The GPS/radio hardware is a device that is permanently installed in a vehicle or is carried by a person.  The primary functions of the device is (1) to determine its location on the earth, (2) monitor surrounding conditions of the device and (3) link with a remote computer.

The GPS (Global Positioning Satellites) portion provides information such as time, latitude & longitude coordinates, altitude, speed and direction once every second when in normal operation.  Some devices have a sleep mode option that helps conserve battery power.

The device processes the GPS information along with other digitals inputs and trigger events.  Inputs are connections to items such as ignition switch, motion/vibration sensor or door opening.  Trigger events are conditions such as an interval timer expiring, speeding or when a device enters/exits a defined address.

The device also contains a wireless transmitter.  This allows for a real-time or near real-time connection in which the device’s information is relayed back and forth to a remote application computer.

The GPS/radio hardware is a one-time cost and typically includes all the necessary accessory items such as power cables, antennas and chargers, if applicable.  For permanent installations, there is a secondary one-time charge for labor.