In the world of fleet management and asset tracking, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. That’s why we decided to put Samsara’s AT11 Asset Tag through its paces in a real-world scenario. Our journey took us from Preston, across the Pennines, to Goole on the other side of Leeds, providing valuable insights into this innovative tracking solution.
Asset Tag test route. Image Samsara
The AT11: A Technical Overview
Before diving into our test experience, let’s explore the technical aspects of the AT11. This small but mighty device uses Bluetooth technology, but with a twist. Samsara has significantly enhanced its range, allowing it to be detected by compatible devices from much greater distances than standard Bluetooth. This extended range is crucial for its effectiveness in real-world applications.
The AT11 operates by broadcasting an encrypted device ID to other Samsara gateways within the network. These gateways can be other Samsara devices installed in vehicles or fixed locations. The system then uses this information to estimate the device’s approximate location, providing a comprehensive view of asset movements and locations.
AT11s are part of the Samsara platform, allowing organizations to leverage a variety of reports and the ability to receive alerts when the AT11 is detected inside or outside of a geofence.
Samsara Asset Tag AT11. Image: Samsara
The Journey Begins
Our test started in Preston, with the AT11 tucked away in the glovebox of our test vehicle. It’s worth noting that we deliberately chose not to install any other Samsara devices in the car, pushing the AT11 to perform without the support of a dedicated base station. This decision was made to simulate a scenario where the tag might be used in areas without extensive Samsara infrastructure.
Surprisingly, just two minutes into our journey, the AT11 made its first contact. It had pinged off someone’s base station, though the system doesn’t reveal whose – maintaining privacy while still providing location data. This early detection was an impressive start, considering we were in a residential area with no known Samsara users nearby.
The Motorway Marathon
As we joined the M6, the AT11 pinged again, demonstrating its ability to connect with passing vehicles or nearby infrastructure. The journey across the M62 provided further insights into the device’s capabilities. Despite travelling at motorway speeds, the AT11 continued to register multiple pings, effectively tracking our progress across the country.
This performance was particularly noteworthy given that we weren’t using any dedicated Samsara equipment. The AT11 was relying entirely on chance encounters with other Samsara devices in vehicles or buildings along our route. The frequency of these connections speaks volumes about the growing Samsara network and the effectiveness of the AT11’s extended range capabilities.
Rural Challenges and Urban Opportunities
Upon reaching our destination near Goole, we encountered one of the limitations of the system. In this rural area, with no Samsara devices nearby, the AT11 went quiet. This silence continued until we rejoined the M62 an hour later, where it once again began registering its location.
This experience highlighted an important point: while the AT11 is incredibly effective, its performance is optimised when used within range of other Samsara devices. In urban areas or along major transport routes, where Samsara equipment is more prevalent, the tracking is near-continuous. In more remote locations, updates may be less frequent.
The Return Journey
Our return trip mirrored the outbound journey in many ways, with regular pings along the motorway. However, a 50-mile stretch of roadworks provided an unexpected insight. The reduced speed and increased vehicle density in this area led to fewer pings, possibly due to signal interference or simply fewer Samsara-equipped vehicles in the slow-moving traffic.
Image: Samsara
Real-World Applications
This test journey illuminated several key applications for the AT11:
- Inventory Management: In large warehouses or across multiple sites, the AT11 can help locate specific items quickly and efficiently.
- Fleet Optimisation: By tracking the movement of assets between vehicles or locations, companies can gain insights into usage patterns and optimise their resource allocation.
- Loss Prevention: While not designed as a theft prevention device, the AT11 can significantly reduce losses due to forgetfulness or misplacement.
Limitations and Considerations
It’s important to note that the AT11 is not designed as a real-time tracking device for theft prevention. Its effectiveness relies on being within range of other Samsara devices, which means there may be gaps in coverage, particularly in remote areas.
However, when used as part of a broader Samsara ecosystem, with vehicles equipped with Samsara’s AG or VG gateways, the AT11’s performance is significantly enhanced. In these scenarios, the tracking becomes much more consistent and reliable.
Image: Sansara
The Technical Edge
The AT11’s impressive performance is underpinned by some serious technology. Its enhanced Bluetooth capabilities allow it to be detected up to 300 feet (91 meters) away in enclosed spaces, and up to 1000 feet (305 meters) with a clear line of sight. This extended range, combined with its low power consumption, makes it an ideal solution for long-term asset tracking.
The device is also built to withstand tough conditions. With an IP67 and IP69K rating, it’s dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. This durability ensures it can be used in a wide variety of industrial and outdoor settings.
Conclusion
Our real-world test of the Samsara AT11 Asset Tag revealed a device that offers impressive capabilities for businesses looking to track and manage their assets more effectively. Its ability to provide location updates without dedicated infrastructure, relying instead on a growing network of Samsara devices, is both innovative and practical.
For fleet managers and businesses with valuable mobile assets, the AT11 represents a significant step forward in asset management technology. Its combination of extended range, durability, and smart alerting features make it a versatile tool for reducing losses, optimising resource use, and in proving overall operational efficiency.
While it’s not a silver bullet for all tracking needs, particularly in very remote areas or for real-time theft prevention, the AT11 excels in its designed purpose. When used as part of a broader Samsara ecosystem, it becomes an even more powerful tool, offering near-continuous tracking and valuable insights.
As the Samsara network continues to grow, the effectiveness of devices like the AT11 will only increase. For businesses looking to stay ahead in asset management, the AT11 is certainly a technology worth considering. It’s a small device that could make a big difference to your bottom line.
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