Gemalto, a company specializing in digital security, today made it known that its Cinterion M2M business is providing wireless connectivity for Cargo Tracck's Invisible Tracck device. Invisible Tracck is currently being used in a pilot program to prevent illegal deforestation in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil.
The device uses Gemalto's Cinterion M2M technology, along with local cellular networks, to send location updates from sensors in trees to a central server. This enables officials to remotely track trees that have been removed from protected areas.
Invisible Tracck was created to supplement traditional satellite surveillance and radio monitoring as it can detect unauthorized logging activities missed by these technologies. The device itself is smaller than a deck of cards and is therefore easily hidden and it leverages the Cinterion BGS2 module, cutting-edge localization algorithms and new radiation exchange data (RED) technology, which extends wireless communications range in low signal areas.
This means that the Invisible Tracck device is capable of sending alarm notifications and exact location information to officials when it passes within 20 miles of a cellular network, allowing law enforcement and IBAMA, the Brazilian environmental protection agency, to respond more or less in real time. Furthermore, the rugged durability and sophisticated power management system of Gemalto's Cinterion M2M solution allow the device to operate for over a year without the need for a recharge.
"Gemalto's Cinterion M2M was vital in enabling us to develop a tracking and tracing solution rugged enough to withstand the heat and moisture of the Amazon," said Marcelo Hayashi, general manager of Cargo Tracck, in a statement. "Their M2M module is unique because it's small for inconspicuous deployment in the field and power efficient enough to operate over long stretches of time without recharging batteries, which is crucial when tracking trees in remote areas."
Earlier in January, Gemalto announced a collaboration with Yokosuka Telecom Research Park, FUJITSU TEN, a developer of advanced safety systems, and ERTICO to launch Japan's first eCall testing facility. This will allow automotive manufacturers in the country to meet the European Union's new emergency response standards.
Edited by
Brooke Neuman
