The adoption of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for asset tracking has proved a transformative technology, by leveraging features like energy efficiency, precision in location tracking and cost-effectiveness to improve asset tracking and differentiate it from older tracking technologies, such as passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), GPS and Wi-Fi.
Conventional asset tracking relied on manual methods which were time-consuming and open to human error, which then evolved into RFID and GPS solutions. RFID allows for assets to be tracked without a direct line-of-sight and GPS provides real-time location for assets currently in transit.
RFID works by using electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects. RFID tags operate alongside RFID readers. They’re widely used in inventory management, access control and supply chain tracking.
GPS, meanwhile, uses a network of satellites to determine the location of a GPS-enabled device and is particularly effective for tracking assets over long distances, in outdoor environments. It’s important to note that both of these technologies are still in use today, but the features offered by BLE – particularly its cost-effectiveness and interoperability as a widely-recognised and adopted technology – has made it more popular for asset tracking.
RFID, while effective in short-range tracking, can require significant infrastructure investment and can be impractical for tracking assets over large areas. GPS provides broader coverage but this can be at the expense of battery life and the precision of the tracking.
How does Bluetooth LE work in asset tracking?
BLE asset tracking works by using a network of BLE-enabled devices, beacons or tags, which transmit low-power radio signals. These signals are received by BLE-compatible devices such as smartphones or dedicated receivers. The data collected from these signals is used to determine the location and status of assets in real time.
BLE beacons are small, battery-powered devices that continuously transmit low-energy Bluetooth signals which are attached to the assets that need to be tracked. The signal, often referred to as an advertising packet, contains a unique ID along with other data. The frequency of transmissions can be adjusted depending on the requirements of the application.
BLE receivers detect the signal and record the beacon’s unique ID, the strength of the received signal and any other data transmitted. The received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is key in establishing the proximity of the beacon to the receiver. Generally speaking, the closer the beacon is to the receiver, the stronger the signal.
Benefits of Bluetooth LE
Bluetooth LE, which was introduced as part of the Bluetooth 4.0 specification in 2010, was designed for applications requiring minimal power consumption, offering a solution that can operate for years on a battery in theory while maintaining good connectivity.
This technology is ideal for asset tracking as it requires precision and energy efficiency that BLE provides. A major advantage of Bluetooth is that it is widely supported across most devices which means Bluetooth LE-based tracking systems can be accessed and managed using a wide range of existing hardware.
For businesses who are considering adopting and/or implementing BLE-based asset tracking systems, they need to assess their range requirements as their effectiveness can depend, based on physical obstructions and signal interference; battery life management; integration with existing systems; data management and security, and scalability and future-proofing. Implementing a system that can, for example, accommodate additional beacons and adapt to changing business needs is the best.
“Many of our partners require a ‘truly global’ connectivity solution,” said Ken Everett, CEO and Founder of Digital Matter in an announcement of the company expanding its Bluetooth-enabled GPS devices and summing up why many companies are picking Bluetooth LE for their asset tracking application. “We are excited to soon offer a solution that addresses these needs, enabling effective fleet management and asset tracking without geographic limitations.”
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