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GPS Tracking Device - Boat Storage

King295

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Like many RDP members I store my boat year round at the river. I've been thinking of purchasing a GPS tracking device to use when my boat is in storage for those times when I don't get out there every so often to check on things. It will need to be able to run on GPS only without WiFi and have a decent battery life to cover a month or two period. Really all I want it do is is notify me via text or call if my boat has moved. Anyone using something along these lines?

All input is appreciated.
 

sintax

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SPOT Trace!!!!

***Edit, just noticed you said Trace, i'm not 100% sure how those work in comparison to the normal SPOT trackers i've used.***

SPOT (and most gps) need a fairly clear view of the sky. I'd be curious if keeping it in a metal box would do to the signal.

If the device was able to get a lock, all you'd need to do is power it with the USB port and you should be good I think. Another option might be a lojack type device, i think they make one for this purpose.
 

rivergames

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***Edit, just noticed you said Trace, i'm not 100% sure how those work in comparison to the normal SPOT trackers i've used.***

SPOT (and most gps) need a fairly clear view of the sky. I'd be curious if keeping it in a metal box would do to the signal.

If the device was able to get a lock, all you'd need to do is power it with the USB port and you should be good I think. Another option might be a lojack type device, i think they make one for this purpose.

Spot Trace has worked well in each type of facility I have used (Wood and Metal)

The 4) AAA Batteries get about 8 months before they need to be replaced. Or you just hard wire the battery, but IMO the GPS can be found quicker.

I get update location texts and emails each day from the multiple Spot Traces I used to protect my items
 
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Andy01

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There's one at west marine that is $99.00, supposed to be pretty good. I have no experience with it.
 

Done-it-again

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Is yours in a valet style storage? Then I can see having one. But not so much if in your own storage unit within a gated lot.

But hey, my sled is old and not worth much.......I just make sure the insurance is paid......
 

Rvrluvr

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I have live view gps....works bitchen
 

King295

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Not a valet type storage, I put my own boat away but it is not within a gated lot so I figured for a $100 upfront cost and $300 bucks a year why not have some added peace of mind when I'm not out there to check on things. I was looking at the Spot Trace which is on sale right now for $50 on their website. Looks like I will go this route and report back on how it works.

Thanks gents.
 

rivergames

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Not a valet type storage, I put my own boat away but it is not within a gated lot so I figured for a $100 upfront cost and $300 bucks a year why not have some added peace of mind when I'm not out there to check on things. I was looking at the Spot Trace which is on sale right now for $50 on their website. Looks like I will go this route and report back on how it works.

Thanks gents.

I pay $330 for 2 Spot Traces each year
 

Icky

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I have a spot Trace in mine. Went back after a month to do the manual update ( plugged into a computer) required to change the settings, and the battery was still good. It doesn't have service inside my unit, but as soon as I took it out it started alerting me.

I'll update you in another month or two when I have time to go back and check on it. Hopefully it's still charged and the boat is still there.
 

King295

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I pay $330 for 2 Spot Traces each year
Just found a 50% coupon for the annual service of $300 so should come in around $200 for the first year. I can live with that.

I have a spot Trace in mine. Went back after a month to do the manual update ( plugged into a computer) required to change the settings, and the battery was still good. It doesn't have service inside my unit, but as soon as I took it out it started alerting me.

I'll update you in another month or two when I have time to go back and check on it. Hopefully it's still charged and the boat is still there.

Great info, keep the updates coming, I'm sure a lot of RDP inmates wouldn't mind the small annual cost for the added peace of mind.
 
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Rsqfxr

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Ive had spot trace now for almost a year, works nice, it sends a notification daily to let me know it’s working, and everytime my boat moves it sends me a notification, I also have it hardwired
 
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jpf091959

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I have used a spot trace for 3 or 4 years. Every year, Spot tries to raise the annual fee and every year, I tell them to cancel the service and every year they hold the pricing. I think I pay $112/yr.

The only problem I have had is with the lanyard to connect to my house battery. It don't work. I just run it on double "A" batteries and have to replace them every few months. My boat fits in my garage so it is easy.

The SPOT Trace is $50 on the website.
https://www.findmespot.com/holiday/...MI6cKbmpPC1wIVFL3sCh11UgLbEAAYASAAEgIHAPD_BwE
 
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