Named Mr Hawk, it is a Web-based service from Sydney-based ASP SignalGuard Australia that utilizes the Trimble TrimTrac 1.5 GPS locator manufactured by US firm Trimble.

The TrimTrac, which sells from A$600 (US$451), is a small, lightweight self-contained unit utilizing both GPS and GSM technologies. It also has a number of features including a mercury sensor for motion detection and an AA battery pack making the device, which weighs 100g sans batteries, totally portable.

The TrimTrac also has firmware in it that can be programmed and made to behave in different ways and offer different features, said Dave Montgomery, a director at GeoSystems, the Australian distributor of TrimTrac.

"The ASPs each have their Web-based software applications to which they can add features to suit particular markets. The only limitation is that the features their Web site offers has to be based on the TrimTracs ability to do what they need it to do."

Paul Truscott, product manager at SignalGuard, said initial interest for its Mr Hawk service has been from a mixed bag of users. These include freight companies wishing to monitor staff, equipment hire firms, through to private vehicles owners concerned about both car and family security.