Locator gives early warning to parents

Wherify Wireless Inc.'s Personal Locator gives us an early glimpse of live-asset tracking that promises peace of mind for parents, yet delivers a disconcerting message about some of the riskier, more predatory aspects of our society. A child-worn watch with lingering bulk and cost issues, the Locator allows parents to monitor a youngster's whereabouts with Web-based mapping. It also bristles with electronic locking and security features. Alarm bells sound if unauthorized unlocks are detected, and either parent or child can initiate 911 emergency requests in case of trouble. Voice communications are not accommodated, but numerical pages to the Locator are possible.

The Wherify scheme uses the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the Sprint PCS (CDMA) network to communicate between the Locator and Wherify's tracking center. The need for both GPS and code-division multiple-access systems brings with it considerable complexity. Altogether, 42 integrated circuit packages and over 580 electronic parts appear in the Locator. Advanced Micro Devices, Conexant, LSI Logic (CDMA baseband), Maxim, Microchip, National Semiconductor and SiRF (GPS) all contribute ICs. In addition to the numerous SMT assemblies, a pair of antennas, Li-ion battery, LCD, control buttons, piezoelectric buzzer and a locking apparatus compete for space in the oversized plastic-and-rubber case, resulting in a heft of 4.2 ounces (120 grams).

LSI Logic Corp. signed a license agreement with Qualcomm Inc. as early as 1997, but has reportedly moved to divest itself of CDMA baseband chip activity. In February 2003, Wherify announced that it had become a Qualcomm licensee, suggesting future changes for Wherify's technology. Evolutionary dual-radio architecture improvements or more-integrated designs based on Qualcomm's gpsOne would seem to be possibilities.

Teardown analysis suggests a manufacturing cost of roughly one-third the $400 Locator price, yet it is likely to be the $25 to $50 monthly service fee that drives Wherify's business model.

Although the Locator has the potential to be a life-saving product, its rather steep costs and not-so-child-friendly size remain as drawbacks. That said, the broader category of trackable assets-human or otherwise-presents compelling opportunities for the GPS and wireless-data ecosystem. In addition to tracking children, consumer use of the Locator can be extended to cars and pets, and commercial providers of tracking services already abound. Given further miniaturization, lower cost and a broader set of applications, location-savvy electronic watchdogs will proliferate. Are we ready?

David Carey is president of Portelligent (www.teardown.com). The Austin, Texas, company produces teardown reports and related industry research on wireless, mobile and personal electronics.

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