Efficient 2G network download
The 2G network is persisting in large areas such as Europe, because it provides such an energy efficient way of remotely transferring data in the field. This means that GPS tags using 2G can be smaller than regular GPS-GSM wildlife tags, important for researchers studying birds that cannot carry larger tags, while providing all the functionality possible with other network bands.
Easy online data access
You can use the Lotek Cellular Web Service to view and download all the data; as well as locations on maps, activity and other sensor data can be downloaded, plus the cell voltage can be checked and the schedule optimised according to the current light exposure. Data can be exported as KML files for GoogleEarth or CSV for analysis.
Remotely upload new schedules
With 2-way communications, you can change the interval at which the tags record locations and other data, or other user-chosen parameters (e.g. new virtual fence) while the tag is in action. So if you see that the bird is moving into an area you are interested in, you can increase the GPS locations, according to the behaviour you are wanting to record.
Scheduling
You can choose how often to take a GPS location and how frequently this is uploaded to the server for you to inspect. Likewise environmental and behavioural data can be recorded at independent intervals. This will allow you to optimise the amount of data recorded according to how well the tag is being charged by sunlight.
Sensors
Receive temperature, light, activity and mortality data
Virtual Fences
Program different GPS schedules according to whether the bird is within an area specified by you. For example, you may not need so many locations when the bird is near the nest, so you have longer intervals between GPS locations, but when it leaves the area around the nest you can record locations more frequently.