FreightWatch Adds Sensor Options to its Industry-Leading Geo F2 "Pill Bottle" Covert Tracker

AUSTIN, Texas, March 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- FreightWatch Security Net (FSN), a leading provider of battery powered, embeddable location trackers and online monitoring solutions, announces two new sensor peripheral products for its Geo F2 "Pill Bottle" Tracker. With the addition of integrated sensor technology, the Geo F2 location-based solution can be positioned in facilities and shipping containers easily and unobtrusively while providing reliable communications to report changes in environmental conditions such as temperature, light and humidity.

The Geo F2 is an industrial grade assisted-GPS tracking product, incorporating a module based on Qualcomm's QSC6055™ chipset, designed and manufactured by FreightWatch. The Geo F2 can be hidden in a pill bottle or equally small enclosure enabling a variety of covert tracking and monitoring solutions. With the optional integrated ZigBee® radio receiver, the Geo F2 becomes a remote, battery powered, sensor data collection and transmission platform capable of relaying environmental data in real time.

One of the new FreightWatch sensor products is the F2 Temperature Probe peripheral, which attaches directly to the Geo F2 external 18-pin connector, and monitors the internal temperature of sensitive cargo. Typically mounted on the surface of a Geo F2 carrying case or enclosure, this self-contained configuration measures ambient temperature (+/- 1/2 degree C accuracy).

The other new FreightWatch product is the Digi International XBee™ Sensor, a commercial off-the-shelf wireless device that reports ambient temperature, light and humidity via short range (150 feet) ZigBee-compliant RF communications. In a sealed trailer or shipping container, multiple XBee™ Sensors can be placed throughout the cargo so that all report real time environmental conditions through a single Geo F2 tracking unit also packed in the load. The light sensor can be used to detect when container doors are opened. The temperature sensor gives assurance that prescribed conditions remain consistent throughout the container.

The Geo F2 is the newest product in the FreightWatch line of covert trackers featuring superior location accuracy and reliable reporting in impaired environments. With the addition of battery pack options, the Geo F2 'Pill Bottle' Tracker sets new covert tracking price-performance benchmarks for portable devices. The Geo F2 is designed with resellers and systems integrators in mind. FSN's experience with custom device engineering can increase the value of the device's performance based on specific needs.

"Embedded cargo tracking in enclosed trailers is the most demanding environment for a location tracking and monitoring device," said Bill Games, President, FreightWatch Security Net. "With the addition of the Geo F2 sensor peripherals, FreightWatch offers comprehensive location and environmental conditions for comprehensive supply chain visibility."

"We are pleased that FreightWatch Security Net is utilizing the unique capabilities of Qualcomm's gpsOne™ position-location technology in their products," said Daniel Obodovski, Director of Business Development at Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. "The combination of FSN's vision, integration of sensor transmitters and receiver, and Qualcomm's innovative technology offers a unique blend of accuracy, visibility and reliability for a variety of customers in the supply chain and logistics, and covert tracking arenas."

"FSN's focus on and dedication to cost-effective cargo tracking motivates us to design industrial-class products that have application in an increasing range of wireless machine-to-machine (M2M) applications," said Games. "FSN's modular design and development methodology enables FreightWatch to quickly deliver customized enhanced AGPS tracking solutions for a growing base of customers."

About FreightWatch Security Net

FreightWatch Security Net, a member of the FreightWatch Group of companies, provides covert GPS tracking products and online "track and trace" services that help secure valuable assets like in-transit cargo and surveillance of suspect vehicles. As a manufacturer specializing in portable, battery powered tracking devices that work where traditional GPS technology does not, FreightWatch is the trusted choice of high-value shippers, the transportation industry and law enforcement agencies. Whether it is asset location assurance, supply chain visibility or recovery of stolen goods, FreightWatch covert tracking solutions provide a reliable layer of security for a widening range of applications. Together with FreightWatch International, FreightWatch technology enables a total solution for "securing global trade." Founded in 2005, FreightWatch Security Net is based in Austin, Texas, and provides cross border tracking systems to its affiliates worldwide. For more information, visit www.freightsecurity.net.

Qualcomm is a registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. QSC6055 and gpsOne are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For more information, visit www.qualcomm.com.

SOURCE FreightWatch Security Net