GPS Tracking Review

Conclusion:

Upon receiving the Live Trac PT-10 we had high performance expectations because of the powerful statements that were posted on the manufacturer’s website, and the Live View GPS’ sales representatives reiterated those claims, suggesting this was the “best real-time system on the market”. However, their was no appealing packaging or comprehensive manual provided when the Live Trac-PT-10 arrived, and the system itself was not very competitive in regards to pricing and monthly fees. Activating the device was not confusing and was a relatively simple process, and the web-based mapping application was easy to access and login to. Live View GPS provided many reporting features for customers to choose from, some being common GPS tracking reports such as a start/stop report and some that were a little more unconventional such as an aggressive driving report. The various reporting options are unique and supply the user with many different avenues to view the recorded data.

From a functionality stand point, the Live Trac PT-10 performed at an above average level when tested for accuracy. However, due to the limited placement options many of the ideal locations, such as underneath the vehicle, were unable to be tested. The system quickly acquired a GPS signal and began recording accurate positions when tested on the front dashboard and on the glove box. Although the Live Trac PT-10 was efficient recording positions in the glove box and front dashboard they would not be practicable placement options in “real world” scenarios.

The Live Trac PT-10 did provide some useful alert systems, such as the zone and speed alerts, which could prove to be advantageous to customers of many different demographics. However, even when the system was placed in the optimum position and the preset speed on the speed alert was surpassed; the system did not send notification on a few occasions, proving the alerts were capable of failing.

Live View GPS’ Live Trac PT-10 was effective at gathering, storing, and recording data, but its compact design hindered its battery storage capabilities. The unit precisely plotted GPS coordinates systematically every 10 seconds, however, after a little less than 8 hours of continuous usage the batteries would expire and the system would lose power. This was the major disadvantage with the product. By solely focusing on the creation of a compact GPS tracking system, the system fails to integrate a functional battery into the design that would result in a more functional system for the consumer. The additional battery option also puts the unit out of reach for many customers.
Pros vs. Cons: Summary of Live Trac PT-10

Pros:
• Tracking data is easily accessed
• Live support option available from 7:00a.m.-7:00p.m. CST
• Speed and Zone alerts
• Multiple text report features
• Real-time updates every 10 Seconds
• User-friendly web-based mapping
• Compact size
• Belt clip attachment
• Microsoft Virtual Earth mapping
• No software required
• Records position every 10 feet when moving under 10 mph
Cons:
• Battery needs constant charging due to insufficient size (Records maximum 8 hours)
• Live View GPS provided inaccurate information and questionable sales practices.
• Historical playback began with tracking data recorded where unit was manufactured
• When zoomed in while viewing the data the historical playback updates faster than mapping can load
• No control function to slow down the historical playback feature
• Online chat feature provided unsatisfactory support
• Speed alerts were not 100% reliable
• Could not be hardwired to vehicle’s 12 volt system for continuous power supply
• Some reports only feature longitude and latitude positions and do not provide addresses
• Does not have ability to be mounted outside vehicle (unless additional accessory is purchased)

Bottom Line:

Live View GPS’ Live Trac PT-10 is an adequate product that performed effectively and efficiently when tested on the front dashboard and in the glove box. Activation was simple and the web based mapping was user-friendly. The inability to sustain battery power for over 8 hours was the most inconvenient flaw on the system’s design, and the customer service provided was far from respectable or honest. When you purchase the Live Trac PT-10 from Live View GPS you will not receive a unit that provides “12 times faster update(s) than the closet competitor”, or “the lowest fixed monthly price”. What you will receive is a system that’s battery lasts less than the average work day. That is unless you want to purchase a cigarette lighter adapter accessory for $19.95, a waterproof case for $39.95 and an extended battery life pack for $279.00, which would bring the cost of the Live Trac PT-10 to $777.89 for the hardware and first month’s data service. This would probably not be the best GPS tracking solution for a consumer on a budget.

Pages: 1 2 3 4

Trackback URI | Comments RSS