Losing one's keys or other important items happens more often than we like and always at the worst possible moments. Fortunately, however, there are now technological innovations available that stop us wasting time unnecessarily. Geo-locating vital objects is continually becoming easier with the growing development of WiFi technology.

Geolocation is a growing practice used to find the location of a place. Long before the widespread use of navigation systems, everyone had to use a map to find their way to a specific geographical point. This often led to stressful moments and a lot of wasted time. GPS systems that use satellites to display a location's coordinates have, however, revolutionized this practice. Similarly, by geolocalizing an object using GPS technology or Bluetooth one can display its position on a plan or map. This method of using satellite information, however, has two major disadvantages. It is energy intensive and does not always work well inside buildings but these disadvantages can be overcome by using WiFi technology.

Wireless geolocation - how does it work?

To give the position of an object, the geolocation system relies on the networks or WiFi terminals that surround it. The geolocation system contacts a database which indicates where wireless network access points are located in the immediate area. This allows the system to calculate an object's position and indicate it on the map or plan. The more signals the system receives, the more accurately it can give a position. The Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) is also a determining factor. If the signal is weak, the object is further away from its source. On the other hand, if it is strong, it means that the object is close by. The data collected focuses on providing a current location and can even operate inside buildings. The use of the WiFi to pinpoint an object's position relies on one prerequisite: the geolocation system must be able to communicate with the object. In other words, it must be able to detect the object and receive or retrieve information about its location. Objects must, therefore, be equipped with compatible modules.

Applications for both the private and professional fields

Locating an object via a wireless network is an easy way to find things on a daily basis. One returns, for example, to the case of the lost car keys (although using Bluetooth technology here can be just as effective). But geolocation can also be applied to handbags, wallets or mobile electronic devices. This technology is also becoming increasingly effective in professional fields. For example, companies could spend less time and money locating goods held in its premises while stores and shops could offer connected baskets that enhance the personal shopping experience of its customers.

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