A Low Cost Open-Air Tracking System Based on an Empirical Path-Loss Model

Abstract

Tracking small marmosets over a large area represents a significant challenge for researchers. The native habitat for such animals are generally unsuitable for GPS based location systems, and the size of the animals prevents large, feature-rich collars from being utilized. Additionally, costs and feasibility prevent researchers from continuously monitoring these animals on the ground. This paper proposes a new system of tracking that offsets complexity from the collar onto fixed Base Stations (BS). The simplified collars emit a ping that multiple BSs then log along with the power of the signal. Combining the data from different BSs allows for the determination of the Signal of Interest (SOI). It was found that using three BSs provided enough accuracy to determine the location of an SOI within an accuracy of 2 m² over a roughly 450 m² area.