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Old 10-27-2021, 11:26 AM   #11
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Interesting suggestions. Power is obviously an issue for me; I have to store the SMB at times and changing batteries every couple of weeks is sort of feasible, probably easier than whipping out the solar panel or otherwise charging house batteries. Maybe I could rig a trickle-charger sized panel just for the tracker...anyone know how much they draw on average?

And thanks for the SPOT Trace recommendation Greg. I just assumed it would be WAY pricier for a plan so didn't even look. But it's actually cheaper per month than many many of the cellular trackers. Dead basic, but in my case that's fine...I'm not spying on leadfooted teen or wayward spouse. And the battery life seems good. I actually much prefer my Inreach over the SPOT X, but I use that when I'm not using the van so figuring out a way to leave it in there and powered was a no-go. I still might look into using an old iPhone; that can work but again it's just cellular and the SIM would cost about as much if not more than the SPOT Trace.

EDIT: Of course SPOT being SPOT, I can't find the second year price, and dealing with them is a PITA (like a cable company that mated with a cheesy used car dealer) but still perhaps cheaper. If they don't increase sub rates above $200/yr

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Old 10-28-2021, 11:31 AM   #12
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SPOT = (like a cable company that mated with a cheesy used car dealer). Spot on!
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Old 10-31-2021, 09:53 AM   #13
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I have 3x Tracki devices on my vehicles.
Low monthly fee
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Old 10-31-2021, 02:05 PM   #14
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We have a SPOT Trace in our van. Works great, and the batteries last for months.
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Old 10-31-2021, 04:53 PM   #15
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Location: San Jose, CA
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Optimus Tracker user here as well. 3 months now, did various tests. Works as advertised. Highlights are...
> Nice simple user interfaces on web n phone apps.
> Alerts by email and/or text about 30 seconds after leaving geofence.
> Tracking stored, then uploaded, when mobile data is available if none is available. Only tested this for 20 minutes in a metro area.
> Choice of ATT or Verizon 4G SIM card, be sure to ask before ordering. if not familiar with this choice, Verizon coverage is better in rural areas.
> Cust Service/Tech Support competent and had easy access.
> Placement will matter. Surprisingly, our unit works in the engine bay in metro areas, haven't tried in a rural area yet.
> 1-month battery, and/or direct wire to 12V, and/or USB-C charging plug
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Old 10-31-2021, 06:49 PM   #16
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Since I have an iPhone, I just bought an Airtag and hid it inside my van. Easy to use with the Find My app and so far so good. That combined with a remote controlled engine disabler makes me feel a little more secure if I have to leave it parked somewhere unattended.
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Old 11-01-2021, 07:14 AM   #17
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If the spot trace uses satellite, doesn't it need a clear view of sky?
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Old 11-01-2021, 10:38 AM   #18
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Remote Engine Disabler

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Originally Posted by campIV View Post
Since I have an iPhone, I just bought an Airtag and hid it inside my van. Easy to use with the Find My app and so far so good. That combined with a remote controlled engine disabler makes me feel a little more secure if I have to leave it parked somewhere unattended.

Tell me more about your Remote Engine Disabler if you don't mind.
Dave
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Old 11-02-2021, 06:05 AM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AdventureDave View Post
Tell me more about your Remote Engine Disabler if you don't mind.
Dave
I too would like to know more!
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Old 11-02-2021, 08:47 AM   #20
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Ditto.

I had zero thought about theft when I bought this rig. Now, thanks to the internets, I’m all worried.
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