GPS Systems and Reviews

Let a GPS Tracking Device Keep an Eye on Your Kids

How many times have you wished that you could be a fly on the wall in the life of your family members? There are probably times in every parent’s life when he or she wishes to know where the kids are taking the car – or even walking on foot. Well, if you are one of those parents then you’re in luck! Because there are tons of companies that offer some version of a GPS tracking device for people like you. And the good part is that these devices were not created with malice in mind, but instead were meant to help you keep your family safe.

About the GPS Tracking Device

You might be wondering how one of these devices can help you keep tabs on your kids. Well, put simply, the system is able to communicate directly with satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites communicate back to the system its exact geographic coordinates and exact time. With this information, and a little bit of computer technology thrown into the pot, you now have the luxury of watching where any person is traveling who holds one of these devices by looking at a map on your computer miles away – and of course, this includes your kids. This means, you can watch them to make sure they don’t go to that friends house you forbade them from visiting, or make sure they don’t drive 80 miles per hour in your new car.

It sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, doesn’t it? Well, it’s actually a true piece of our reality. Even better, it’s an affordable piece of our reality. In fact, some of the units that have been created to track kids and teens run for as little as $100 – not bad! So now I bet you’re wondering how you can get your hands on one of these need little units. Don’t worry; in this article, we will look at some devices that are available online and in stores so that you can begin the process of making your family safer.

Finding the GPS Tracking Device for You

With tons of devices available for you to choose from, how will you be able to select the one that will suit your specific needs? The best way to get started is to read the short list below of units on the market. They will give you an idea of the features you can take advantage of so that you can effectively narrow down your options. Let’s get started!

GPSNanny Products

This company was created with your kids and teens in mind. There is at least one GPS tracking device available for both age groups to help you keep tabs on them, and help them feel safer that someone can find them if they are in trouble. The two units we will briefly look at in this article are the WalkAbout and Teen Tracker.

The WalkAbout is a small device – about the size of a closed flip phone – that can fit in your kids’ pockets, bookbags or purses. Its main purpose is to help you watch where your kids are traveling when they are not in your presence. Some of the features you can take advantage of with this system include being able to watch your kids move on a virtual map that you can view from your home on the computer or mobile tracker in real time. By looking at the map, you learn where your kids are located, and can even create a geo-fence that gives your kids boundaries as to where they can travel. You will automatically be alerted via your mobile phone if they venture outside this area; this way you can always know they’re safe. But probably the best feature on this device is the emergency button that let’s your child alert you if he or she senses impending danger.

The Teen Tracker, on the other hand, is a GPS tracking device that goes into the vehicle your teen drives. By plugging it into your cigarette lighter, you can watch where and how fast your teen is driving. The system also comes with a remote door unlock feature, auto security interface, and emergency button.

Your search for the perfect GPS tracking device doesn’t have to end here – this short list actually only tips the iceberg on what’s available. Besides, you want to make sure that what you find satisfies the desire you have for keeping your kids safe. So do a little bit more searching, look for great prices, and make your selection in care. That way, the GPS tracking device you bring home can be the one that turns you into that fly on the wall you’ve always hoped to be.

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Choosing Personal GPS Systems Is Easier Than You Think

Are you scratching your head at the tough decision you have to make regarding a GPS purchase? If you have never been introduced to the world of global positioning systems, then it may be a bit perplexing at first. But don’t worry! Companies make their units very user friendly, so as long as you are open to learning the differences between types of devices, and you know what you like in optional features, then you won’t have any problems choosing personal GPS systems that suit your needs.

What Are The Differences?

The first thing you will want to do is determine whether you are looking for a system that is primarily used for mapping, navigation or tracking. While there will be many units available that combine the features, you will need know what you are mainly trying to accomplish before choosing personal GPS systems.

Mapping – If your primary goal is to have directions handed to you when traveling between destinations – and you’re good at following maps – then you will want to consider a mapping device. They are usually a little less expensive than the other types and still offer other great options like photo sharing, MP3 players, and maybe even Bluetooth capabilities. The maps may be 2D or 3D and look similar to those of online mapping services. And many even offer directories in the device so that you don’t need to know an address to a business before mapping the directions.

Navigation – Navigation devices are the slightly more advanced version of the mapping system. Whereas the mapping system will give you instructions and a map to view, navigation units actually give you turn-by-turn directions to a location, and even alert you as to whether you’re about to miss a turn or exit. Some mapping systems come with complimentary navigation services, but many do not, meaning you will have to pay more for the navigation feature. So when choosing personal GPS systems, definitely keep in mind whether you are fine with just viewing a virtual map, or whether you want to have turn-by-turn instructions. This will make a huge difference in the unit you purchase.

Tracking – Tracking devices are great for those who want to keep tabs on their cars, pets, or even family members more easily. Usually there are two parts to these units, one that goes for the ride and tracks where it is going, and the other that displays where the first device is traveling. These systems are ideal for those who have teens who drive the car and want to keep track of where they are traveling.

Determining which one of these systems meets your needs is the first step in choosing personal GPS systems. Now we will look at other uses of the units in helping you choose.

In-Dash, Portable or Handheld

Choosing personal GPS systems usually also relies on how you plan to use the device. For example, if you are primarily planning to use the device to get around town in your car, then you might want to consider getting an in-dash system that cannot be removed unless done professionally. However, if you have more than one car and you would like to utilize the services in both cars without having to buy two separate units you can take advantage of a portable device that can easily go from one car to the next.

Then there is the world of the handheld device. Handheld devices can be used in cars, or they can usually be used outside of the vehicle also. For example, if you want to go on a hiking expedition with your friends and family, you can utilize the handheld unit to get you to the area in which you plan to hike. Then, when you get out of the car, it can lead you through trails with the promise that you won’t get lost.

Usually the mapping and navigation devices are those that are either portable or in-dash, while the tracking units are typically handheld. However, there are exceptions to every rule, so don’t expect these devices to suddenly have no exceptions. 

Choosing personal GPS systems is not a difficult task if you have a basic idea of who you are and what you like in general. After you make those determinations, you can figure out the rest. There may be technical terms to get in the way that have the ability to intimidate you, or even let you allow a salesperson to sell you on a system that has way more than you actually need. But if you do your research and assert yourself during the process then chosing personal GPS systems will be a piece of cake for you.

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