Real-time geolocation : is it essential for a GPS tracker?
Geolocation is now a cornerstone of security for vehicles, objects, and people. Thanks to current technologies, it is now possible to track an object at any time using a GPS tracker.
But is real-time geolocation always necessary ? Is it essential for a GPS tracker, or can a less frequent update interval suffice ?
What is real-time geolocation?
Real-time geolocation refers to the ability of a GPS tracker to continuously send its position to an application or platform. This means that the user of the tracker can geolocate an object or vehicle every second and instantly view its movement on a map. This tracking technology relies on three main factors :
- Reception of satellite signals (GPS, Galileo, etc.).
- Transmission of the position via a network (GSM, 4G, 0G…).
- A geolocation application accessible on a smartphone or computer.
With a real-time GPS tracker, you can, for example, track a stolen vehicle down to the exact second or monitor the journey of a package without interruption. However, not all GPS trackers work this way. Some GPS trackers do not offer real-time geolocation. These trackers work through periodic updates, meaning they send their location at defined intervals: every 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or even once a day. On most GPS trackers, this feature can be adjusted by the user as desired.
Real-time geolocation provides continuous tracking with permanent data transmission. In return, GPS trackers equipped with this geolocation system consume a lot of battery. These trackers are very useful for tracking a moving vehicle, for instance. On the other hand, trackers with geolocation by intervals have a much greater battery life due to the non-continuous transmission of the location. This GPS tracker technology is therefore more commonly used for objects that don’t move continuously over long periods, such as a vehicle, suitcase, or scooter.
What type of geolocation should you choose for your GPS tracker ?
The choice between a GPS tracker with real-time geolocation and one with geolocation by frequency primarily depends on the use case. If you want a GPS tracker that can adapt to various situations, Beepings offers geolocation with position updates every 5 minutes for its “ZEN” range of trackers, allowing for regular tracking of the item while benefiting from long-lasting battery life.The ZEN L GPS tracker combines accuracy, discretion, and autonomy, without technical constraints.In addition to its geolocation accuracy, the ZEN L GPS tracker is jammer-proof thanks to the low-frequency network it uses, and it is also very feature-rich. Among its features is motion detection, which alerts you in case of suspicious movement or zone exit. You will receive an instant notification with the updated position of the tracker to monitor its movement in case of theft. Thanks to the position update frequency set at 5 minutes, the ZEN L GPS tracker offers up to 2 months of battery life with intensive use of about 2 hours per day, and can last up to 1 year in standby mode without recharging. This autonomy is much higher than most standard real-time GPS trackers, which need to be recharged every week or even daily.Moreover, with the ZEN L GPS tracker and the Beepings app, you can :
Easily geolocate one or more GPS trackers within a single interface. View the position of your trackers anywhere in Europe on a single map. Access your position history for up to 1 year. Receive alerts in case of attempted theft (suspicious movement, zone exit). Share the position and alerts of your GPS tracker with the people you choose.
In summary : which geolocation should you choose for your GPS tracker?
Geolocation is now an essential tool for securing your assets. However, real-time geolocation is not always necessary: it all depends on how you plan to use it and your priorities (battery life, update frequency, accuracy).If you intend to place your GPS tracker on a vehicle or suitcase, continuous geolocation may not be necessary.
If you’re looking for a GPS tracker to precisely track movements for surveillance or activity management purposes, then real-time geolocation is essential.
Autonomous GPS trackers like the ZEN L GPS tracker by Beepings remain the best solution, offering efficient geolocation while adapting to each situation with unmatched long battery life.
Whether you want to track a vehicle, scooter, motorcycle, suitcase, or professional equipment, the ZEN L GPS tracker by Beepings is your ideal, reliable, and autonomous solution.
