When searching for a commercial asset tracking solution, you’ll probably spend a lot of time combing through various websites trying to find out what the most important considerations are before deciding on a solution.
Searching for the perfect solution can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. That is why we’ve highlighted 5 fast facts to consider when it comes to selecting the best Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) solution for asset tracking.
5 Fast Facts About Bluetooth LE Asset Tracking Solutions
Key considerations when choosing a Bluetooth LE powered asset tracking solution are power consumption, use cases, accuracy, cost, and flexibility. Let’s take a look at each.
LOW POWER CONSUMPTION
Bluetooth LE is a wireless communication protocol for shorter distances. The biggest difference between traditional Bluetooth and Bluetooth LE is how much and how often information is shared between connected devices. Bluetooth was designed to enable constant communication, while Bluetooth LE communicates asset location only when the user deems necessary. Link Labs Bluetooth LE asset tags remain in sleep mode until told to send information. Bluetooth LE tags last up to 7 years because of this battery conservation technique.
WIDELY APPLICABLE
Bluetooth LE asset tracking technology can be used across many industries to aid in a company’s asset tracking needs.
- Manufacturing: Manufacturing companies benefit from the use of a Bluetooth LE system because it reduces the search time for missing inventory. It can also be used to analyze and improve work in process (WIP) tracking. Using AirFinder’s Bluetooth LE OnSite system allows you to set up geofences with alerts. This means you know when an asset leaves, enters, or moves between zones.
- Healthcare: Instead of spending an hour looking for medical equipment, a Bluetooth LE system tells you quickly the approximate location of what you’re looking for, such as infusion pumps, wheelchairs, and even personnel. A Real Time Location System (RTLS) that uses Bluetooth LE can even tell you when maintenance is needed on medical equipment.
- Hospitality: Hotels can use Bluetooth LE systems for housekeepers and staff. In partnership with various hotel chains, Link Labs has enabled a solution to maintain staff safety. Each housekeeper keeps a discrete button to trigger a distress alert in case of an emergency. Once triggered, an alert with their location is sent in real time through the AirFinder platform. Another important factor in this system is the ability to provide floor-level accuracy so users can detect near-exact locations.
- Logistics: Returnable shipping racks and containers often get misplaced within facilities. Using an asset tracking Bluetooth LE system helps users take preventative action to avoid losing costly assets. Companies using AirFinder for logistics have recovered up to 900% of missing assets, benefiting in an ROI.
ACCURACY
With Bluetooth LE, users have the benefit of conserving energy while obtaining approximate asset location. Because Bluetooth Low Energy systems are based on range to nearby beacons and access points, users can have peace of mind in knowing their assets are within a desired location.
LOW COST
Bluetooth LE systems do not have a complicated infrastructure. Easy installation reduces cost. The type of batteries used for these systems are inexpensive and last far longer than comparable solutions. For example, choosing an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) system may give you more accuracy, but it costs significantly more to implement and use, and the batteries die more quickly.
FLEXIBLE SYSTEM
To reach a variety of industries, Link Labs’ Bluetooth LE asset tracking system is flexible to meet company-specific use cases. By integrating or adding-on the AirFinder Everywhere (outdoor asset tracking system), our solution meets you where you need it most. If you’re a company that needs to track inside and outside, you no longer have to pay for two systems.
With Link Labs, users also have the choice of which connectivity solution to use. By setting up preferred connections between GPS, WiFi, Cellular ID, and Link Labs Symphony Link, you have the flexibility to never lose sight of your assets . Each comes with its benefits and it’s up to you to decide which one will work best for what you need.
Advancement of Bluetooth Low Energy
Bluetooth LE asset tracking technology continues to make strides in the asset tracking and monitoring space. Link Labs has recently pioneered a newer version of it’s Bluetooth LE technology referred to as Xtreme Low Energy (XLE®). XLE® provides even greater benefits than traditional Bluetooth LE. For more information, book a demo today.
