Portables
FAQs - SlimTRAK and SlimTRAK PRO
Q. What is the SlimTRAK used for?
A. The SlimTRAKgps, is a global positioning system. It uses wireless communication hardware, paired with internet-based asset Location Services, which provides real-time asset tracking and fleet management tools for vehicles or other objects that can move and need to be tracked. It is the most sophisticated portable tracking system available. The SLIMTRAK system provides you the peace-of-mind notification of your vehicle status with the freedom to locate, control and be contacted by mobile phone and/or the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.
Q. What is the difference between SlimTRAK and SlimTRAK PRO?
A. The major differences are in the operation. The hardware is the same. The PRO allows you to use Satellite and Birdseye view mapping. It also has GEO-FENCING capabilities. The PRO also has an unlimited tracking plan available for $29.95 per month. While in motion it will automatically send its location every 15 minutes and the user can manually locate the unit location as much as you want. The PRO also comes with the option of an external antenna.
Q. I have the SlimTRAK that I purchased from another company and I want to use MicroTRAKgps for my tracking, Can I switch to the MicroTRAKgps?
A. Yes - just call our office. The customer will need to send in the SLIMTRAK to be reprogrammed and re-simed. This will cost $100. Then customer will have to pay all the other fees associated with set up and airtime. The cost are $96.00 ANNUAL WEB ACCESS fee plus $50 ACTIVATION. They will then be billed monthly for their usage at $.15 per location. If it is a SLIMTRAK PRO the cost will be $50 ACTIVATION and $29.95 MONTHLY for AIRTIME
Q. What are some of the key features of the SlimTRAK?
A. It is a self-contained unit with no external connections or antennas, GSM 900/1800 MHz (DCS) and 1900 MHz (PCS), Indoor and outdoor position reports via SMS, and it is battery operated.
Q. Is the SlimTRAKgps map and report information real-time?
A. Yes, it is real-time. The in-vehicle Slim TRAK GPS unit transmits GPS position data to the SlimTRAK GPS servers, which in turn updates your SlimTRAKgps web pages. Updates are transmitted at standard intervals. This provides timely location updates, while avoiding the data-overload problems that come with continuous position updates. The SlimTRAKgps web site maps display asset position as updates are received. You control settings for how often the maps update. So depending on how frequently maps update - also depending on when vehicle reports were last received - location data can be virtually real-time!. Street addresses ,speed of vehicle, start and stop times, direction, and battery levels are reported.
Q. How often do I need to change the batteries?
A. The AA battery powered SlimTRAK will last up to 90 days with an average of 10 locates per day, while the SLIMTRAK PRO will last 5-8 days. The user can also determine the percentage of battery power left by logging in to the website and viewing the battery level. Average Drive time presumes a vehicle driving 3 to 5 hours a day plus a couple of hours on Saturday and Sunday (Reports sent may vary slightly more or less depending on usage).
Q. What are the tracking costs?
A. Activation Fee: There is an activation fee of $50.00
SLIMTRAK PRO: We offer unlimited tracking service for $29.95 a month. The unit will automatically send its position every 15 minutes while in motion. This unit is programmed for Live-Poling which means unlimited amount of on demand manual locates while in motion.
SLIMTRAK: $96.00 annual web access fee per. You will receive a monthly invoice for your usage. The usage charge is $.15 per location. The unit will update every 5 minutes in motion. NOTE: The unit is motion activated - when the vehicle is parked it powers down thereby preserving the life of the battery.
Q. What mapping systems are available on the
SlimTRAK ?
A. SlimTRAK utilizes Google Maps. A user will have the following options.
• Google Standard Map View
• Google Satellite View
• Google Satellite/Hybrid Map View
Q. Can I have more than 1 SlimTRAK on one account?
A. Yes. You can have up to 200 units in one account. However, you will still have to pays the fees for each individual unit.
Q. How often does the SlimTRAKgps update its location?
A. The SlimTRAK comes pre-programmed for 5 minute updates but can be configured for other minute updates if desired. When logging into the website click locate to get a current position of the SlimTRAK, plus you will also see the last 90 days of locations of the unit.
Q. Does this unit work worldwide?
A. SlimTRAK currently works in the USA and CANADA
Q. What are the dimensions and weight of the SlimTRAKgps?
A. Size is 5.78" x 2.99" x 1.44" (143.3 mm x 76.2 mm x 36.7 mm) without the case and 8.5" x 4.75" x 2" with the case.
A. Weight is 205 grams (7.2 oz) not including batteries and 300 grams (10.2 oz) with 4 AA alkaline batteries
Q. How is the SlimTRAK powered?
A. All you need is 4 AA batteries which will power the unit for UP TO 90 days (this allows for 10 reports a day). An optional vehicle power adapter is available ( called a Vehicle Adaptor Module or VAM)
Q. What is the Optional Vehicle Power Adapter Module and how is it installed?
A. It replaces the standard battery-pack and allows connection to an external 9-32 VDC power supply and three types of switched inputs. Includes rechargeable standby battery to allow limited operation after loss of external power. The vehicle adapter is $50.00.
Q. How can I mount my SlimTRAK on a vehicle?
A. MicroTRAKgps recommends using zip ties that can be purchased at local hardware stores. The units are water resistant, in order to completely protect your unit from water it is also recommended placing your unit in a Ziploc bag. Magnet mounts are available, however they are not sold through MicroTRAKgps due to the interference the magnets can cause with location accuracy.
Q. How does the SlimTRAK work without an external antenna?
A. Unlike older GPS units that require an external antenna, the SlimTRAK, uses a super powerful internal antenna that radiates the signal outward allowing communication with the satellites. A clear view of the sky is not needed allowing the SlimTRAK, to be placed covertly.
Q. What type of GPS system is it and how does it work?
A. It is cellular (GSM) based. The SlimTRAK I/O Processors (IOPs) collect incoming vehicle data from the wireless communication media (e.g. Radio, Cellular, CDPD, Satellite) and present it onto the Server network in a standard format (independent of the wireless medium over which it was originally transmitted). The IOPs act as information sources to the network. The SlimTRAK AVL Server accepts all incoming vehicle reports and stores them on its local disk, keeping each vehicle's reports organized in a date-structured hierarchy of disk folders. Thus, it has the power to go "back in time" and instantaneously access vehicle data from days, months, and even years past, at the simple request of a client customer viewer.
All functions are easily configured to your particular company's needs and can also be uniquely tailored to each client's individual SlimTRAK serial number.
Q. Can the SlimTRAK alert me if the vehicle moves?
A. Yes, you can be alerted by TEXT MESSAGE or EMAIL by setting up the GEOFENCE system.
Q. What if I only log in every two weeks, will my data still be available?
A. Yes, the SlimTRAK will store your data. It has a 90 day history.
Q. How do I track my vehicle?
A. A customer will visit www.microtrakgps.com to view their tracking page. They will then log into a secure website with a login id and password. All a customer needs is an internet connection and a web browser.
Q. How can the SlimTRAK be installed on a vehicle?
A. The SlimTRAK can be placed in a variety of locations on a vehicle. It can be placed under a seat, in a glove box or underneath the vehicle.
Q. Does the magnet mount case work - will it fall off the vehicle?
A. Yes it does but MicroTRAKgps or any of its subsidiary companies or dealers will NOT be held responsible when the unit is being used with the magnet mount case, MicroTRAKgps does not sell, nor will it support using a magnetic case. The magnets can also interfere with the reporting capabilities of the unit. The case is offered as an accessory by other companies as an easier to use method of placing the SlimTRAK under a vehicle. However, by using the magnet mount case, you agree to not hold the above stated companies liable if the unit falls off the vehicle and becomes lost or damaged
Q. What are the benefits of SlimTRAK?
A. SlimTRAKgps reports your vehicle location, speed and direction. Slim TRAK GPS employs motion based reporting which reduces power usage. To accomplish these services inexpensively, SlimTRAKgps employs its 24/7 automated response center to manage automated requests.
Q. What coverage is available?
A. Coverage is available anywhere in the USA and CANADA where there is cellular service.
Q. What support is available?
A. 24/7 Tech Support is available via phone or email.
Q. Is there a warranty on the SlimTRAK?
A. Yes, we stand behind our product. There is a 1 year warranty on the unit. We will repair or replace it if it malfunctions within the 12 month purchase period.
< class="list"p>Q. Are there any laws against using GPS Tracking Systems?
A. Yes - there may be laws in your specific state against placing a GPS on someone's vehicle without their permission. It’s up to you to follow and abide by all applicable state laws. MicroTRAKgps will not be held liable.