Putting SilverCloud Sync Tracker To The Test
The global marketplace is always bringing the best live GPS trackers to consumers and businesses. Some of these new innovations fizzle out quickly, while others become technological darlings of the gadget world. For every iPad that revolutionizes the market, there are hundreds of products such as the Microsoft Kin or Google TV. The writers at GPS Tracking Review are in no way saying the Microsoft Kin or Google TV are bad products, but simply stating they never lived up to their hype, falling far below consumer expectations. That is why when review and technology websites began blogging extensively about a new GPS monitoring device called the SilverCloud Sync Tracker, the experts at GPS Tracking Review decided this was a device that needed to be investigated and reviewed.
Popular Features Of SilverCloud Sync Tracker
- Real-Time GPS Monitoring Solution
- Updates As Fast As Every 5 Seconds
- Simply Plug-In To On Board Diagnostics Port
- Online Based Satellite Mapping Program
- Lifetime Access To Past Driving Records
- Automobile Idling Documentation
- Speed, Low-Battery & Geo-Fence Alerts
How The SilverCloud Sync Tracker Works
SilverCloud Sync Tracker is a real-time GPS tracker that connects directly to the On Board Diagnostics Port of any automobile. The monitoring device pulls power from the battery of the target vehicle, and offers a tamper warning alert to notify fleet managers if a driver is trying to manipulate the device. Once the device is connected to the target vehicle the GPS data is transmitted to a LandAirSea server where the user can access the position of the automobile in real-time. This GPS data is also stored for life on the server, giving users the ability to access historical driving records of employees. With a web-based platform utilizing Google Earth and Google Maps, the SilverCloud Sync Tracker data can be viewed from any personal computer, Mac operating system, smart phone or tablet device with Internet connection.
Claims & Specifications
The vehicle management specialists at GPS Tracker Shop claim the SilverCloud Sync Tracker is the ideal solution for fleet management and monitoring applications. They state that the device is user-friendly enough for consumer use, but powerful enough to meet the stringent requirements of massive fleet operations.
| Dimensions | 1.8″ wide; 2.18″ long; 1.08″ deep |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to 75°C (-22°F to 158°F) |
| Power Source | 9-17 volt (OBD-II Port) |
| Typical full-power current | 70mAh at 12 volts DC |
| GSM Channels | 850/1900 (United States) 900/1800 (Europe, Australia, Asia and the Middle East) |
| Communication Protocol | GPRS (UDP), SMS |
| Update Frequency | Based on service plan:
|
| Historical Playback | Unlimited historical playback stored at server |
| Reporting | Individual vehicle report, enhanced vehicle report, start/stop report, mileage and more |
| Diagnostics | Blinking LED, SMS or TCP diagnostic messages |
Testing The SilverCloud Sync Tracker
Secure Attachment
The first thing tested was the easy plug-in connection of the device to an On-Board Diagnostics computer system of a target vehicle. Initial skeptical thoughts by the team were that the tracker would be loosely connected, causing the device to fall from the OBD port. However, the team was shocked by how snug and secure the SilverCloud Sync Tracker attached to the OBD Port during testing. The experts at GPS Tracking Review can confirm that the SilverCloud Sync Tracker firmly and securely connects to the OBD Port of a vehicle with ease.
Web-Based Monitoring & Accuracy
One of the very first things that stuck out in a positive way about the SilverCloud Sync Tracker was that the device did not require any software to download. Web-based interfaces are the most user-friendly for both consumers and businesses regardless of tech-savvy expertise. Although some security professionals suggest web-based platforms are not as secure as software-based platforms, the SilverCloud Sync Tracker combats that notion by being one of the only real-time systems with its own dedicated, encrypted and secure servers created to protect personal GPS tracking system data.
After viewing the live tracking locational information, it was clear that the SilverCloud Sync Tracker data was very accurate and reliable. All reported locations were a spot on (including addresses), and the speeds traveled were also precise. However, what really stood out to the experts at GPS Tracking Review was the simplicity of the web-based platform. The control panel was very simple to understand, generating reports was easy, and a live chat option was available to provide 24/7 technical assistance to anyone with questions. The web-based interface also provided a hybrid satellite image, 2D view and 3D view using a free download Google Earth plug-in. Not to mention, the vehicle driving reports were both simple and detailed, depending on the user’s preference.
Alert Notifications
Both the speed alert and virtual boundary alert features were activated during testing, and both quickly reported the moment the vehicle being tested exceeded the pre-set 70mph speed alert, and left the pre-designated geographical area.
Overall Performance
The SilverCloud Sync Tracker is one of the best real-time fleet tracking devices on the market tested by GPS Tracking Review specialists. The device is accurate, reliable, easy to use and affordable (GPS Tracker Shop currently has the device on sale for $219.00 per unit). The monthly data plan options range from $19.95 for unlimited updates every 5 minutes to $49.95 for unlimited updates every 5 seconds. All of the claims produced by GPS Tracker Shop were tested, and the experts at GPS Tracking Review have to admit that the claims were not smoke and mirrors, actually having merit.
| Pro | Cons |
| Affordable real-time tracking hardware & data plans. Accurate, reliable & great support. User-friendly web-based platform. | No ability to covertly hide GPS tracker on a vehicle. |
Overall 5-star Rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Tested Element | Result |
| Software: Rating includes features, accessibility, user set up, multiple device management, test reports, historical playback, alerts & more. | |
| Accuracy and performance: Rating includes live updating, location accuracy, network coverage, placements in vehicles, international ability, battery life & power consumption. | |
| Appearance: External design, water-proofing, magnet strength, durability, weather resistance, buttons, lighting and aesthetics. | |
| User-Friendliness: ease of use, learning curve, instruction manual, quick start guide, activation, device set up, hardware and software friendliness. | |
Conclusion
Although this GPS tracking system was clearly designed for fleet management and business monitoring applications, the web-based interface is simple enough for any consumer GPS application. Not to mention, the GPS tracker cost is in the budget of most everyday families. SilverCloud Sync Tracker is a well-designed, accurate fleet tracker device that can surely help any company with a desire to gain additional oversight of employee driving activity or reduce fuel consumption. The product delivers at a high level and is definitely within the price range of anyone seeking a solid fleet tracking system at a reasonable cost.
