Why GPS trackers may not work | Blog | GPS-Trace (2024)

FAQs

Why is the GPS tracker not working? ›

This happens mostly if there is an obstruction around the device such as tall trees or large buildings, or if the tracking device is underground. Radio interference or signal jamming can also be a problem, in case there are too many GPS trackers in one location.

Signal problems: Factors such as tall buildings or trees can hinder GPS transmission and mess up the signals. Device quality is one of the crucial factors that affect GPS data. An unreliable and cheap GPS device can often provide inaccurate information.

If you have a GPS unit that is installed in your car's dashboard console, check to make sure the antenna is connected properly. If it is possible to move the antenna, try moving it to a different location that has a clear line of sight to the sky. Make sure the area you are in isn't obstructing the GPS signal.

Bad satellite signals and signal interference are some of the most common glitches, and they happen when something gets in the line of sight between your GPS tracker and the satellite network. Without a clear and strong signal, your device can't accurately establish your location.

One of the most common reasons why GPS trackers may not work is due to power or battery issues. Without a charged battery, the tracker cannot transmit its location to the server. If the battery is dead, the device will not work, and the tracker will stop transmitting its location.

Due to physical installation in the vehicle

If the device has a damaged antenna: If you use devices with external antennas, you can check if they are properly located or try another location within the vehicle if they are in good condition. Changing the antennas often solves the problem.

GPS signals can be blocked by bridges, mountains, tunnels, concentrations of high concrete buildings, and so on. Anything that blocks the connection between the tracker and the satellite will cause interference, resulting in inaccuracy.

GPS has limitations such as lack of service level agreement, political control, system failure dependency, and limited accuracy in indoor and urban areas.

How accurate are the GPS trackers? The technology implemented in GPS tracking devices is so unique and advanced that it can provide you with the exact location of up to 10 meters. Some high-end devices can offer better precision and are accurate up to 1 meter.

You may experience GPS interference for a wide variety of reasons. For example, competing radio signals can jam your signal. Weather can also affect your signal if you use an older device– not just weather on earth but also weather in space. There are even devices people use to jam GPS signals intentionally.

What happens if GPS is not working? ›

So, if the GPS were to fail, the ramifications would not be limited to airborne flights and the ships at sea finding themselves isolated from the rest of the world. Armies would lose all control over drones monitoring natural disasters or surveilling terrorist outfits.

Satellite constellations in low Earth orbit could provide a viable position backup in instances where GPS is blocked or fails.

GPS SIGNAL ERROR SOURCES

Factors that can affect GPS signal and accuracy include the following: Ionosphere and troposphere delays: Satellite signals slow as they pass through the atmosphere. The GPS system uses a built-in model to partially correct for this type of error.

Walls, vehicle roofs, tall buildings, mountains, and other obstructions can block line of sight to GPS satellites. NOTE: A GPS signal is strongest under the clear sky. If you can't see the sky, you'll have a weak GPS signal and your position on the map might not be correct.

If your tracker doesn't make a connection to the GPS Network you may need to reposition the device. Avoiding obstructions that could be blocking the signal can greatly improve the accuracy and battery life of the tracker.

Steps to follow

Should it not switch to Online status and update its position after a short walk, we suggest trying the following solution: Reset your tracker by pressing and holding the power button for 10 seconds until the LED lights up and you hear a high-pitched tone. Wait for around one minute.

This indicates that the tracker is currently unable to show you real-time, accurate positions. The tracker may be switched off or the battery may be empty. It could also be because the tracker is struggling to maintain a connection to local cell networks, or unable to detect accurate GPS positions.