GPS Devices To Combat Copper Thieves In Australia
Reducing Copper Theft With GPS Tracking
Copper theft is an issue all over the world. In fact, copper theft has become so prevalent in some states that laws have been drafted to require those recycling copper to provide a valid driver's license in case of any potential future problems surrounding where an individual obtained the copper to ensure it was gathered legally. Unfortunately, these additional measures are not applied everywhere and even when they are used do not completely eliminate the epidemic of copper theft. This is why the Metro in Australia is fighting copper theft with the use of GPS tracking devices in hope it will reduce the nearly $1 million dollars spent annually in loss along with operation closures due to the rise in theft.
Metro made the decision to move forward with micro GPS trackers after a copper theft on a popular line resulted in roughly 50,000 morning commuters being forced to wait out lengthy delays. Basically a small group of copper thieves cut active cables that shut down power and pushed Metro to suspend train services while repairs were conducted. Metro was forced to work with local bus companies and frustrated customers due to the delays all because a small group of fools stole what was estimated to be a little over $600 in copper. With over 40 reported incidents of copper theft last year by Metro and roughly 20 incidents this year, officials for the rail company felt they had no other choice but to invest in GPS trackers to eliminate the problem.
A survey conducted by Public Transport Victoria shows that railway delays caused from copper theft have resulted in roughly $4 million in wages lost from late arrivals by workers. This has impacted both business productivity and wages earned by employees. In fact, copper theft has become such a significant problem that some railways are opting to use material composed of aluminum to replace copper cables stolen by thieves. Unfortunately, replacing all existing copper cables with the less expensive aluminum would be a huge hurdle because the network is already in use and would take significant time and money to replace.
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Real-Time Tracking With Smart Phones
Web-Based GPS Tracking Offers More
When it comes to GPS tracking technology consumers want the most efficient products possible. This means highly accurate data, fast update rates, multiple driving reports, real-time alerts and of course the ability to remotely monitor vehicle tracking information. Mobile phones are now the method that most people surf the Internet, social network and connect with the people most important in their lives. This is why it should be no surprise that consumers and businesses investing in GPS trackers demand that they have the ability to review real-time GPS data from their smart phones.
GPS tracking data can be viewed from a smart phone in two different ways: the first being through the use of an app downloaded upon the cell phone and the other via mobile web version. In order to access this data the user only needs three (3) things:
- GPS Device Attached To Vehicle
- Active Data Plan (Tracker Transmitting Position)
- Internet Connection With Mobile Phone
Once a GPS tracker device is activated and transmitting data on the target automobile the live locational data is housed on remote servers. This eliminates the need for any software. The data is stored securely and can be accessed with the use of a passcode and username which allows the user to access their personal GPS tracking data from any device connected to the Internet, including tablets, computers and smart phones.
