The short version
A vehicle tracking system has three parts: a tracker in the vehicle, a mobile connection and a platform you log in to. The tracker receives signals from GPS satellites and uses them to work out its own position. It then sends that position over the mobile network, using a SIM card, to the platform, where it appears on a map. The satellites only broadcast signals. They do not know your vehicle exists.
The three parts
- The tracker: a small device wired into the vehicle or running on its own battery. It contains a GPS receiver and a modem. See our product range.
- The mobile connection: a SIM in the tracker carries each position report to the platform. Without one the tracker can still find its position but cannot tell you.
- The platform: the live map, journey history, alerts and reports on desktop and mobile. See fleet tracking.
Does GPS tracking need internet?
Finding the position does not need the internet or a mobile signal, because it comes from satellites. Reporting the position does, because the tracker has to send it to you. In an area with no mobile coverage the live map cannot update until signal returns. Some trackers store positions and send them later, so ask your supplier how a unit behaves in poor coverage. See also our guide to the 3G switch-off in Ireland.
How accurate is it?
The official GPS website says GPS-enabled smartphones are typically accurate to within about 5 metres (4.9 m) under open sky, and that accuracy gets worse near buildings, bridges and trees (gps.gov). A tracker inside a vehicle can be affected by where it is fitted. Signals can be weakened or blocked in underground car parks and covered areas, and the platform will then show the last position it received.
How often does it report?
Trackers report at set intervals. More frequent reports give a more detailed route but use more mobile data and, for battery-powered units, more battery. See tracker battery life.
GPS trackers and Bluetooth tags
Bluetooth tags do not report a GPS position over their own mobile connection. They rely on other people’s phones passing nearby to relay a location, so they work in busy places and poorly on a quiet rural road. They are not designed for fleet tracking. Phone-based tracking is different again: Trackmatic Driver uses the driver’s phone, while an installed tracker remains the right tool for round-the-clock tracking and stolen vehicle recovery.
What you see on the platform
Live locations, journey and route history, and speeding, movement and geofence alerts. The exact features depend on the equipment you choose. To find out what suits your vehicles, talk to Trackmatic or see the pricing page.
Want a price for your vehicles? Request pricing, get a quick quote or call 01 254 8367.
