Beacons are small, battery-operated Bluetooth devices that send out a signal every second. Each beacon has its own unique identity or signal. Beacons are physically attached to assets. A mobile device app can interface with a beacon, much like our QR tags.
A special app on a smartphone or tablet can pick up the beacon signal within a maximum operational range of 100m. When the mobile device is within operational proximity, the app estimates the location of the beacon (and, therefore, the asset).
Learn more about how the app finds a beacon location.
Beacon battery life is about 24 months, depending on local conditions. The asset interface indicates a low battery status near the end of battery life. Batteries are replaceable.
How does Nektar use beacons?
Beacons can auto-update an asset's location when used in tandem with a mobile device’s GPS. When a mobile device loaded with the app comes within operational proximity of a beacon, the app tells the server it has encountered the beacon. The app also conveys the beacon's unique identity and approximate location. Because the beacon is registered to a single asset, the asset's location is updated. The mapping and GIS interface show the new location.
Companies choose to update asset locations with beacons when other techniques, like telematics devices, are impossible or too expensive.
Beacons can be attached to any type of asset. The most common are small power and hand tools (e.g. chop saws, packers, drills, etc.). Other ideal asset types are trailers, attachments, buckets, safety equipment, and signage. Beacons are extremely useful in helping to find answers to "Who has it?" and "Where is it?"
Any mobile device loaded with the app can locate an asset-equipped beacon including anonymous users not part of your company.
Click to learn how to attach a beacon to an asset.