the unit from thesoftware and request an update of this data anytime with a click of the computermouse. It is almost as if the machine has its own cell phone, from which it can callyou and vice versa.How to shop for and evaluate a GPS and telemetry systemThe hardware cost for a telemetry system will run you anywhere from $400 to$1,000 per unit with a monthly messaging charge of between $5 to $30 per unit.Here are some important factors to consider:Unit quality and reliability — The unit must hold up in the constructionenvironment so a rugged design is required, and thus a metal enclosure. Be waryof plastic units, as they tend to wear down over time and are not resistant topressure washing, excessive heat or vibration. Also inquire about the warrantyand replacement policy.Anti-tamper features — Crucial for a theft protection system. Ask, “Whathappens if a thief finds the units and smashes or removes it?” Some units disablethe machine from running and some do nothing at all once they are compromised.Also confirm that the antenna is installed out of sight, as that is the first thing asmart thief will look for.Multiple levels of theft protection — Does the unit just provide GPS trackingor does it offer a curfew with cell phone notifications? Does it include machinedisable capabilities, homing beacon? Find the system that matches up withyour desired level of security, and naturally more levels increases your theftprotection.Hidden costs and add-ons — Check to see if you will have an activation fee,support charge, maintenance fee, training fee, software costs, etc. Be sure youthoroughly understand the pricing structure, as $5 a month can quickly become$20 or more if it’s not explained properly.Long-term contract — Some vendors require a multi-year airtime contract;others give you a month-to-month option. Check for early termination penaltiesas well.Company background — Now more than ever, make sure your provider hasbeen in this business for years and has the capacity to support you through theproduct’s life. Is the vendor the original manufacturer or a reseller of the system?How is support handled? Where is the product made and where does the warrantycome from?GPS theft protection options:• Real time locating• After hours unauthorized usage alarm• After hours movement alarm or geofence• After hours immobilization• On-demand immobilization• Homing beacon, creates “bread crumb trail” for police to follow• Backup battery with “primary power cut” notificationJanuary 2009 | Utility Contractor 27