02-25-2021, 01:10 PM
(02-25-2021, 12:28 PM)rotor_imp Wrote: Searched the forum but couldn't find any comment on such devices.
A friend who will be making a trip to where theft is a know problem asked me about trackers, but my knowledge of the subject is quite shallow: there is (the best-known ?) GlobalStar/Spot device which operates entirely on their own hybrid (terrestrial+satellite) network, but is pricey, especially when the monthly service fee is factored in.
Other than Spot, there is a variety of devices, all of two distinct types: those that have built-in SIM card and operate in cooperation with selected, often regional mobile telephony company(ies), and devices where the user is providing the SIM card and the device communicates with the owner via SMS messages and/or SIM's data traffic. The former type always requires a service contract with the device vendor, the latter often (but not always) does nor. The type that works with owner provided SIM seems to be more likely to be operational world-wide (provided of course one can obtain local pre-paid SIM in the country visited). There are also some privacy concerns when a complete travel log is left in the service operator's possession.
Is my general understanding of the technology correct? Is there someone here that has practical experience with a particular device vendor/service operator he would be willing to share?
TIA,
Thanks [url=http://cb1100forum.com/forum/member.php?action=profile&uid=3454]PB.
rotor: My solution is the least known.
Basically I took one of [url=https://www.simtek.io/products/simtek-duo-smart-motion-sensor]these devices, modified the electronics with a tilt-switch (basically a mercury switch), a few circuit cuts/jumps and a resistor or two (all this totally voids the device warranty), and I have been using it for a couple years now.
The original device functionality is maintained, but I cover those sensors up. I keep the Simtek Duo stored under the seat (for example) and when the bike is moved in a non-favourable way, the device activates and sends a SMS message to my phone usually in less than 30 seconds. With the installed app, I also get triangulated coordinates of the device, and hence my bike. That is basically it.
The lithium battery charge lasts up to a year, but is easily recharged via a USB power source. I find myself charging it every couple months when the app shows 60% or less on the battery. This device has a $4 US per month fee or a lower priced annual fee.
Another great thing is I move this from bike-to-bike - as needed. Above all, if I stop using it for motorcycle tampering, I can use the device as it was originally marketed for.