Gps tracker with internal antenna

Types of GPS tracker with internal antenna

A GPS tracker with internal antenna comes in different types, which include:

• Portable GPS trackers

  Portable GPS trackers come with internal antennas and are very light and small. They are often put inside a purse or pocket, worn on the body, or attached to personal things. Their main job is tracking the location of people or things. Due to their ability to track location, these portable GPS trackers are used to monitor the location of kids, pets, and valuable belongings. They are also used in the health sector to track the location of patients with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

• Vehicle GPS trackers

  Vehicle GPS trackers are tracking devices installed in cars and other vehicles to monitor the vehicle's location and movements. The internal antennas in these trackers help them get location data quickly without taking up much room. Because of this, the vehicle's GPS tracker can be very small and hidden from people. This makes it hard for thieves to remove or disable them. These vehicle GPS trackers allow managers to track and monitor the location and movement of their fleet in real time. This helps to optimize routes, reduce delays, and improve the overall efficiency of the fleet. The location information collected by these vehicle GPS trackers can also be used to analyze driving behavior such as speeding or idling. This data can be used to encourage safe driving habits and reduce fuel consumption.

• Asset GPS trackers

  These are GPS devices used to monitor the location and movement of important things like machinery, equipment, trailers, shipping containers, and other important assets. By using the internal antenna, the asset GPS tracker can be small and use little power. This is important because it allows the GPS tracker to be small and last for a long time on a single battery charge. The location data collected by the asset GPS tracker can be used to analyze the movement and use of the asset. This analysis can help optimize the asset's use, find underused assets, and improve resource allocation.

• Phone GPS tracker

  These are applications or software installed on mobile phones to track the phone's location and movement. The internal antenna in the phone helps it communicate with the GPS satellites to get the location data. This location data is then used by the tracking app to show the phone's location on a map. Phone GPS trackers are used to track lost or stolen phones. If the user loses the phone or it gets stolen, they can use another device to track the location of the lost phone using the phone GPS tracker. They can also use the phone's GPS tracker to lock the phone remotely, delete its data, or send an alert to the owner.

Specifications and Maintenance of GPS Tracker with Internal Antenna

The specifications of a GPS tracker with internal antenna can influence its performance and suitability for different tracking needs. Here are some common specifications:

• Size and Weight: Internal GPS antennas are generally small and lightweight. They are often measured in millimeters and grams. For example, the size of a GPS tracker with internal antenna can range from 20 x 20 mm to 100 x 100 mm or more, with weights from 10 g to 100 g or more. A smaller and lighter tracker is more convenient for personal tracking, while larger ones are suitable for asset tracking.
• Power Consumption: Internal antenna GPS trackers have different power consumption levels. Low-power trackers consume about 5 mA to 50 mA or more in active mode and about 1 mA or less in sleep mode. Moderate-power trackers consume about 50 mA to 100 mA or more in active mode and about 10 mA or less in sleep mode. High-power trackers consume more than 100 mA in active mode and have varying sleep mode powers. The exact power consumption depends on the GPS tracker's specifications and features.
• Frequency: Internal antenna GPS trackers operate on different frequencies. Most use the L1 frequency at 1575.42 MHz, while others use the L2 frequency at 1227.60 MHz. Multi-frequency trackers use multiple frequencies for improved accuracy and reliability.
• Accuracy: The accuracy of a GPS with internal antenna is determined by its tracking accuracy and time-to-first-fix (TTFF) measurements. The tracking accuracy is expressed as a circular error probability (CEP) and ranges from 5 m to 50 m or more. The TTFF measures the time taken to acquire a GPS signal and fix the location. It can range from 10 seconds to 60 seconds or more.
• Data Connectivity: Internal antenna GPS trackers have different data connectivity options, including 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE, and LoRaWAN. Some also have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity for short-range data transfer. The data transfer rates vary depending on the connectivity option, with higher rates suitable for real-time tracking.
• Battery Life: The battery life of a GPS tracker with an internal antenna depends on its power consumption and usage. Some have battery lives of 1-3 days, while others have battery lives of up to 30 days or more. Features like sleep mode and low power consumption contribute to extended battery life.
• Environmental Resistance: Some internal antenna GPS trackers are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions. They have an IP rating that measures their dust and water resistance. For example, an IP67-rated tracker is completely dust-resistant and can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. Environmental resistance also includes temperature and humidity tolerance.
• Security Features: Internal antenna GPS trackers have different security features to protect against unauthorized access and tampering. These features may include encryption, authentication, and anti-tampering mechanisms.

The specifications of a GPS tracker with an internal antenna can influence its performance and suitability for different tracking needs. Here are some common specifications:

Following the manufacturer's instructions is important for the proper functioning of a GPS tracker with an internal antenna. Here are some general maintenance tips:

• Location: The GPS tracker with an internal antenna should be in an open area with a clear view of the sky. It should be away from tall buildings, trees, or other obstructions that can block satellite signals.
• Cleaning: The internal GPS antenna should be regularly cleaned to prevent dust and dirt buildup, which can affect its performance. A soft, dry cloth or a mild cleaning solution should clean the tracker and its surroundings.
• Software Updates: Software updates should be installed on the GPS tracker as recommended by the manufacturer. The updates can improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs.
• Battery Maintenance: The internal battery of the GPS tracker should be charged and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions. Overcharging, deep discharging, or exposing the battery to extreme temperatures should be avoided as they can shorten its life.
• Regular Functionality Checks: The functionality of the GPS tracker should be regularly checked to ensure it is working properly. This can be done by tracking its location and comparing it with the expected location.
• Protective Cases: Protective cases can be used to prevent physical damage to the GPS tracker with an internal antenna. The cases also protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture.

How to Choose GPS Tracker With Internal Antenna

Before buying a personal GPS tracker with an internal antenna, here are some important factors to consider

• Coverage

  Consider a tracker that offers coverage in all the areas where one needs tracking. Some trackers use only GPS signals, while others combine GPS with cellular networks for broader coverage.

• Size and Design

  Consider the size and design of the internal GPS tracker. Smaller-sized and discreet trackers are ideal for personal use since they are not easily noticeable. Also, consider the design of the tracker and ensure it will be easy to carry or wear.

• Battery Life

  Long battery life is essential for personal tracking to avoid frequent recharging. Look for trackers with power-efficient designs and those with extended battery life. Also, consider the battery life based on how one plans to use the tracker.

• Accuracy

  For personal use, high accuracy in location tracking is essential. Consider internal GPS trackers with advanced technology and high accuracy in tracking the location. The accuracy of the GPS tracker's location depends on the technology used.

• Security and Privacy

  Consider the security features in the internal GPS tracker. The security features may include encrypted data transmission to ensure the personal data tracked is safe. Also, consider the privacy policies of the GPS tracker service provider.

• Additional Features

  Internal GPS trackers with additional features are ideal for personal use. The additional features may include geo-fencing, SOS buttons, or movement alerts. These extra features provide added value and enhance the personal safety of the user.

• Ease of Use

  Consider an easy-to-use internal GPS tracker. The GPS tracker should have a simple app interface and an intuitive tracker design. Also, consider the internal GPS tracker with easy setup and operation for convenience when using personally.

How to DIY and Replace GPS Tracker With Internal Antenna

It is important to replace a faulty GPS tracker as soon as possible. The good news is that it's quite simple to replace an internal GPS tracker. Users won't have to worry about rewiring or soldering, as the internal antenna requires no further maintenance or configuration.

Below are the simple steps on how to DIY and replace a GPS tracker with an internal antenna:

• Step 1

  Power down the GPS tracker. This step is very important, especially when replacing a handheld GPS tracker. Disconnect the power cables to avoid shorting.

• Step 2

  Open the casing. Gently pry open the casing using a plastic knife or spudger. Be cautious not to damage the seals or the casing.

• Step 3

  Disconnect the internal GPS antenna. This is usually a cable that is connected to the main circuit board of the tracker. Take note of where it is connected, as it will need to be reconnected in the same way.

• Step 4

  Remove the old GPS tracker and replace it with a new one. Ensure that the new tracker fits properly and is compatible with the device.

• Step 5

  Reconnect the internal GPS antenna. Ensure that it is connected securely to avoid signal loss.

• Step 6

  Close the casing. Make sure that all seals are properly aligned and the casing is closed tightly.

• Step 7

  Power up the GPS tracker. Reconnect the power cables and turn on the device to ensure that it is working properly.

Q and A

Q1: What is the difference between a GPS tracker with an internal antenna and one with an external antenna?

A1: A GPS tracker with a built-in internal antenna is designed for applications where space is limited. The internal antenna is embedded within the device, making it compact and suitable for tracking assets like jewelry or tracking devices placed in the car's interior. On the other hand, a GPS tracker with an external antenna has the antenna mounted outside the device, allowing for better signal reception. This is ideal for applications that require tracking in remote locations or through dense urban environments where GPS signals may be obstructed.

Q2: Can a GPS tracker with an internal antenna be used for real-time vehicle tracking?

A2: Yes, a GPS tracker with an internal antenna can be used for real-time vehicle tracking. However, its tracking performance may be affected by environmental factors such as tall buildings, dense forests, or other obstacles that can obstruct GPS signals. For real-time tracking in challenging environments, a GPS tracker with an external antenna is recommended.

Q3: What is the range of accuracy for a GPS tracker with an internal antenna?

A3: The accuracy of a GPS tracker with an internal antenna is typically within 5 to 10 meters under open sky conditions. However, its accuracy can be affected by multipath effects, atmospheric conditions, and signal obstructions. Despite these limitations, internal antenna GPS trackers provide adequate accuracy for most tracking applications, such as asset tracking, fleet management, and wildlife tracking.

Q4: Are internal antennas as good as external antennas?

A4: No, external antennas are not as good as internal antennas. External antennas generally provide better signal quality and reception because they can be positioned away from the device's housing, reducing interference and obstructions. However, significant advancements in antenna technology have improved the performance of internal antennas. In many cases, internal antennas offer sufficient performance for various applications, particularly those involving short-range communication or where extreme precision is not critical.

Q5: Can users upgrade their internal antennas to improve GPS performance?

A5: Upgrading internal antennas to enhance GPS performance is typically challenging due to their integration into the device's circuitry. However, users can adopt strategies to improve GPS performance, such as keeping the device in an open area with minimal obstructions, ensuring the firmware is up-to-date, and using devices with advanced GPS chipsets and antenna designs.