The Trackstick Pro from Telespial Systems is a tiny GPS recorder intended as a low-cost alternative to real-time tracking devices. It’s a GPS data logger capable of continuously recording its own location histories for extended periods of time. The Trackstick Pro can be hard-wired, covertly installed, or run off the included cigarette lighter plug. It’s a solution for companies and individuals looking for a way to track, record, and validate the location of anything that moves. It receives signals from 24 satellites orbiting the earth. With this information, the Trackstick can precisely calculate its own position anywhere on the planet to within 50 ft (15 m). It integrates seamlessly into Google Earth for the best available mapping of the planet. The maker says no other device can give as much detail regarding location histories. Its software integration with Google Earth ensures advanced tracking technologies are available at the click of a mouse. The Trackstick Pro’s micro computer contains special mathematical algorithms that can calculate how long it has been standing still, and it can accurately time and map each and every place it has been. Route tracing overlays a purple line on the map indicating where a vehicle has traveled. Targets on the 3D maps indicate the location, time and duration of each stop the vehicle made. The exact speed and direction of the vehicle can be determined instantly at any point on the driving route. All information is neatly organized within the Trackstick Manager and on Google Earth for later review. The device has an integrated USB port which makes the downloading of all recorded histories fast and easy. It records its own location, time, date, speed, heading and altitude and temperature at preset intervals. With over 4 MB of memory, it can store months of travel information. All recorded history can be outputted to the following formats: RTF (detailed text file with .html map links); CSV (comma separated values for spreadsheets); HTML (web page with graphics and maps); and KML (proprietary Google Earth file). Trackstick Pro is said to be simple to use. It can be mounted anywhere as long as it has power, and it will continuously record its own location and route history for as long as there is power to the device. It’s easy to remove from its included cradle, which itself can be permanently mounted to the vehicle, and a built in alarm will notify you of any power interruptions. The weatherproof case has an eyelet for tamper-resistant labels which makes visual inspections easy when driving habits of employees come into question. Cost is US$250 in small quantities down to $169 for larger quantities (1000+), not including shipping. Orders should be made directly from the manufacturer’s website noted below.