Tracking Solutions
How it Works: High-Level Overview
With Tracking Innovations’ RTTS, pallets are prepared before the shipment begins with up to five recoverable Master Units.
These Master Units are paired with 1 to 40 associated satellite aRFID tags (for a maximum of 200 total aRFID tags). Configuration
options for the aRFID tags include (but are not limited to):
- Temperature Only
- Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature and Shock
Each tag contains 512k of memory, which is used to store data readings. They are powered by four disposable AA batteries.
While a Master Unit is in transit, it provides periodic reports to the tracking server at the data center. The unit attempts
to connect first via a local wireless network (Wi-Fi). If a local network is not detected, the Master Unit attempts to connect
via a cellular network. If a cellular network is not detected, the Master Unit attempts to connect via the Iridium satellite network.
Tracking Innovations’ “least cost routing algorithm” ensures that the most cost effective means of communications is used. If none of
these networks is detected, the Master Unit follows a retry procedure.
When a Master Unit establishes a connection with the tracking server, it uploads a report that includes location and tag data.
After a successful upload, the Master Unit clears this data from internal memory.
After each shipment, the Master Unit can be recovered and prepared for reuse. Depending on the configuration and application,
aRFID tags may or may not be reused.
Viewing and Tracking Options
Customers have several options for viewing and integrating tracking data, including:
Data Integration – Tracking and conditions data is automatically integrated into current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP),
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or just about any other business system. The Tracking Innovations technology team works
closely with customers to find the right solution for data integration.
Hosted, Web-Based Services – Customers can also monitor and manage tracking via our secure 256-bit encrypted Web portal.
The platform was developed utilizing the Microsoft .NET 3.5 framework and Microsoft Bing Maps. This option is useful for anytime, anywhere,
system/browser/computer-agnostic access to information. The portal features a built-in configuration tool that allows you to set
alarms that are delivered by SMS (text message), email and/or voice notifications. Customers can view 2-D or 3-D tracking maps
for near real time visual updates.
Mobile Tracking – RTTS data and tracking views can be monitored with a wide range of mobile devices, including Windows
Mobile devices, Palm Treo, BlackBerry Smart Phones, Other PDA devices, including those manufactured by Samsung, HTC, Motorola, AT&T, and more.
To learn more about the technology behind the RTTS tracking system please see our technology page.
Supplemental technology definitions are available here.
For a more detailed discussion of your unique technology requirements and existing architecture, please call our professional
services staff at 1-716-849-6570 or email us directly with your questions.