Bluetooth tracker for finding things review. Personal detective for your child

There is a video: the Phone Halo company presented the world's smallest Button TrackR, which is a beacon in the form of a coin or a button. It can fit comfortably in a pocket, purse, used as a key ring, or anywhere else a regular coin can fit. The beacon has additional functions and works with all smartphones.

ButtonTrackR is a miniature tracking device for people, pets, things or vehicles - e.g. It comes with a convenient free app that you can install on your tablet or smartphone. The range of the device is approximately 30 meters.

One can track up to ten Button TrackR beacons simultaneously. Moreover, the application is designed to work with both iOS and Android operating systems. As the tracker moves away from your device, the latter will show a distance indicator and give appropriate signals.

Another interesting feature of the beacon is the ability to work in both directions. That is, if the tracker is near you, but you cannot find your smartphone, just press the beacon button for the smartphone to signal and attract your attention.

Since the Button TrackR beacon works with smartphones, the application is able to remember its location and show it on Google maps in the same way as trackers do. The beacon button can be attached to the bicycle frame or other surface either with regular adhesive tape or using a special connector for laces and rings.

In the application to each of the 10 beacons assigned to a smartphone or tablet computer, the user can attach a corresponding image. In this case, the application will give a signal if it is removed from any of them. You can also set different signals.

In addition, the application has a “ ” mode that will constantly signal if your smartphone is stolen. To do this, you just need to simply press the only button in the beacon.

No less interesting is the option for the beacon to respond if you and your smartphone are too far away from it. In this case, the collective tracking mode is activated and the smartphone of any user with the same application installed will send you signals indicating the GPS location of his location. However, no paid subscription to GPS services is required.

Technical characteristics of the beacon - Button TrackR buttons include work with the energy-efficient version of Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0 (LE), the ability to operate autonomously for one year without the need for replacement, as well as dimensions of 4 mm in thickness and 25 mm in diameter.

The company submitted an application to the innovative web project Indiegogo, where it intended to collect 15 thousand evergreen currency units. The developers are probably very disappointed to see the amount currently amounting to 2000% of what is needed. This is true - users were so interested in the miniature novelty that they shelled out almost a third of a million dollars from their bourgeois pockets.

For now, each user can leave their order to receive the world's smallest beacon - the Phone Halo Button TrackR tracker in August 2013. Moreover, to receive one unit you need to sponsor the project for 25 USD, for two – for 40, for five – for 90, and for 100 units – for 900 USD.

Materials used:
indiegogo.com/projects/button-trackr-find-lost-items?browse_v=old_no_dropdown&c=home

All purchases were not only successful, but also profitable. Thanks for this CashFoBrands!

Wi-FI router - Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3 128MB

Price: $28.70

Specifications:

Processor MT7620A 580MHz;
- ROM: 128MB SLC Nand Flash;
- RAM: 128MB DDR2;
- 2.4 Ghz Wi-Fi 2x2 (up to 300 Mbit/s);
- 5 Ghz Wi-Fi 2x2 (up to 867 Mbit/s);
- WAN (up to 100 Mbit/s);
- LAN x2 (up to 100 Mbit/s);
- No built-in HDD (you can connect an external one via USB);
- External omnidirectional antennas - 4 pcs.

On the back of the package everything is written in English. In the upper left corner there is a QR code for downloading a program to control the router from an Android mobile device.

Through the ventilation holes at the bottom you can see that the board occupies half of the router case. Probably, they left so much empty space for ventilation, because... There is no active cooling here. But even at the same time, the device does not heat up much, it is slightly warm.

Wi-Fi signal repeater - Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi

We are increasing the Wi-Fi coverage area to improve the quality of communication and the speed of your Internet connection!

This model connects to the main router via Wi-Fi and organizes its own wireless network, which allows you to increase the coverage area.

The device allows you to combine two or more routers into one network. Routers in the coverage area will automatically connect to the router whose signal at the connection point will be better. In this case, there will be one network, with the same name and the same password for access.

The ideal option is direct radio visibility between the source and the repeater, which is almost impossible to achieve in the real conditions of an ordinary apartment.

Specifications:

Possibility of simultaneous connection of 16 devices;
- Speed ​​up to 300 Mbit/s;
- Light weight (50 g);
- Special USB connector with a module rotating 180 degrees.

The repeater comes in a branded bag with a zip-lock fastener. Apart from the repeater itself, there is nothing in the package; the specifications and a QR code with a link to the proprietary MiHome application are on the back of the package.

The USB port here is used for two purposes - synchronizing settings with the Xiaomi router and powering the repeater. The specifications indicate the need to provide a current of 0.5 A, which most power supplies can handle. In reality, the maximum consumption level noted during testing was 220 mA. So, if necessary, you can organize mobile use with a portable power bank battery.

Xiaomi Mi Wireless Router Wi-Fi USB Adapter

This is a Wi-Fi adapter that allows you to connect your computer or laptop to a Wi-Fi network wirelessly. The adapter operates in access point mode and can distribute the Internet to several devices at once.

The adapter is very compact - less than a five-ruble coin. The kit includes a special strap for using the adapter as a keychain, which allows you to always carry it with you.

It will come in handy on vacation, at the dacha or at home where you can create a Wi-Fi network without buying expensive routers.

This mini router works with 802.11n/g/b protocols. Data transfer speed - up to 150 Mbit/sec. Supports automatic network detection and switching between them.

The adapter provides access through the application to a shared folder on your computer, which makes it easy to view and copy files from your PC to your mobile phone or tablet, wherever you are.

Bluetooth Dongle module 4.0 - ORICO BTA - 403 Mini USB

Specifications:

USB 2.0 connection interface;
- Supported protocols: Bluetooth 2.0/2.1/3.0/4.0/LE;
- Supported profiles: PAN, GAVDP, HFP, HID, EDR 3.0, A2DP, GATT, HCRP, OPP, ATT, AVRCP;
- Outdoor range - 20 meters;
- Data transfer rate: 3 Mbit/s.

The device looks like a compact flash drive. There is a blue LED on the case; when the device is operating, it blinks a couple of times per second.

We insert the device into the USB port of a computer or laptop. The system detects it as a new device and a prompt appears to install drivers. We agree. In a minute everything is ready. Next, we activate the search for new devices, turn on our gadget (Bluetooth headphones, smart, etc.), pairing occurs and that’s it. You can listen or transfer files.

Bluetooth receiver receiver with Handsfree function - TS-BT35A08 AUX

Specifications:
- Bluetooth: v3.0 + EDR, A2DP support;
- Bluetooth chip: OVC3960;
- Stereo amplifier chip: PT2308-S;
- Output: Jack 3.5 mm;
- Reception distance: up to 10 m;
- Power: 5V;
- Operating time: up to 8 hours;
- Sleep mode: yes;
- Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 11 mm;
- Weight: 12 g.

The gadget is designed to wirelessly receive an audio signal and transmit it to any device that has an AUX audio input.

If your car radio, active stereo speakers, headphones, old stereo or other playback device does not have bluetooth, then you can transmit sound from any phone or tablet through this receiver. Power is supplied from any USB connector.

Smart Bluetooth 4.0 Tracer GPS Locator

Anti-lost! Allows you, through a mobile application, to track the movements of your child, luggage, pet in noisy, crowded, cramped places and simply due to absent-mindedness.

It also effectively prevents theft by notifying everyone with a loud signal if the device moves away from you.

Specifications:

Bluetooth 4.0 low energy consumption.
-Range of action - up to 20 m without obstacles.
-Powered by CR2032 battery.
-Lightweight, weight - 10 g.
-Compatible with both Android (4.3 and above) and iOS (for IPhone 4S and above, iPad 3 and above).
-Works with the iTracing app. (or iTAG in the old way)

You need a smartphone or tablet with Android version 4.3 or iOS 7.0 (or higher) and Bluetooth version 4.0. We take the instructions and it contains QR codes for applications, iTAG is downloaded from some Chinese site.

button on Tracer GPS press for 3-4 seconds until 2 beeps sound - the blue LED blinks twice and thus turn on Tracer GPS. We return to the already installed application, turn on Bluetooth, find the iTAG device through the magnifying glass in the upper left corner, establish a connection with it and go to the settings.

You can add at least a dozen of these iTAGs and name each one accordingly.

1) Keys
2) Child
3) Child 2
4) Dog
5) Suitcase.

You can set features for each iTAG, you can enable “anti lost” - if the Bluetooth connection is lost within 10+ meters, then the iTAG starts beeping loudly, and a notification pops up on the phone and the selected melody plays.

I hope my article was useful. If you liked the article, then share it with your friends!

Children are completely unpredictable creatures. And sometimes it’s simply impossible to keep track of them, even if a moment ago you were holding his tiny hand in the supermarket line. At about the age of 4-6 years, when the baby begins to run away from his mother in search of something interesting in the neighboring yard, and in the summer he goes to the dacha and often hides behind the fence with the neighboring boys, or goes to school, immersing himself in a completely unfamiliar environment - namely During this period, careful supervision of the child is simply necessary.

Children do not yet think about the dangers of the world around them and do not know how to keep track of time, and their fast legs take them far beyond the boundaries of familiar territories. Even if a child is just learning to walk, he can crawl out of your field of vision unnoticed, so the tracker will also be useful for children aged 1 year and older.

And even if your child is supervised by the class teacher at school, and after classes is picked up by a nanny with documented qualifications, caring parents still often worry about the fate of their child. With a personal tracker for children, the parent's heart will finally calm down, since you will always know where and with whom your child is at the moment.

When a child gets lost, even if he is quite old, he begins to panic. And at such moments, you can even forget your own name in order to tell the security guard or passerby who volunteered to take part in the search for your mother. This is where a light and compact tracker comes to the rescue, which tracks the location of the child and turns out to be simply irreplaceable in extreme situations. With a tracker for children, you will always be calm about the safety of your child.

With the advent of new, advanced technologies, life has become easier. However, it is almost impossible to choose from the entire variety of modern models if you do not delve into the details and subtleties.

What types of trackers are there?

Tracking devices can be made in the following versions:

  1. Bracelet. An excellent and lightweight accessory - your child will love it for its original design. Doesn't look bulky and doesn't attract attention.
  2. Beacons, keychains and brooches, which are attached to a belt or backpack - an ideal solution for kids.
  3. Watch. The most expensive device, however, it is difficult to lose and it is almost impossible to guess that an ordinary wristwatch can also serve as a personal spy. Models are usually sold in a variety of colors, but this option is not suitable for small children.
  4. Mobile phone application. If both phones are modern smartphones, then this option is the most economical, but is suitable only for adult children. After all, phones, especially expensive ones, attract the attention of hooligans. In addition, mobile devices often run out of charge at the most inopportune moments.
  5. Multifunctional options, which combine a watch, some phone functions, the tracker itself and even an MP3 player.


How do tracking devices work?

The most sophisticated GPS trackers equipped with a display. From them you can call 4-5 numbers of loved ones, filled in the device’s memory, send SMS and even listen to the situation around the baby, thanks to the built-in microphone. Therefore, in an emergency, the baby only needs to press one button to connect with his family. Also, trackers often have an SOS button. After pressing the panic button, a notification is sent to all programmed numbers with data on the child’s location, which comes in the form of a link to a website with a mark on the map.

Such trackers require the installation of a SIM card from any mobile operator. To activate the device from the parent’s phone, you need to send a special code via SMS to the tracker number. Accordingly, installation of special applications is not required. The trackers operate on batteries or a charger. A tracker application for a mobile phone can be installed secretly and track the movement of an object on the application map.

To activate Bluetooth tracker, for example, the Guardian tracker from the Beluvv brand, you need to download the application to the parent’s mobile phone and activate the Bluetooth beacon chip located in the bracelet or brooch. You can connect trusted persons to track the child’s whereabouts: grandmother, uncle or brother.

Distinctive characteristicsGPS andBluetooth trackers:

  • durability due to reduced energy consumption - works without recharging for several months;
  • minimum time for sending coordinates;
  • movement speed tracking (GPS only);
  • compact size and lightness: the dimensions of the tracker are no larger than a matchbox. Such a “bug” can be used for secret surveillance.

Additional "chips":

  • SOS panic button - immediately sends location data to the phone in the form of a mark on the map;
  • smart energy saving: transmitting data while moving and pausing data collection if you stop moving, for example, during a lesson;
  • listening to the environment around the tracker;
  • waterproof;
  • fall sensor

It is important that the child likes the tracker, especially if it is a cool watch or a beautiful bracelet, so that he feels comfortable and safe. But he should not be haunted by the feeling that he is being tracked by the watchful eye of a compassionate grandmother or an overly caring mother. And as the child gets older, thanks to the tracker, which catches the eye of others, he may even become an object of ridicule.

Disadvantages of GPS Devices

A significant disadvantage for many parents is the high price, given that children always strive to lose or break something, and sometimes take it apart into pieces. The simplest model will cost from 2000 rubles, and with all additional functions - starting from 4000 rubles.

GPS beacons are good at detecting in open areas, which is why GPS navigators in cars are popular, which always quickly transmit a signal on a spacious road. However, with a child the situation is different. Since a curious and restless child often gets lost from sight not in an open playground, but in hypermarkets, rooms with dense walls, in the courtyards of densely built-up residential areas, as well as in rainy, foggy weather, in such conditions communication with the satellite may be interrupted. Use the device more carefully in winter - usually tracking devices can withstand frosts of up to 20 ° C. Therefore, in regions with harsh climates, get a tracker that can be attached under warm clothes.

In addition, GPS devices do not work if there is no mobile connection or the device's battery runs out. Some models collect and store information about the child’s location, and transmit it after turning on the network. What if you need to find your baby right now?

Features of Bluetooth trackers

Smart tracking devices that support the Bluetooth protocol differ significantly from GPS devices in their functionality. Such devices monitor a child who is with you within a radius of 70 meters (you can set smaller boundaries yourself). If he runs outside the safe zone, you will always be notified by a signal on your mobile device - phone or tablet. The Bluetooth tracker can be used during outdoor walks in the absence of mobile communications, in a hypermarket where GPS does not pick up, and in the courtyards of high-rise new buildings. It is also indispensable when traveling abroad. In addition, Bluetooth trackers are several times cheaper than a GPS beacon.

For example, the modern and inexpensive Guardian tracker from Beluvv is 2 in 1: a reliable tracker and a stylish accessory.


Tracker features
Guardian:

  1. The Guardian bracelet is made of silicone, and the tablet with the chip is made of polycarbonate, which does not contain harmful bisphenol A.
  2. This accessory is lightweight, comfortable and completely waterproof - you can even swim in a river with it.
  3. Stylish design and pleasant colors will please any child.
  4. Compatible with Apple mobile devices - to install you only need to download the application.

Main feature - The Guardian bracelet combines andBluetooth, andGPS beacon. As long as the child is within a radius of 60-70 meters from you, the signal is transmitted to your device via Bluetooth. As soon as he leaves this zone, a connection with the satellite is set up, and the GPS signal transmits to you data about the exact location of the child.

What else can you use the tracker for?

Trackers can be used to monitor the location of elderly people or pets, as well as in many other cases: if you want to track a bicycle or a motorcycle parked at the office. The detective tracker can be attached to a wallet or bag and complement the car alarm with a GPS tracker.

However, remember that the child needs to be trusted, and before you buy a tracker, be sure to explain to him why it is needed and what cases there may be that a small child does not even think about. Show what each button does and when to press it. And then this modern device will make your relationship with your child more trusting and warm, and you will always be calm about his health and safety.


Every person sooner or later begins to think about controlling their health. The ideal option is a full medical examination using specialized equipment and technology. However, it will not be possible to conduct such an examination constantly. Bluetooth trackers that monitor a person’s physical activity around the clock do an excellent job of solving this problem. They not only allow you to count the number of steps or calories burned, but also have a number of other functions:

  • heart rate monitoring, which is especially important for people with problems with the cardiovascular system;
  • diet monitoring is an innovative feature that is present in flagship models;
  • monitoring sleep patterns, as well as the ability to use the smart alarm function;
  • built-in personal trainer that reminds you when to warm up or do a specific exercise.

Distinctive features and functions of Bluetooth trackers

Despite the fact that a Bluetooth tracker can give odds to some new technologies, its main job is to motivate its owner to lead an active lifestyle and help control stress levels. Among the main measuring functions of this device are the following:

  • pulse determination and constant monitoring of indicators;
  • number of steps taken;
  • volume of calories burned;
  • quality of sleep and speed of movement.
Moreover, some advanced models can detect the amount of direct sunlight received or changes in oxygen levels in the air. That is why Bluetooth trackers are very popular among athletes, who, based on the data received, can keep a food or sleep diary.

Most models on the market feature integration with an application on a smartphone or tablet, thanks to which all received data is saved on a portable device. A special program will calculate activity, analyze changes in health and, if necessary, provide recommendations. For example, it can remind the user that he is not moving much.

Some models of Bluetooth trackers can monitor your health around the clock, even while you sleep. Such health monitoring not only helps athletes or active lifestyle enthusiasts, but also people who have health problems. That is why such devices are becoming more relevant and in demand every day. In addition, manufacturers pay close attention to the appearance of fitness bracelets, making them a stylish accessory that can fit into any look.

Features of choosing a Bluetooth tracker


Of course, the most popular and sought-after forms of Bluetooth trackers are watches and bracelets. However, there are also more original models on the market that resemble clips, tablets, and even headphones. Some innovative models can measure heart rate and other indicators using a special belt, while others feature built-in shoe sensors. In other words, a Bluetooth tracker is a device that monitors your health 24 hours a day.

When choosing the most optimal device, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

  1. Availability of a screen. It should be noted that most devices of this kind on the market do not have screens. Because of this, it is very difficult to quickly assess current results and you have to constantly look at the data on your smartphone. But without a display, charging lasts for a record number of days. Of course, there are models that have small displays that allow you to quickly evaluate the main indicators. There is a direct relationship between the screen size, the amount of data displayed and the price of the tracker. In order to ensure maximum ease of use and autonomy, some manufacturers have developed and used special types of screens. These can be Amoled displays or monochrome options. Color displays are more comfortable, but they drain the battery much faster.
  2. Additional features. Among the basic functions that all Bluetooth trackers have are a step meter and a calorie counter. The rest depends on the imagination of the developers. Recently, engineers have been paying close attention to such functions as sleep monitoring. Some gadgets can independently determine that a person has gone to bed, while others need to report this using a special button. The most advanced bracelets are able to independently determine what phase of sleep a person is in and can control the operation of the alarm clock in such a way as to wake the user up precisely during a light phrase. There are two more necessary functions that can be found on expensive Bluetooth trackers - GPS and altimeter. . Such opportunities will be relevant for lovers of active recreation or athletes.
  3. Protective technologies. Almost any similar device available for sale boasts a shockproof housing and dust protection. Some options are water-resistant, making them suitable for showering, swimming and even scuba diving. In any case, before purchasing, it is imperative to look at the operating conditions of the new gadget. This is the only way to understand whether it is suitable for use under water, what air temperature and humidity are optimal.
  4. Autonomy. Battery life is one of the most important criteria. For most models, charging once a week is enough, but if you have a color display, you will have to “replenish” the battery with energy every 3-4 days. It should be taken into account that the fewer functions, the less often you will have to charge the device. Some Bluetooth trackers with a minimum number of functions can last about six months on a single charge.
  5. Applications. The trackers themselves are not capable of storing data on the number of steps taken, distance, etc. For this, special applications are used that receive data from gadgets, store them and process them. Applications from different manufacturers vary: some provide data in the form of tables and graphs, others simply create charts or display information in a list.

Popular models of Bluetooth trackers


There are many Bluetooth trackers on the market today, which differ in their functions, design and other parameters. This includes a mini Bluetooth GPS tracker, a smart Bluetooth tracker and other varieties.
  1. Xiaomi Mi Band 2- the second generation of the popular tracker from Xiaomi has a small screen, thanks to which you no longer need to wear a regular watch on your other hand. The device is equipped with a touch button that displays all the necessary information and time. A distinctive feature of this gadget is its battery life, which is about three weeks. Among the sensors are a heart rate monitor, an accelerometer and a sleep monitoring function.
  2. Samsung Charm- the original model, which is famous for its nominal capabilities. The fact is that in this gadget the Korean company focused on appearance rather than functionality. Considering the fact that Samsung Charm was created mainly for a female audience, it has small dimensions and minimal weight. The bracelet boasts a stylish appearance, but you don’t need to expect any extra features from it: the accelerometer only counts steps, distance and calories burned.
  3. Withings Go- one of the most striking models that boasts record battery life. This model can be worn on hands, clothes or keys. A distinctive feature of Withings Go is the presence of an E-Ink screen. The tracker can track not only running, but also swimming. Withings Go is capable of analyzing sleep and displaying statistics in the mobile application.
  4. Moov Now features high measurement accuracy, which is made possible by using a nine-axis Omni Motion sensor. In addition, the device can track activities such as running, cycling, swimming or boxing. The proprietary application allows you to use several trackers simultaneously. One of the advantages of Moov Now is the presence of a virtual coach feature. In the application, you need to specify your physical data, type of workout and follow voice prompts.
  5. Xiaomi AmazFit- the first smartwatch of the Chinese company, which is a full-fledged fitness tracker. The presence of a ceramic case and Gorilla Glass provides the maximum level of safety and security. The watch not only displays notifications, but also allows you to interact with them. You can record music into the device's memory and listen to it during your workout.
Thus, Bluetooth trackers are unique devices that can monitor the body’s basic indicators and significantly simplify the process of playing sports. Almost every model on the market boasts an accelerometer and sleep monitoring function. And more advanced options - smart Bluetooth GPS trackers - have a display, a smart alarm clock and many other additional functions.

Every year, each of us loses at least a few items. And especially for such forgetful users, a US startup has developed Hiro, a Bluetooth tracker slightly larger than a coin.

What is this?

Hiro is a Bluetooth tracker that its creators claim is much smaller and better than other beacons on the market. It can be attached to any thing that you are afraid of losing, be it a set of keys or a laptop bag. It works in conjunction with a special mobile application, thanks to which the smartphone plays an alarm if you move away from Hiro. The user will also be able to find out the location of a forgotten item with a tracker attached to it. Hiro has a range of 200 feet (about 61 m). It can also give a signal, lighting up red thanks to the built-in LED.

Hiro, according to the developers, is the “most consumer-friendly” tracker. The easy-to-use gadget can be attached to any valuable item. It is housed in a moisture-resistant case and is available in five colors: white, black, blue, green and pink. The tracker dimensions are 25.3 x 45 x 5.2 mm.

Hiro is powered by a rechargeable battery that must be replaced. It will provide him with up to 6 months of work in standby mode and up to 3 months of work with intensive use.

Compatibility

As already mentioned, for Hiro to fully work, you need to install a special mobile application. It is compatible with iOS and Android devices and will be available for download once Hiro ships. Connection to smartphones and tablets will be carried out via the Bluetooth wireless interface.

http://youtu.be/NNNi-78O8Xg

Price issue

Users who supported the project at the funding stage can order Hiro for only 10-12 dollars. It is not reported what the cost of the Bluetooth beacon will be after the campaign is completed. Deliveries of devices to customers will begin in February next year.

Hiro's Kickstarter campaign ends in five days, on December 26th. But now the amount raised has exceeded $17,000, while the startup’s initial goal was $5,200.