Telematics tracker integrates Bluetooth and WiFi in one device
Vehicle tracking, driver behaviour monitoring, theft prevention, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and 4G capabilities are integrated in a single device. The StarLink Tracker from ERM Advanced Telematics are the first product under ERM’s Wireless Connect strategy for vehicle manufacturers and importers and fleet management companies.
The StarLink Tracker is designed for installation both in vehicles on the production line and in the after-market, for vehicles that have left the production line. The StarLink Tracker with Wi-Fi turns any vehicle in which it is installed into a connected car. Modularity allows add-on products provided by ERM or by a third party. Add-ons can be on demand and the StarLink Tracker device keeps functioning as the central tracking and communications unit.
The StarLink Tracker has extended wireless capabilities and is designed to be implemented in connected car applications. Typically, the installation of many telematics products for vehicle tracking, analysis of various situations and events and driver behaviour diagnostics require wired connections. The StarLink Tracker can be installed using a standard smartphone which communicates through Bluetooth connection in order to configure the product and perform any required adaptations. This is faster than many other telematics devices, claims ERM, and without connection and integrating wires.
In addition to wireless capabilities that help track the vehicle and other telematics functions, the StarLink Tracker with Wi-Fi is equipped with a microphone and loudspeaker to initiate and receive calls and dial emergency numbers. One application for this can be e-call (emergency call), such as in the European Union or just as an emergency call application.
It will also provide information about the driver’s behaviour, including careless driving, accidents, off road driving, acceleration during turns and speed violations for fleet management and to decrease operational expenses.
The compact tracker weighs around 120g and creates Wi-Fi hotspots in the vehicle for up to eight devices, with 4G cellular modem, GPS/GLONASS/Galileo location module and an ability to navigate inside underground parking lots or in mines. Other features are internal antennae, emergency button support and a built-in data logger. There is also internal management of up to 500 driver IDs, remote immobilisation, wireless connectivity to a wide range of additional ERM and third party products.
The StarLink Tracker with Wi-Fi’s 4G capability will provide broadband communications for applications such as listening to online music, video consumption or surfing the web during the car ride. The Bluetooth capability will enable installers, drivers and end-users to connect mobile devices, receive information and set different configurations without the need for wires.
