Chapter 1
Getting to Know RTLS
In This Chapter
Figuring out how an RTLS works
Discovering the need for an RTLS
Applying an RTLS to various markets
A Real Time Location System (RTLS) enables you to find, track, manage, analyze, leverage, and otherwise use the information regarding where assets or people are located. Imagine being able to track people and assets at a local, national, or even global level. Retailers, military, law enforcement, emergency first response, healthcare, education, almost every business — even home life — can all benefit, or already do, by using RTLS technology. This chapter provides you with an overview of the RTLS — what it is and how it works — and describes who is using it and why.
Understanding How an RTLS Works
Location depicts or illustrates where something is well, located. With a Real Time Location System, or RTLS, you locate and track people and assets by associating a tag, a small wireless device, with each person or asset. Assets are items like laptops, projectors, equipment, and machinery. For example, you may attach a tag to office equipment (an asset) so that you can locate it within your office building; or you may carry an ID badge (a tag), and someone can locate you within the building.
Here are the parts of an RTLS, as shown in Figure 1-1:
Tags: A mobile device that’s enabled with location technology. A tag is usually small enough that it can be attached to assets or carried by people.
Location sensors: Devices that usually have a known ...
