Frequently Asked Questions

How does GPS vehicle tracking system work? A GPS antenna is connected to the unit with a lead wire. The GPS antenna collects the GPS data and feeds it to the unit. The unit does some processing of events and speeds. Additionally, the GPS vehicle tracking unit has a wireless modem inside, similar to ones found in cell phones. This modem is used to communicate with (PAMS)'s system software servers. The GPS data is stored to memory and then sent directly from the vehicles unit to (PAMS) servers, where it is immediately processed into usable information for users. This all takes place in Real-Time.

What about installation? Most of our systems are easy to install, 90% of our customers can install the systems themselves. Simply hook up a ground, constant power wire, and a power wire that turns on and off with the ignition, mount the GPS antenna, and the system is ready to go. GPS and GSM antennas can be installed hidden under the plastic covering of cars dashboard. You can also choose to have the system professionally installed by any one of our installation specialists located in every part of the United States and Canada.

Can you help me with the installation? Yes. We have a network of installation specialists in every part of the U.S. should you decide to use a professional.

How do I figure out which product is right for me? Our professional consultants look forward to assisting you in selecting the right system for you and your company. We will work with you to customize most applications to best suit your individual needs. Please email us at Info@protondatasecurity.com for further information.

Can I conceal the GPS tracking system from my drivers? Yes. Our units are quite small and are often installed under the dashboard including hidden GPS and GSM antennas.

What about GPS enabled cell phones? Many companies recognize the value of tracking their vehicle assets and employees. One affordable solution is using a cell phone GPS tracking system which appears to offer the cheapest way to start tracking your employees and your fleet. To the buyer who is uneducated with GPS equipment, GPS phones seem to be an easy way to begin reaping the benefits of GPS tracking, but as the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for." These types of systems are second rate for the following reasons:

• Driver Tampering
• High battery consumption makes uninterrupted tracking difficult and demands constantly re-charging the battery
• Incomplete Reporting if battery is removed
• If Coverage is to GSM is lost so is tracking

Tampering: The first and foremost problem with the GPS phones is that the drivers can simply turn it off either the java applet running the GPS software on the phone or the phone itself. There are message boards throughout the Internet where crafty employees are spreading the knowledge on how to disable the GPS phone without being detected. Going into basements or using a metal wrap around the phone, or placing it in a tool box will make it appear as if the phone is malfunctioning or has merely "lost signal".

Battery Life: When the GPS tracking is added to the phone, the battery consumption is increased by over 50%. This means the GPS phone will not last an entire work day without requiring at least one re-charge. This is often used as an excuse by the person carrying the phone can use if he/she does not want to be tracked.

Reporting: The difference in reporting is another area where the phone system is weak. Although the GPS cell phones can usually report on 3-15 minute intervals like their dedicated counterparts, the fact that a GPS signal can be lost so easily, dramatically affects the Start-Stop reporting. Business owners relying on accurate reports so they can feel confident when comparing their employee time sheets against the GPS software report. Using a system that is only accurate 50% of time only leads to doubt on the employers end. Can you afford to be right or wrong 50% of the time? Hard-wired GPS systems remove this uncertainty. Because they are "always on" and have the best ability to maintain a GPS lock with the satellites, the reports a manager has to look at are always 99% accurate.

Coverage/Cost: GPS phones require generally a minimum monthly voice plan of $39.00 plus a minimum monthly data plan of $9.99. When you add the monthly tracking services, you are easily into the $60.00+ range on monthly services, and that is with minimal usage. Our hard wired systems transmit very little amounts of data so the costs are much lower.

Is there anything else that could be connected and controlled by the tracking unit? Of course! (PAMS) hardware can do the following:

• Connect a switch to select the type of trip which is driven, business or private personal usage.
• Unlock your doors, flash the lights, and honk the horn.
• Disable the ignition or start the ignition.

It can control anything with a switch, anything!