Want to improve your business's bottom line? Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) asset tracking, combined with the power of your smartphone or tablet, offers an affordable, efficient solution. By harnessing the power of BLE asset tracking, you can streamline operations, reduce losses, and unlock new levels of productivity.
What Is BLE Asset Tracking
BLE 101:What Is Bluetooth Low Energy
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a wireless technology designed for short-range communication with minimal power consumption. Unlike classic Bluetooth, which is used for continuous data streaming like audio, BLE specializes in short bursts of data transfer. This makes it ideal for applications like asset tracking, where small bits of location information are sent at intervals.BLE devices, such as asset tags, can run for months or even years on a single battery, thanks to BLE's power-saving features. Additionally, BLE connects faster and transmits data more efficiently than classic Bluetooth, resulting in near-instantaneous updates on asset locations.
BLE Asset Tracking Ecosystem
For the BLE asset tracking system based on a smartphone you need a minimal number of components: just BLE asset tags and a smartphone with the asset tracking mobile app.- BLE tags BLE tags are small, battery-powered devices attached to the assets. BLE tags broadcast asset identification using radio waves. These BLE signals are picked up by a smartphone and are processed by an asset tracking app. You can find more info on BLE tags here.
- Smartphones/Tablets Your everyday mobile devices become powerful tracking tools. With the right app, they act as Bluetooth receivers, constantly scanning for signals emitted by BLE tags within range.
- Asset Tracking Mobile App This is the brains of the operation. It interprets the signals picked up by your smartphone or tablet, determines which assets are in the area and sends data to a back end cloud software for storage and reporting.
You can find more info on the BLE asset tracking system components in this blog post.
Advantages Of Using Smartphones Or Tablets For BLE Asset Tracking
One of the major advantages of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is its compatibility with the devices you already use, such as smartphones and tablets. This eliminates the need to purchase specialized hardware for asset tracking. You can use smartphones and tablets for the efficient asset tracking by company employees, or install an IoT gateway application on these devices and turn them into stationary BLE gateways.Here are some of the reasons why you might want to use smartphones for BLE asset tracking:
- Cost-Effective Most of your employees already own smartphones, and can use them for BLE asset tracking. Or you can use an existing infrastructure of iPads or Android tablets for stationary asset tracking gateways.
- Convenience Your employees are already familiar with smartphones interface, and will adopt new asset tracking software faster.
- Mobility You can track assets anywhere: in the warehouse, in the yard, on the job sites, in the office, and even inside each service truck.
- Real-Time Updates Smartphones provide real time connection to a centralized asset tracking system for updates and data access.
- Scalability You can easily add more devices as your assets number and needs grow.
How Does Smartphone Based BLE Asset Tracking Work: Step-By-Step Guide
You can start tracking assets with the BLE tags and a smartphone app in four easy steps.
Step 1: Attach BLE Tags To Assets
Attach BLE tags to your assets with the screws, adhesive surface or zip ties. BLE tags are small plastic tags that can be fitted on all types of business assets: tools, small or large equipment, IT equipment, office furniture, and more.
Step 2: Install BLE Mobile App
Install a BLE mobile app on all smartphones and tablets that you will be using for asset tracking. You can use a QR Inventory mobile app, that works with BLE tags, NFC tags and QR codes.
Step 3: Link BLE Tags To Your Assets
Use a smartphone to scan an attached BLE tag and link it to the asset record in the cloud software. If you do not have a list of assets yet, you can enter them into the system and link to the BLE tags on the spot in a mobile app.
Step 4: Start Tracking!
Start tracking assets in real time using smartphones. Record assets that you are moving using bulk scanning, or take asset audit at each site with one click of a button in a mobile app. Send data to a centralized cloud system from the smartphone, and give live data access to all team members.Choosing the Right BLE Asset Tracking Application
Selecting the right BLE asset tracking application is crucial for the success of your asset management strategy. Here are some key factors to consider:- Features Determine the essential features you need, such as real-time tracking, geofencing, customizable alerts, and reporting capabilities.
- Scalability Choose an application that can grow with your business and accommodate an increasing number of assets.
- Ease of Use Opt for a user-friendly interface that your team can easily navigate and utilize effectively.
- Integration Ensure the application can seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, such as accounting and project management software.
- Support Look for a provider that offers reliable customer support and resources to assist you with implementation and troubleshooting.
- Cost Evaluate the pricing structure and compare it with your budget to find a solution that offers the best value for your investment.
BLE asset tracking system that comes with the QR Inventory has all features for a successful asset tracking implementation. The system is customizable, flexible and will grow with your business.
Real-World Applications Of BLE Asset Tracking
BLE asset tracking is revolutionizing various industries by optimizing operations, enhancing efficiency, and reducing costs. Here are a few notable examples.Construction & Contractors
Use BLE asset tracking system for tools, equipment, and materials management on the construction sites. Prevent equipment loss or theft, streamline inventory management, and improve overall project efficiency.Logistics & Warehousing
Use BLE inventory management system to monitor the movement of goods throughout warehouses and distribution centers. Create efficient inventory management process, reduce the number of misplaced items, and optimize warehouse storage space.Manufacturing
Use BLE for WIP tracking of the manufacturing processes. Track components, materials, and finished products on the shop floor to streamline production processes, improve workflow visibility, and minimize downtime due to the production bottlenecks.Healthcare/Hospitals
Use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tracking system to locate critical medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, IV pumps, and monitors. Ensure quick access to equipment for patient care, and prevent costly equipment loss. Additionally, track patient movement within facilities to enhance safety and streamline operations.These are just a few examples of how BLE asset tracking is transforming industries. By providing real-time visibility and accurate location data, this technology empowers businesses to make informed decisions, streamline operations, and ultimately improve their bottom line.
Conclusion
Smartphone-based BLE asset tracking offers a simple, yet powerful solution for businesses seeking to optimize asset management. By following the straightforward steps outlined in this guide, organizations can quickly implement this technology and reap the benefits of improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced visibility into their valuable assets.As BLE technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for innovation and growth in asset tracking are boundless, promising a more connected and efficient future for businesses across industries.
Ready to take the next steps? Contact us today for a demo of our powerful asset tracking system, and discover how we can help you optimize your operations for success.