Bluetooth Low Energy, or BLE, is a wireless technology devised for low energy consumption. Typically used for transferring data within a short range, BLE devices are perfect asset-tracking solutions for enterprises. BLE tags, for instance, can be placed on assets and other nearby BLE-enabled devices to detect signals. This allows businesses to monitor the real-time location of assets.
In addition, BLE also collects data related to the use of assets. BLE tags provide information that can be further used for optimizing maintenance schedules to improve the organization’s overall efficiency.
To that end, some of the key features/characteristics of BLE include:
– Real-time asset tracking within a premise
– Low-powered wireless technology
– Typically designed for short-range communication
– Secure and cloud-based
– Productivity monitoring
– Alerts and alarms
– Web console and mobile console for asset tracking
– Email/SMS notification
How Does BLE Work for Asset Tracking?
Asset tracking applications with BLE beacons and tags are becoming increasingly popular today. BLE is an innovative technology explicitly developed for low-power devices. As it stands, it is the best choice for asset tracking applications as BLE tags are small, and their batteries typically last for years.
Essentially, the asset tracking tags broadcast signals. Nearby devices can detect the signal, and receivers can use those signals to determine the location of asset tags.
That said, there are two distinct types of asset tracking systems:
– Active
– Passive
Active asset tracking systems utilize battery-powered tags that broadcast signals periodically for nearby stations to receive. Passive asset tracking systems utilize ambient radio waves or RFID-powered tags that reflect signals for nearby devices to receive.
BLE asset tracking systems are competitive and superior to others. They are relatively less expensive, easier to implement, and have extended battery life. Moreover, BLE tags are easier to read regardless of devices supporting Bluetooth 4.0 or above.
Key Components Of BLE
BLE asset tracking components consist of 3 core elements:
– BLE Tags
– BLE Readers/Receivers
– BLE Tracking Platforms
BLE tags are the most important parts of the BLE asset tracking system. They act like data transmitters. The tags are small, battery-enabled devices that emit signals that BLE-enabled devices detect. They use BLE beacons for tracking the location of different assets like pallets, containers, and equipment. Favourably, BLE tags have some major advantages – they are rugged, low-powered, and inexpensive to implement.
BLE readers are used for communication with BLE tags for tracking the real-time location of assets. BLE readers scan Bluetooth signals and lock onto them for a specific device to receive its data. They are of different types, such as gateways, smart devices, and readers. Smart devices like tablets and smartphones are often used as BLE readers outfitted with a mobile app for asset tracking. This makes for an easy-to-implement and cost-effective BLE asset tracking system.
BLE gateways are sophisticated receivers used both outdoors and indoors. They can be mobile or fixed, usually installed in hallways or doorways.
Finally, BLE asset tracking platforms are applications, including software, that work like central databases to store and manage all the asset data that the receivers collect from the beacons and enable the management of hardware components. The software application also ties the BLE tracking system in its entirety to enable users to have real-time visibility of assets.
The application includes a user interface to let users view the asset data and perform necessary functions to add, edit, or delete assets. It also includes features to manage asset locations and generate alerts and notifications in the event of missing data or unauthorized location. Most importantly, software applications interface with allied systems like ERP to give a complete view of the organization’s assets.
Why Is BLE Popular for Asset Tracking?
Low Power Consumption
Power consumption is a major area of concern while rolling out new technologies. Beacons are not an exception. Traditional Bluetooth devours excess power, which drains batteries quickly. However, BLE is power-efficient, lasts longer, does not need frequent replacement, and accrues cost savings for the business.
Superior Sustainability
BLE assets are cost-effective and practical. They reduce the impact on the environment too. As the world relies more on technology, it is only prudent to consider its environmental implications. Battery-enabled BLE tracking is an intelligent and sustainable answer.
Wider Coverage Area
Bluetooth beacons can transmit data across a greater distance, unlike most location tracking systems. For instance, BLE tags can receive data from up to 300 meters, and the device’s signal strength is stronger than most of the other technologies. As such, BLE tracking is used in various settings, including warehouses, manufacturing plants, and other large indoor spaces.
Accuracy of Positioning
Accuracy is the key benefit of BLE beacon technologies. BLE trackers pinpoint locations on objects within feet’s distance, making them the optimum for location-based applications and real-time asset tracking. BLE beacons combine sensors and radio frequencies to detect asset locations. They help create navigation systems and indoor mapping to provide accurate directions.
Lower Ownership Costs
Cost is a key concern when choosing technologies. BLE tracking systems are less expensive and cost-effective. The system hardware is less expensive and can be scaled easily to fit all businesses. Moreover, the infrastructure requirement is meagre, which reduces the ownership costs.
Versatility
BLE beacons are versatile. They can be easily attached to any asset, from office furniture to industrial equipment, making them perfect for an array of applications. In addition, these are smaller and more discreet devices, which makes them less interfering. As such, they prove to be more versatile solutions for businesses that need to maintain their assets and improve overall inventory management.
Scalability
Considering that BLE beacons are deployed incrementally, they are easily scalable. Its flexibility also makes a BLE tag perfect for companies looking to deploy advanced tracking solutions.
Improved Security
With an increasing threat of data breaches, it is important to ensure system security. Luckily BLE beacons are safe and secure as data is fully encrypted, and access is only available through authorized devices. As a result, hackers cannot access data stored and transferred on the BLE beacons. Also, the devices can be configured with an existing security system. This ensures seamless BLE tag tracking within the security infrastructure.
Conclusion
With all the above-outlined BLE asset tracking benefits, it is no wonder that businesses are increasingly adopting this technology. After all, the more efficient an asset tracking system, the more cost savings a business will enjoy in the long run. Join hands with QodeNext to get started with BLE asset tracking. Reach out to us today!
