Different types of GPS tracking devices for vehicles
GPS tracking unit
GPS abbreviated as Global Positioning System is a navigation device which is used to track device movement and location. GPS is a cluster of 24 satellites orbiting the Earth. The unique signals transmitted by the satellites allow GPS devices to decrypt the precise location of the satellite to calculate the basic equation of time and position. The recorded information is either stored within the unit or transmitted to a device connected to the network equipped with a mobile radio receiver, GPS modem or GPS antenna.
Read below to find out more about different types of GPS tracking devices for vehicles:
Most of the GPS trackers meant for cars and other means of transport are quite smaller than a cellphone. Many devices which draw power from the car do not need large batteries to operate and some devices need large internal batteries. In real time, one can get different types of tracking devices depending on the type of vehicles. These devices work similar to the GPS navigation devices and are categorized into two main types each with distinct benefits and drawbacks.
A. (1) Passive GPS tracking devices:
Passive GPS tracking device allows tools to track the vehicle live, stores information of vehicle’s position on a hard drive or a memory card with add-ons but it doesn’t broadcast live information to anywhere. These devices are common among fleet vehicles since it can record vehicle’s position, drivers speed, direction and other information for later retrieval. This device can be simply placed in or on the vehicle. In order to access the information, you can directly plug in the device into a computer and download the information after the vehicle has returned back home.
Advantages
- Data is stored directly on the device and hence there is no need of device linking. Information can be downloaded by connecting it to the computer.
- Simple and easy to use
- More affordable than active trackers as they do not require monthly subscription fees
- These devices are resistant to bad weather conditions and hence can be attached inside or outside of the vehicle
- Cheaper on the wallet than active devices
Disadvantages
- Don’t get real-time data about the location and movement of your vehicle and need to wait for the vehicle to reach home
- Not convenient to use as you need to connect the device to the computer and download the information
- Not compatible with all computers and operating systems
- Difficult to locate theft or any other mishap happening at the moment
- Limited storage space
Read also: Geofence : What it is, How it Work and Why it is Effective?
(2) Passive GPS tracking options:
- LandAirSea 3100-INC
- Battery power lasts up to 7 days at a maximum of 4 hours driving per day
- Compact, lightweight and can be mounted inside or outside of the vehicle by powerful magnets
- Not compatible with Macintosh operating system
- Comes with internal antenna, records location, time and distance traveled
- GPS Tracking Key
- A tiny tracker that can be held in the palm of your hand
- Weather resistant
- GPS data recorded every second
- Capacity to store 2 weeks of data
- Strong magnetic mount
- No monthly recurring fees
- Data Logger Super TrackStick
- Capacity to capture weeks to months of data
- Magnetic mount for installation within or outside the vehicle
- No monthly fees required
- Weatherproof case
- The best option for government agencies, police and security personnel
B. (1) Active or real-time GPS tracking devices:
These devices constantly transmit real-time data through cellular and satellite networks and instantly shows you your vehicle location. These devices are the best choice for businesses who want to improve delivery efficiency and monitor their employees. Some of these devices need to be plugged into the port of your vehicle.
Advantages
- You get real-time details
- Convenient to use as you don’t need to detach the device from the vehicle and connect it to the computer for downloading
- No compatibility issues
- Geofence abilities
- Prevent theft and recover stolen vehicles
Disadvantages
- Expensive than passive devices
- Need to pay recurring monthly fees
- Certain devices need to be connected to a port which might not be available in certain vehicles
(2) Active GPS tracking options:
- Go Track EZ
- Plugs into the OBD-II port on your vehicle
- Functions in all passenger vehicles manufactured in 1996 or newer
- AT&T nationwide data network coverage
- Backup battery
- 24/7 vehicle tracking
- Compatible with any PC, Android, iPhone, Blackberry
- LandAirSea Silver Cloud
- Does not draw power from the vehicle requires rechargeable batteries
- Installed inside or outside the vehicle using a magnetic mount
- Fastest real-time updates within 3 seconds
- A rechargeable battery capable of providing 5-6 days of tracking
- Receive alerts by Email and text message
- Unlimited historical data stored on a secure server
- MasTrack OBD-II Tracker
- Need to plug in directly to your vehicle’s OBD port
- No wiring required
- Simple plug and play install and easy to use
- Effective for business and families
- Features: Speed warning, hard braking, geofence, check engine, battery backup
Indian GPS market
Indian navigation and Vehicle Tracking (VTS) Market reported a total shipment of 64,392 units in 2018 representing an increase of 50% as compared to the previous quarter. TRIMBLE followed by GARMIN and MAP MY INDIA emerged as the market leader.
In 2013 VTS represented 54% of the total market share registering an increase of 33% in terms of unit shipments over the previous quarter. Whereas GPS experienced a growth of 24% in the current quarter. However, VTS accounted for 55% of the total market share in 2013.
In 2018 it has experienced 15% to 20% growth compared to 2013 statistics in terms of VTS devices.
Key highlights
- More than 60 vendors shipped Navigation and Vehicle tracking systems.
- Top three players together constitute 54% of the total market share.
- Around 42% of GPS are enabled with MICRO SD memory slot.
- In GPS segment, multimedia feature captured 70% of the total market share.