Milwaukee TICK Tool and Equipment Tracker (4 Pack)

Tracking tools and equipment on a busy job site can be a persistent challenge. Enter the Milwaukee TICK Tool and Equipment Tracker (model 48-21-2004), a compact device designed to help mitigate the frequent frustration of misplaced tools. While it’s not a GPS tracker, the TICK leverages Bluetooth technology to provide location updates and deter theft. Here’s my comprehensive take on this promising yet imperfect gadget.

Design and Build Quality

The TICK is undeniably robust. With its low-profile design and sturdy construction, it can endure the inevitable bumps, drops, and harsh environmental conditions typical of any job site. Its weather, water, and dust-resistant properties are standout features, ensuring that the tracker remains operational regardless of where it's attached. At roughly the size of a poker chip but double the thickness, it’s versatile enough to fit in various locations, though its size can limit attachment options on smaller tools.

Attachment and Installation

One of the TICK’s strengths is its multiple attachment options. It features two mounting holes which can accommodate screws or zip ties, and it can also be glued or epoxied onto surfaces. This flexibility makes it relatively easy to attach to a wide range of tools and equipment. However, the lack of included mounting accessories is a minor inconvenience, especially given the price point. Once attached, the TICK feels secure and is not easily dislodged, adding to its durability.

Setting Up

Setting up the TICK is straightforward but requires some patience. The initial registration process involves using the Milwaukee One-Key app, which can be a bit finicky. After downloading the app, you need to create an account, remove the battery from the TICK, and then reinsert it when prompted by the app. The app detects the TICK, and you can then assign it to a specific tool or piece of equipment. While the setup process is not overly complicated, it’s not entirely intuitive either, and I found that having all necessary information at hand—such as serial numbers and model numbers—sped up the process.

Functionality and Performance

The TICK operates within a 100-foot Bluetooth range, which is both a strength and a limitation. Within this range, the TICK provides location updates to your phone and any nearby phones with the Milwaukee One-Key app installed. This crowd-sourced tracking feature is particularly useful on large job sites where multiple workers might pass within range of the TICK, thereby updating its location. However, this system also means that if your tool is outside the Bluetooth range of any phone with the app, the tracker won’t provide real-time updates.

For tools and equipment often misplaced on job sites, the TICK offers a practical solution. It allows you to see the last known location of the tool on a map, providing a helpful starting point for your search. This feature can be particularly beneficial for tools that are infrequently used or prone to being loaned out and forgotten.

Battery Life

Powered by a replaceable 3V lithium-ion coin cell battery, the TICK boasts a respectable run time of about a year. The ability to replace the battery is a significant advantage over other tracking devices that need to be discarded once their battery life expires. The battery replacement process is simple, adding to the TICK’s user-friendly appeal.

Real-World Application

In practice, the TICK performs well within its intended scope. It’s not designed to prevent theft actively but can deter casual “borrow theft” through its presence and geo-fencing capabilities. For example, if a tool equipped with a TICK leaves a predefined job site area, the app can notify you, providing a layer of accountability among workers.

However, the TICK is not without its drawbacks. Its reliance on Bluetooth means that it doesn’t offer the same tracking precision as GPS-based systems. If a tool or piece of equipment is moved beyond the Bluetooth range and doesn’t come into contact with another device running the One-Key app, its location data can become outdated. This limitation makes the TICK less effective for high-value tools or equipment that requires more stringent tracking. Additionally, the app must be running with Bluetooth and location services enabled, which can be a drain on your phone’s battery.

Conclusion

So, would I recommend the Milwaukee TICK Tool and Equipment Tracker? It depends on your specific needs. For individuals and smaller operations looking to keep tabs on frequently misplaced tools within a confined job site, the TICK offers a cost-effective and robust solution. Its durability, ease of battery replacement, and multiple attachment options make it a practical addition to your tool management arsenal.

However, for those needing real-time, long-range tracking capabilities, or for high-value tools that require more substantial theft prevention measures, the TICK may fall short. Its reliance on Bluetooth and the requirement for nearby app-enabled devices limit its effectiveness in these scenarios.

In summary, the Milwaukee TICK is a solid performer within its niche, offering valuable tracking capabilities for everyday job site use. Just be mindful of its limitations and evaluate whether it meets your specific tracking and tool management needs before making a purchase.