Implementing IoT asset tracking can significantly improve your operations. From keys and computer screens to warehouse machinery, most businesses rely on various tools to get the job done.

Therefore, companies need to track where their assets are. They must know who is using them and what condition they are in. This directly impacts their bottom line and security. However, just the thought of keeping an eye on hundreds of company assets can be overwhelming.

Although some still rely on pen-and-paper methods or extensive spreadsheets, there is an easier way…

Thanks to the advancement of the internet of things (IoT), real-time applications can be conducted remotely. In fact, this allows for 24/7 monitoring of anything from equipment and tools to employees and vehicles. So, what are the benefits for businesses?

Whether a business employs ten people or a thousand, reliable IoT asset tracking makes management much easier. Furthermore, stakeholders know exactly where company assets are at all times. This greatly improves security standards.

Additionally, the right devices improve visibility. They offer a comprehensive, visual view of inventory without requiring employees to have actual eyes on it.

With IoT asset tracking and monitoring, businesses can see where assets are at each stage of the supply chain. Consequently, they use data to ensure equipment gets to its destination in a good condition.

Asset monitoring offers end-to-end visibility across the entire supply chain. As a result, it provides real-time data on product movement, delays and potential disruptions. Moreover, this transparency improves business decision-making and risk management, boosting customer satisfaction.

Once companies have their tracking systems in place, they can save time on tedious inventory checks. Most importantly, this happens without compromising the safety and security of their valued equipment.

Therefore, there are many advantages to implementing tracking and monitoring systems within a business. However, when investing in this technology, companies should be aware of the different IoT solutions…

Barcode tracking is an easy and cost-effective way for businesses of all sizes to manage their physical assets.

First, data is assigned to a unique barcode. Then, it is printed and affixed to an asset. Afterwards, the barcode is scanned using a scanner or mobile device. This extracts the data, which is sent to a computer to be decoded and stored in a database.

In its simplest form, radio frequency identification (RFID) is a way of automating physical asset management and locating processes.

Specifically, it loads an RFID tag with data and attaches it to the business equipment. This data can include name, condition, amount and location. As the RFID tag sends out radio waves, the reader captures the stored data. Finally, it collects this information in a tracking system where it can be monitored and actioned.

A small GPS device is attached to the asset. This electronic device can be self-powered with batteries or connected to the asset’s power supply. Once switched on, the device transmits data through the network back to the tracking system.

Furthermore, the benefit of this system is that it can communicate across vast distances. Consequently, it keeps accurate, up-to-date logs for everyone using it.

One of the first considerations for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) producing hardware is where the asset will be tracked. Indeed, this tends to dictate the kind of communications link the device will require.

For example, a system tracking outdoor movement in transit will likely require a combination of communication links. Additionally, it might need more complex PCB and cable assemblies.

Moreover, the precision required for location information affects the choice of communications link. For ultimate accuracy, ranging based on time-of-flight information from multiple beacons is needed.

Plus, any electronic devices connected to the internet are common targets for hackers.

These hackers can implant malware, steal data or disrupt business operations. Therefore, every IoT-connected device should be equipped with cyber security features to prevent this from happening.

As such, OEMs must also consider installing robust security software onto devices. Ultimately, both the software and hardware in electronic security devices should undergo thorough testing and vulnerability assessments.

Real-time asset tracking is becoming increasingly popular in many sectors, such as the security industry. Now, thanks to advancements in IoT, these security applications can be carried out instantly and remotely.

With the internet of things set to be bigger than the mobile revolution, IoT hardware will allow OEMs to get a slice of the action. That is where EC Electronics comes in…

We are dedicated to supporting your IoT product from concept to reality. Furthermore, we bring it into the market competitively through our product realisation service.

With almost 40 years’ experience in electronics manufacturing services, we have been involved in a wide range of exciting commercial projects within the IoT industry. From PCB assembly to full electronics box builds, we offer a range of best-in-class services to OEMs.

We only manufacture electronics to the highest quality levels, including IPC-A-610 standards for PCB assemblies and IPC/WHMA-A-620 for cable assemblies. Consequently, this ensures optimal performance and reliability every time.

Want to discover more about our electronics manufacturing services and how we can help with your next IoT electronics project? Contact us at +44 (0)1256 461894 or sales@ec.local.