Abstract: A method for establishing an association in a remote computer database between an asset and an electronic device monitoring the asset, while minimizing the chances of an error in the association. The method is capable of being implemented by one user largely automatically. Establishing the association enables reliable remote monitoring of the asset.

Abstract: In GPS based and other types of asset tracking system, event masking rules may be applied at asset tracking units and/or at a central station to determine whether to report events detected by the asset tracking units. The events may pertain to transportation vehicles such as truck trailers or cargo containers to which the asset tracking units are attached. The event masking rules may be defined at the central station and downloaded by satellite communication to the asset tracking units and/or the rules may be defined locally, at the asset tracking units.

Abstract: A GPS receiver is activated and it is determined whether the GPS receiver has received within a first predetermined attempt period of time a set of GPS signals that is adequate to determine a location of the GPS receiver. If not, the GPS receiver is deactivated for a first delay period of time. The GPS receiver is then activated again and it is determined whether the GPS receiver has received a complete set of GPS signals within a second predetermined attempt period. If not, the GPS receiver is deactivated for a second delay period of time that is longer than the first delay period of time. The GPS receiver is then activated once more and again attempts to acquire a complete set of GPS signals.

Abstract: An improved system and method for controlling the temperature of a resistance heater in a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (“HVAC”) system is disclosed. The control circuit and method includes three separate thermostats per heater leg and are designed to trip at three, sequential pre-selected temperatures to address certain issues associated with prior art designs for thermal overload protection. One of the thermostats is of an automatically resettable type wherein the remaining two are of a “one-shot” design and will remain open until there is human intervention.

Abstract: A computer system and method for a lessor to determine correct use tax on moveable equipment which may be subject to tax by more than one tax authority comprising inventory records for each individual item of equipment comprising an equipment identifier, equipment category, acquisition cost, depreciation, net book value, and branch; updating the inventory records to reflect each modification, improvement, disposition, and change in equipment category, and use tax paid; activity records comprising each lease event pertaining to each item of equipment; and a set of tax rules, which are periodically updated, for each taxing authority where any of the items of equipment may be leased or used, comprising sets of formulas reflecting relationships between tax due and acquisition of equipment, first leasing of equipment, subsequent leasing of equipment, length of lease term, age of equipment, and/or equipment categories.