BLE asset tracking explained
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) asset tracking uses small, battery-powered tags that broadcast a signal every few seconds. Fixed BLE gateways in the building detect the tag signal and report which zone the asset is in to Sensor-Online. Unlike GPS, BLE is designed for indoor environments where satellite signals do not penetrate.
How BLE tracking works in Sensor-Online
- BLE tags are attached to assets – tools, carts, equipment, documents
- BLE gateways mounted on walls or ceilings detect tags within 5-30 metre range
- Each gateway reports detected tags and signal strength to Sensor-Online via LoRaWAN or Ethernet
- Sensor-Online shows current zone location on a floor plan with history
BLE vs GPS – when to use which
- BLE – indoor tracking, short range, low cost per tag, no GPS signal needed
- GPS – outdoor tracking, vehicles and mobile equipment, position accuracy to metres
- Combined – GPS outdoor, BLE indoor handoff for assets that move between environments
See BLE tags and gateways or explore the platform.
