My previous article is published here and demonstrates some useful info that may prevent child abduction and makes a tentative case for the use of GPS devices. If you have already read it, then I will go ahead and outline the criteria necessary to select the best way technology can aid you in protecting your child.

Gather a list of answers to the questions below as these will aid you in purchasing the correct solution.

How old is your child?

The age of your child is a huge factor in determining the equipment to be used. For babies and toddlers it is unreasonable to expect them to dial phones or even to press a panic button. For this age group an automated solution is necessary.

For older children the automated solution may be used but if your child is beginning to demand their own personal space (and they will), you will need to consider a solution that allows them some freedom but also allows them to contact you quickly.

Both parents and children need to agree on the device to be used and all need to be familiar with the full operation of the device including simple ‘repair tasks’ such as changing the battery or resetting the device after signal loss. Every device is different and the choice needs to be user friendly for all using it.

When and where will the device be used?

This may seem a nonsensical question, but you will need to consider the activities of your child. If your child is involved in sports or swimming, you will need to budget for a more durable device that may be waterproof or shockproof.

The planned location of your child may block the signal of your device, many schools and public building have equipment to block all RF signals completely – this includes mobile phones, GPS and RFID (these will be explained later in the article). Assisted GPS ,(A-GPS) is also an option as signal may be lost indoors or near tall buildings/mountains.

For examples hospital use jammers to block signals that may interfere with surgeries. Unfortunately ,the criminal elements can also obtain these handheld devices that can block the signal within a short range – tracking is then of no benefit when someone takes your child and has one of these devices.

How do you plan to monitor your child and who will do it?

Buying a tracker is only half of the commitment involved; you also have to consider the monitoring activities of the device that your child carries.

Some companies offer a full monitoring service for a monthly fee (generally 30$+) and will react immediately based on criteria that you set for them.

Others may provide you with software that will allow you to monitor in real-time online – this means you will have to be at your computer constantly. Unless you are tied to an office, a better solution is to go with your child, and work remotely using your laptop.

How complex is the device or monitoring solution?

This is very important, since if the device or the associated software is too complex, in an emergency, mistakes can be made due to lack of knowledge. Keep everything as simple and user-friendly as possible.

The Available Devices

“About time” you cry ,”he gets to the point”.

There are a number of different technologies that be used:

Simple Transmitter – Receiver Technology

Your child carries a transmitter and you carry a receiver or both units may be capable of transmitting and receiving. These generally have a range of 25-30m only and can be useful in crowded places if your child manages to get loose from all the other restraints you have in place (just kidding!,)

These are low-cost and are generally in the 20-30 dollar price range. More expensive models are available which extend the range but few exceed 100 meters.

RFID

Some schools and amusement parks have introduced RFID tracking on their premises which will only work within a defined radius of the physical location – generally no more than a few meters outside the perimeter. This is not a practical solution for domestic use due to large number of sensors (and installation expenses) required as well as software setup etc for monitoring purposes. If used in your child’s school then its one area less you need worry about.

Image via Wikipedia

GPS

GPS devices come in many forms and your selection will depend on your answers to the questions above. GPS is of course short for Global Positioning System and it is indeed true that you can pinpoint any location globally. The technology is used extensively by companies to monitor their fleet and by sales reps to allow them to arrive quickly at their destination using their in-car navigation technology. In Japan , all taxi’s are fitted with GPS ,key in your destination and you will be instructed on the best way to travel etc.

GPS tracking units cost in the region of $250 and upwards. Cheaper ones may be available online of course depending on your requirements, but ensure they meet all your criteria. Monitoring Fees per month are also necessary (unless you perform the task yourself) and of course, you need to decide what form the device will take whether the GPS chip is in  backpack, jacket,watch ,or chip embedded in a shoe, book etc.

Checking the technical specs is a necessity and you will need to ensure your retailer/provider confirms that:

• A-GPS is available.
• Provides an estimate the battery life of the device and replacement cost.
• Confirm that detailed maps are available of your area.
• Instruct you in the full use of the device and also the software.
• Outline any hidden costs such as renewal fees etc that can be expected.
• Confirm your warranty and also the location where out-of-warranty repairs take place, in case the device gets damaged.

Image via Wikipedia

GPS tracking is also possible at Google Latitude using certain cell phones,handheld devices, PDA’s and laptops. The service is not available worldwide, but is definitely a useful one.

Depending on the level of interest generated by this article, specific recommendations for GPS devices may follow (after I contact the relevant companies for permission to use their specs etc in my article).