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February 24, 2008

WorldTracker GPRS Review

Average Owner Rating: 3.5 of 5 (based on 4 owner ratings)
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Current Rating: 3.5 (4 votes)

Verdict: Like Having Your Own Personal Spy Satellite

WorldTracker GPRS

The WorldTracker GPRS is a portable, Assisted-GPS tracking device capable of sending real-time position reports every 15 seconds. The battery operated device sells for around $650, works indoors and out, operates on the the GSM network, sports a high-performance SiRF StarIII receiver, is water resistant, and can alert if you if the device moves into or out of a pre-defined area.

Is the WorldTracker GPRS the ultimate child/teen/adult/vehicle tracking device and worth the hefty price tag? Read on.

1. Features

  • Self contained device fits in the palm of your hand. No external antenna needed, just turn it on.
  • Location information is reported using a direct GPRS data connection.
  • Mapping for the entire world using the latest cutting edge 3D maps from Google and Microsoft.
  • Real-time location reports every 15 seconds.
  • Geofence feature sends alert if the target moves from pre-defined area.
  • GPS assist function using GSM network, boosting location sensitivity when GPS signal is temporarily lost.
  • Durable, lightweight, water-resistant housing.
  • Enhanced sensitivity for indoor and outdoor reporting.
  • Tri-band GSM 850/1800/1900 MHz for worldwide coverage.
  • Can be hooked up to 12 volt DC for permanent hardwire connection

2. Specifications

GPS Receiver Sirf StarIII 20-channel receiver
GPS Sensitivity -159db
Antenna Internal GSM antenna and active GPS patch antenna
GSM Transceiver Frequency Tri-band 850/1800/1900 MHz
Battery Type Standard: 1100mA, Optional: 1800mA
Battery Life 22 hours when sending 1 report every 60 seconds.
Size 64.66mm(L) x 43.19mm(W) x 22.81mm (H)
Weight 85g
Operating Temperature -5 ~ +60 degreed celsius

3. What's in the Box

WorldTracker GPRS with AC Adapter
Figure 1: WorldTracker GPRS with AC Adapter

The WorldTracker GPRS includes the following items in the box:

  • WorldTracker GPS unit
  • Cellular SIM Card
  • AC Adapter

WorldTracker GPRS
Figure 2: WorldTracker GPS

The WorldTracker GPS measures 64.66mm(L) x 43.19mm(W) x 22.81mm (H) and fits easily in a coat pocket, purse, backpack, etc.

WorldTracker GPRS, Front
Figure 3: WorldTracker GPRS, Front

The front of the WorldTracker GPRS has two LEDs, used to indicate power and reception status.

When the WorldTracker is charged, the power LED displays light green. When the WorldTracker is charging, the power LED displays solid green.

WorldTracker GPRS, Left
Figure 4: WorldTracker GPRS, Left Side

The WorldTracker GPRS is about 2.5-inches long and just under an inch thick.

WorldTracker GPRS, Right Side
Figure 5: WorldTracker GPRS, Right Side

There are only two physical controls on the WorldTracker GPRS, both of which are located on the right side of the unit: a power switch and SOS button.

When pushed and held down for 2 seconds, the SOS button will cause the unit to send 20 location reports,2 minutes apart. These location reports will display on your map page with an SOS alert message.

The SOS button can also be configured to send a pre-defined email or SMS message. The button can also be configured to setup an instant geofence around your current location. For example, you could set a geofence around your parked car, and leave the WorldTracker in the glove compartment to receive an automatic alert if the vehicle moves.