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A GPS tracker for a car in real-time tracks the car's location using satellite signals. Different types of GPS trackers for cars are as follows.
Active GPS trackers
Active GPS trackers update the location of a vehicle in real time. They use cellular networks to provide constant tracking information. With active GPS trackers, people can see the exact location of a car at any time. They are ideal for monitoring vehicles in real time, like delivery trucks or rental cars. Active GPS trackers also have low power requirements. They need a constant power source from the vehicle's electrical system."Active GPS trackers offer live tracking updates and require a power source from the vehicle's electrical system."
Passive GPS trackers
Passive GPS trackers record location data for later analysis. They do not need a constant connection to a power source. Instead, they store location information on internal memory. Users can download the data after the trip is complete. Passive GPS trackers are useful for fleet managers who want to review travel routes or parents monitoring teen driving behavior. While passive GPS trackers have lower power requirements, they may miss real-time events.
Plug-in GPS trackers
Plug-in GPS trackers connect to the car's OBD-II port. They provide location tracking and vehicle diagnostics through the onboard computer. Some plug-in GPS trackers also use cellular networks for real-time updates. They are easy to install by plugging into the OBD-II port under the steering wheel. Many insurance companies offer discounts for cars with installed plug-in GPS trackers."Plug-in GPS trackers provide easy installation via the OBD-II port and additional vehicle diagnostics."
Wired GPS trackers
Wired GPS trackers are directly connected to the car's electrical system. They enable more complex installations and customizable tracking options. Wired GPS trackers can be hidden inside the vehicle for added security against removal or damage. They are suitable for tracking high-value assets or monitoring employee driving behavior. Because wired GPS trackers are difficult to install, they require professional installation."Wired GPS trackers offer advanced tracking features and hidden installation options for asset security."
Bluetooth GPS trackers
Bluetooth GPS trackers use Bluetooth to connect to mobile devices. They provide location tracking within a limited range, like locating a parked car. Bluetooth GPS trackers are not suitable for real-time tracking over long distances. Other technologies, such as Wi-Fi or cellular networks, are needed for broader coverage."Bluetooth GPS trackers offer location services within a limited range and are not suitable for real-time tracking over long distances."
Real-time car GPS trackers have different specifications that may vary depending on the manufacturer. Here are some common specs to look out for:
Operating System
Some of the advanced real-time GPS trackers for cars come with an operating system that allows for upgrades and customizations. The most common OS is the Android.
Battery Life
A good car GPS tracker should have a long battery life. The battery life of these trackers ranges from 1-2 days up to several weeks. The long battery life allows for long tracking duration without having to charge the device.
Waterproof
Some of the advanced car GPS trackers are waterproof. They have a waterproof rating of IP67 and above. This means that the device can be submerged in water for a specific duration without getting damaged.
Size
The size of the real-time GPS tracker for cars vary. The smallest trackers are usually the size of a quarter coin. Smaller trackers are discreet and can be hidden easily.
SIM Card
Most of the car GPS trackers require a SIM card to access the cellular network. Some of them come with an embedded SIM card that can’t be removed while others have slots for removable SIM cards.
Monthly Subscription
Some car GPS trackers require a monthly subscription to access their services. This is common in trackers that provide live tracking through a cellular network. The subscription fee is usually charged annually or paid every month.
Real-time tracking
Some advanced car GPS trackers offer real-time tracking. Users can track the location of their cars in real time through a web app or mobile app. The tracker updates the location every few seconds.
Geofencing
Many car GPS trackers come with a geofencing feature. This feature allows users to set safe zones. If the car moves past the safe zone, the GPS tracker will send alerts through email or SMS.
Speed Alerts
The GPS tracker can be set to monitor the speed of the car. If the driver exceeds the set speed limit, the device will send alerts to the owner. This is a common feature in car trackers used for fleet management.
Acoustic Control
Some of the advanced car GPS trackers have an acoustic control feature. The owner can listen to the surrounding conversations of the car through the built-in microphone.
Movement Sensor
The movement sensor detects when the car is in motion. If the car moves without authorization, the GPS tracker will send alerts to the owner. This is a good feature for theft prevention.
All the above features make a car GPS tracker effective and useful for different purposes like theft prevention, tracking, and monitoring.
Real-time GPS trackers require regular maintenance to ensure that they are working properly and giving accurate results. Here are some of the maintenance practices that need to be done:
It’s important to choose the right GPS tracker for the car in real time. Here is how to do it.
Coverage area
It’s important to consider the area where tracking is mostly needed. If tracking is needed in a wider area, then a tracker with a wider coverage area should be obtained.
Size and design
It's advisable to choose a GPS tracker that is small and has a simple design. This is because it will be easy to hide the tracker and it will be impossible for thieves to detect it.
Real-time updates
Different GPS trackers have different update frequencies. Some have an update frequency of 5 seconds while others have an update frequency of 60 seconds. It’s advisable to choose a tracker with a faster update frequency so as to get instant updates.
Battery life
Choosing a tracker with a longer battery life is important. This is because it will take a longer period of time before the battery is recharged and the tracking will continue without interruption.
Alerts and notifications
It’s advisable to choose a tracker that has alert and notification features. These features will notify the user in case of an emergency like theft or an accident.
Geofencing
Choosing a tracker with a geofencing feature is important. This is because the user will be notified if the vehicle goes beyond a certain area that has been set.
Ease of use
It’s advisable to choose a tracker that has an easy-to-use interface. This is because the tracker can easily be operated without any difficulties.
Additional features
Choosing a tracker with additional features is important. Examples of additional features to look out for are: historical data tracking, SOS buttons, and speed alerts.
Legal compliance
Considering the legal compliance of the GPS tracker before purchasing it is important. Different countries have different laws governing the use of GPS trackers. It’s advisable to choose a GPS tracker that is legal in the user’s country.
Many vehicles come with a built-in GPS tracker. If the vehicle doesn't have one, installing a DIY car GPS tracker is pretty straightforward. There are a variety of options available. Here is a quick overview of how to install a GPS tracker for a unsupported car GPS.
Choose a supported car GPS tracker. Some popular options include:
Once a GPS tracker has been selected, the next step is to install it. Here are the steps:
After installing the device, turn it on and follow the manufacturer's instructions to set it up. This usually includes connecting it to a mobile app or web platform so users can track the vehicle's real-time location.
Q1: How often should the tracker device be replaced?
A1: There are no set rules for replacing a tracker device. Technology changes and improvements happen. The old device may not work as well with new technology or have the same features as a newer one.
Another reason to replace a tracker device is if it stops working or is damaged. The duration of a car GPS tracker device depends on its condition and available technology.
Q2. Can users track multiple vehicles simultaneously using a GPS tracker?
A2. Yes, users can track several cars at the same time with a tracker. Some apps made for tracking allow following many cars. They also show if the cars are going over the speed limit. Businesses can track all their cars in one place. It helps know where all the cars are and how they are driving.
Q3: Can a GPS tracker for a real-time car be used in other assets, such as boats or motorcycles?
A3: A car's real-time GPS tracker can monitor other things, like motorcycles and boats. It is good for tracking where these things are going. But it needs to be installed the right way on other things besides cars.
Q4: Are there any legal restrictions on using GPS trackers in vehicles?
A4: Using GPS in cars is usually allowed. But there are rules in some places. The laws say to tell people if they are being tracked. Always check the local rules about tracking to be safe and legal.