iPoint RTLS is a positioning system that utilizes WiFi rather than GPS to accurately pinpoint location. Utilizing mesh networking technology, iPoint is among the most flexible and effective real-time location systems available. iPoint is quick to deploy making it a practical solution for temporary use or large scale deployments.

The general operation of iPoint RTLS is shown in the diagram below. Operation includes the following key functions:

• Orange - Mesh AP automatically configure and send status to the iPoint Server.
• Green - Tags measure AP signal strength and send measurements to the iPoint Server.
• Blue - iPoint Server calculates the tag location and sends alerts to the SMTP Server.

iPoint uses a specially designed mesh network to transfer tag measurements to the iPoint Server. Because network cables are not required, deployment is quick and flexible. AP can be easily added or moved to improve coverage and performance. With a mesh network, it is practical to use RTLS in temporary deployment scenarios. iPoint mesh networks are also effective for large scale deployments.

The diagram below shows an example of a simple deployment. Mesh AP shown in red are positioned about 25 meters apart. Mesh AP need only to be plugged into a wall socket. Network cables are not required. One AP called the Gateway AP is connected to the iPoint Server. The status of all AP can be viewed on the iPoint Server.

iPoint calculates location using an RSSI location algorithm. RSSI provides better accuracy indoors than other methods, such as TDOA, because concrete walls and steel frames produce high levels of multi-path interference. The iPoint location engine overcomes problems commonly associated with RSSI algorithms such as fast fading and antenna gain normalization. The resulting location achieves accuracy of 3~5 meters depending on network coverage conditions. Tag location is displayed immediately after measurement updates are received at the iPoint Server. Maps and tables indicate tag details such as location, type, map name, and battery level. Docking windows are used to configure and view the status of maps, AP, zones, alerts, and asset tags. The window layout can be arranged for easy viewing. User defined alerts notify of important information such as a shortage of assets in a storage room or an unauthorized entry into a restricted area. Alert notifications are sent as an e-mail and can be received by a cell phone or personal computer.

A minimum count alert occurs when the number of tags in a zone drops below a user defined level. The effected zone flashes red on the map and an e-mail notification is sent.
A maximum count alert occurs when the number of tags in a zone rises above a user defined level. The effected zone flashes red on the map and an e-mail notification is sent.

Location updates are written to log files so that they can be referenced at a later time. This is helpful when checking where an asset was at a specific time days or even weeks before.