GPS Tracker: How They Work, the Benefits, and the Regulation

The development of digital technology has made our lives easier with the advent of many innovations, one of which is the GPS tracker. Yes, this device makes it easier for you to monitor and control transportation.

With a GPS tracker, the security of your transportation is enhanced. More than just an accessory for vehicles, this device can help prevent theft and monitor travel routes.

Although it may seem simple, this small device offers numerous benefits to its users. Let's discuss together about the GPS tracker from the basics, including its definition, how it works, the benefits of using it, and the regulations governing its use.

What is GPS Tracker?

GPS Tracker

A GPS tracker is an electronic device used to track and monitor an object using the Global Positioning System (GPS). The objects tracked by this device are usually goods, pets, and most commonly, vehicles.

With this device, users can monitor the position of objects through an application on a smartphone or a dashboard on the web. This allows you to easily monitor objects from a distance. The benefits are particularly noticeable in terms of security and surveillance.

How Does GPS Tracker Work?

GPS Tracker

GPS trackers generally work by receiving satellite signals to determine the location of an object. The data can then be accessed via a smartphone app or website. Here is how it works in detail:

- GPS captures satellite signals: Signals from satellites are received by the GPS tracker to determine location coordinates.

- Processing position data: The coordinates are calculated with high precision by the GPS chip inside the device.

- Sending data to the server: The coordinate data is then sent to the server via a cellular connection (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) or WiFi.

- Displaying to the user: The data is displayed in the form of a map on a smartphone or computer application so that the owner can monitor it directly.

The Benefits of GPS Tracker

GPS Tracker

Using a GPS tracker will provide many benefits, especially for enhanced security, efficient operations, and logistics tracking. Here are some of the main benefits:

Enhanced security

With an automatic GPS tracker, the security of your vehicle will be enhanced, especially in preventing theft. If your vehicle is not in a garage, immediately track its last location through the app or web dashboard. That way, you can find out where your car is.

Some models are also equipped with an engine cut-off feature. This feature serves to turn off the vehicle's engine remotely. That way, it will prevent your car from being taken further away by thieves.

Efficient operations

GPS trackers are widely used by logistics and transportation companies to manage travel routes, analyze driver behavior, and reduce operating costs. By monitoring fleet movements, management can reduce the use of congested roads to save time and fuel.

Additionally, this tool minimizes waiting time and can increase driver and vehicle productivity. All of these factors certainly contribute to more efficient operational costs.

Logistics tracking

GPS trackers are not only used in vehicles, but also in logistics services for packages. This is to ensure timely delivery. The Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) can be monitored more accurately.

An accurate ETA provides added value in the form of transparency. Customers can track the location of their packages in real time, thereby increasing customer confidence. Customer satisfaction will also build loyalty to the logistics services used.

Families looking out for each other

Although generally used for vehicles, GPS trackers are also useful for families. You can install this device on your child's school bag or on elderly people who often travel alone, so you can monitor their whereabouts at all times. 

This allows families to look out for and monitor the location of their loved ones. This provides a sense of security and peace of mind for other family members.

GPS Tracker Regulation

GPS Tracker

The GPS tracker uses communication technologies such as cellular networks 2G,3G,4G, and 5G)and WiFi, which operate within a specific frequency spectrum. In every country, any Bluetooth and WiFi-based wireless device is required to have a Radio Frequency (RF) Certification.

GPS tracker regulation requires all radio frequency-based devices to meet specific technical standards before being sold in the country. The certification ensures that the product meets government safety and quality regulations and does not interfere with other communication devices.

The certification process involves technical testing, such as frequency adjustments, safety checks, and compatibility with the surrounding environment. Once the tests are completed, products that pass are listed in a Test Result Report, which confirms that the product is safe and ready for sale. This report reassures customers that the product meets technical standards and is secure.

For companies wanting to sell a GPS tracker, Product Compliance Specialists are available to assist with this process. This service includes preparing technical and legal documents, conducting required testing, ensuring compliance with regulations, helping companies streamline the certification process, and giving consumers confidence in certified products.