Real-Time Location Service (RTLS)

Definition - What does Real-Time Location Service (RTLS) mean?

Real-time location service (RTLS) is a service that uses electronic systems to locate people or things by means of small electronic devices installed on, implanted in or carried by people or objects. This is done in an attempt to determine the real-time identity and/or location of a person or object, either continually or when the tracking device is interrogated.

Techopedia explains Real-Time Location Service (RTLS)

The most frequent uses of RTLS are in health care, manufacturing, postal/courier services, the military, and research and development.

RTLS software applications include:

    • Tracking fleets of trucks and other vehicles
    • Complex navigation services

      1. Tracking assets and inventory throughout large organizations

        1. Personnel tracking, both on-site and in the field

          1. Assuring network security by only allowing network connection by users within specific geographical boundaries

            Location software monitors tracking devices using radio-frequency fingerprinting. The process detects radio frequency reflection, attenuation and multipath, while monitoring the signal strength of wireless devices. This is done because of how radio waves interact with the environment, including propagation through building materials, walls, doors and furniture.

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