GPS trackers play an important role in the control of vehicles and assets. However, there are cases when they malfunction. This can be frustrating. Lost signals, incorrect locations, and dead devices are common. It is essential to know how to resolve these problems. This manual will enable you to resolve simple GPS issues in a short time. In most cases, they can be repaired by using straightforward measures.
iTracker is here to let you know how to troubleshoot common GPS tracking issues! Keep reading!
Understanding the Most Common GPS Tracking Problems
GPS trackers have proven to be very helpful; nevertheless, they may encounter problems. The most prevalent issue is the loss of signal altogether. Your gadget ceases to update its position on the map. The other problem is poor location information. The tracker indicates your car where it has never been.
The device occasionally shuts down and does not communicate at all. You do not have any new information in your tracking application.
Issues with batteries are also very frequent. The machine runs out of power too fast. This renders the tracker unreliable. The other problem is the occurrence of an automatic reboot of the device. It does not stay on and constantly starts up. Certain trackers also experience problems with the SIM card. They cannot be connected to the mobile network.
This inhibits them from transmitting location information. These are the typical issues to be aware of to easily get the right solution.
Causes Behind Inaccurate or Lost GPS Signals
Physical Blockages
The satellites in space provide GPS signals. They are comparatively feeble on reaching Earth. They can easily be blocked by solid objects. City’s tall buildings form canyons in the city, which disrupt signals. One should always park in an underground garage because it would result in a loss of total signal.
Thick leaf cover would also come in. Even the metal frame of your own car can be a pain at times when the tracker is not installed in the right position.
Weather and Atmospheric Conditions
Weather issues impact GPS accuracy. Dense storms and heavy rain clouds might reduce signal strength. Normal rain does not pose any problem, but tropical downpours, which occur in Bangladesh, may become problematic. Atmospheric interference arises due to solar activity, such as sunspots and solar flares.
These space weather events are able to disrupt the ionosphere, the ionosphere that GPS signals go. This causes short-term inaccuracy or total loss of signals.
Device Hardware Problems
Your GPS antenna is malfunctioning. It may be spoilt, broken, or of poor quality. The GPS chip cannot receive a steady supply of power to a weak or deteriorated battery. It results in bad performance and loss of signal.
Poor quality devices usually have low quality components that have difficulty in keeping a firm signal lock. Good quality equipment should be invested in at all times to ensure good tracking performance.
Location and Timing Issues
GPS gadgets require an open view of the sky. They are normally not effective in use indoors. Signal bouncing and inaccuracy are attributed to being in narrow alleys between buildings. The gadget also requires a cold start-up time. It can take some minutes before satellites are found when the gadget is switched on for the first time.
In case the internal clock in the device is not accurate, it will have problems in computing its position, resulting in inaccurate location information.
Connection Issues within the network
The majority of GPS trackers send location data through mobile networks. Poor cell coverage is an indication that your tracker is not able to position itself. And despite an ideal GPS position, it is nothing without a mobile data connection, so you will not be able to see the location on your map.
Location updates may not reach you because of SIM card problems, the mobile data plan has expired, or because the network is overloaded in high-traffic locations.
Explaining How to Troubleshoot Common GPS Tracking Issues
Check Basic Connections
Start with simple solutions. Ensure the device has power. Test all connections and wires. Make sure that the SIM card is inserted correctly. These elementary tests eradicate numerous everyday issues in haste.
Restart the Device
Switch off the machine. Wait for thirty seconds. Turn it back on. This erases short-term errors. It tends to restore normalcy.
Verify Signal Strength
Monitor the cell phone network. The gadget requires access to a cellular network to transmit data. Relocate the car to a space that is open. Make sure as well that the GPS is clear of the sky.
Update Device Software
Check for firmware updates. Aging software is subject to failure. The known issues are often corrected in the updates. Keep the instructions to update carefully provided by the manufacturer.
Review Device Settings
Test tracking interval settings. A large number of updates consume the battery. Make sure there are location services are turned on. Make sure that the device is not in a power-saving mode.
Contact Support
Contact your provider in case of problems. They can do remote checks on the device. They can find problems in the network or accounts. Complex technical problems are solved with professional assistance.
Such measures solve the majority of GPS tracking problems. Start by fixing easy tasks and then attempt the difficult ones. With routine maintenance, many of the frequent issues are avoided. Regular monitoring is safe to guard your cars and valuables.
Tips to Maintain Strong and Reliable GPS Performance
- Have regular software updates to perform well.
- Make sure that the GPS antenna can see the sky.
- Check battery health and check power connections.
- Wash the equipment to avoid dust accumulation.
- Use good hardware from well-known brands.
- Check the mobile internet and signal.
- Keep the device out from metallic devices.
- Carry out tests on a monthly basis to ensure location consistency.
- Guard against adverse weather and water protection.
- Reboot the gadgets every now and then.
Want to know how tracking can boost efficiency and safety? Check out our detailed guide on the Key Benefits of a GPS Vehicle Tracking System in Bangladesh.
Conclusion
GPS problems are typically easy to fix. Check simple power and connections. The issue is often solved by a mere reset. Most of the problems are avoided by regular checkups. In case of any problems, contact your service provider. Tracking you can be sure of, and keeping your assets safe. These tips can ensure that your vehicles and equipment maintain consistent GPS performance.
Hopefully, you understood how to troubleshoot common GPS tracking issues. Good luck!
