The invention relates to a locating device for remote location of an object,
and a method for operating the locating device, particularly with a view to recovering
objects which are stolen. The locating device comprises a mobile communication
unit which is placed together with the object. Data concerning the communication
unit's position are determined and registered by means of the existing infrastructure
in a cellular network of which the communication unit forms a part when it is activated.
The communication unit can be activated to a standby mode and deactivated to a
sleep mode. The invention is characterized in that the communication unit is activated
and deactivated depending on a time-variable signal generated in the locating device,
thus providing a reduction in the communication unit's average power consumption.
The signal is preferably derived from the locating device's acceleration.
