How long does the battery hold in the GPS tracker?
The GPS tracker's operating time can vary from a few days to several weeks, and even longer in power-saving devices. However, there is no single answer that fits all models.
It's not just the battery capacity that affects the result. The frequency of position transmission, the quality of coverage, the number of alerts, the temperature, and whether the device remains in motion are all important.
Therefore, the declared maximum operating time should be considered as a value that can be achieved under certain conditions. With intensive monitoring, the battery will drain faster.
What does the locator's operating time depend on?
The most important factors affecting the battery are:
Refresh Rate
The more often the locator detects and transmits the position, the more power it consumes. Updating every few seconds allows you to monitor traffic more accurately, but significantly reduces the operating time.
With rarer updates, the device may work much longer.
Sleep Mode
Many locators restrict activity when a vehicle or object is not moving. When motion is detected, the device starts again to fix the position more often and send data.
A well-configured sleep mode is one of the most effective ways to save battery power.
GPS and cellular network coverage
When the signal is weak, the device can use more power to search for satellites or connect to the network. This applies, among other things, to underground parking lots, enclosed metal spaces, and places that are remote from cellular infrastructure.
Temperature
Low and very high temperatures can reduce battery performance. A locator installed outside the car may work less in winter than in moderate weather.
Number of notifications
Notifications about movement, vibration, speed, or leaving the zone require additional device activity and communication with the server.
Magnetic locator with large battery
The magnetic locator is a good option when you are concerned about longer running times and easier installation without connecting the device to the vehicle installation.
StealthTrack™Magnetic GPS Tracker it has a 20,000 mAh battery. The manufacturer claims up to 90 days of operation, but the actual time depends on the settings and terms of use.
This model can prove itself in the following areas::
- used car from time to time,
- corporate bus service,
- semi-trailer,
- construction vehicle,
- agricultural equipment,
- a car that has been standing for a long time,
- apps that require less frequent charging.
However, a larger battery means a larger size and weight. So it won't always be better for keys, a small bag, or a light bike.
Mini locator and opening hours
A smaller device has less space for the battery. Its operating time may be shorter, especially if it uses GPS and cellular network heavily.
The advantage of a mini locator is that it is easier to place it in a small space. It may be suitable for a user who regularly uses the car and has the ability to monitor the battery level more often.
Smart Tag Bluetooth works differently. It doesn't transmit its position over the cellular network all the time, so it consumes much less power. Mini lokalizator smart StealthTrack™ it can last up to 12 months on battery life.
However, this is not a direct replacement for an active GPS with a trip history.
How do I extend my battery life?
To make the locator work longer:
- Reduce the refresh rate. For daily protection, you don't always need to update positions every few seconds.
- Enable sleep mode. The device may remain less active when the vehicle is stationary.
- Disable unnecessary notifications. Leave only the notifications that you really need.
- Take care of a good signal. Do not cover the device with thick metal elements.
- Monitor the battery level. Set a constant battery check day.
- Charging before a long trip. Don't wait for the level to drop to a minimum.
- Protect your device from extreme temperatures. Especially when stopping for a long time.
Also read the manual before building Where can I install a GPS tracker in my car?.
When should I choose a model with a large volume?
A large battery will be especially useful when:
- the locator should work for several weeks,
- the device is installed in a hard-to-reach place,
- the car is parked for a long time,
- you drive multiple cars,
- the locator works in a semi-trailer or car,
- you don't want to have to disassemble the charger frequently.
For an everyday car in which the device can be powered continuously, you can also consider 4G GPS tracker in the StealthTrack ™ Charge Charger.
Resume
How much battery is stored in the GPS tracker depends on the battery, settings, range, and usage. Heavy tracking reduces uptime, while sleep mode and more infrequent updates can extend it.
For long-running applications, a good choice would be StealthTrack™Magnetic Locator. All available solutions can be compared in the category lokalizatory GPS.
