Author: Marion Hanson

There are multiple options for fitting your fleet vehicles with a GPS fleet tracking device. From professionally installed, tamper-proof devices to self-installed options.

But with so many options, how do you know what’s best for your fleet business?

Read our asset tracking small business guide to find out why asset tracking is essential for your fleet business.

What are the different car tracking options?

There are three main types of vehicle tracking devices including:

• Professionally installed (hard-wired) car trackers.
• Self-installed (plug-and-play)car trackers.
• Mobile car tracking applications.

Each of these car-tracking devices has its benefits and challenges. But which is right for your fleet business? This depends on costs, what fleet data you wish to collect, and whether you want to track more than one vehicle.

 

Dealer installed GPS tracker for car

Professionally installed car tracking devices are hardwired into the cab of a vehicle, making them tamper-proof.

A hard-wired device also adds a layer of data security and reliability that the other devices do not provide.

Pros of professionally installed car tracking devices

Let’s dive into the pros of getting a car tracking device that needs to be professionally installed.

Security of professionally installed car tracker devices

These devices are hardwired into a fleet vehicle diagnostic system and securely fasted underneath the dashboard, making them the most secure, tamper-proof option.

The reliability of professionally installed car tracking devices

These car tracking devices have sensors that alert fleet management whenever a car tracking device is tampered with. This means that the ability to connect peripheral devices through wired connections results in a professionally installed car tracker device being the most reliable choice.

More data for fleet management

Beyond these engine diagnostics, hardwired tracking systems can collect far more data than other tracking devices. This is done through sensors and other in-vehicle devices that allow fleet managers to monitor fleet performance and driver behaviour more closely.

Professionally installed car tracker challenges

Whereas, like most technology, there are some factors to take into account…

Professionally installed car tracker costs

Professional installations are often more expensive than other options. This is due to the additional costs of hardware installation, labour, and convenience. They also require planning to limit vehicle downtime.

Hard to move installed car trackers

Another point worth making is that you should wait to install these car trackers if you plan to decommission a vehicle or switch the vehicle tracking device to another, as this requires planning and can take longer.

What fleet businesses should have professionally installed car trackers?

Fleet businesses that value fleet safety and security will likely choose hardwired, professionally installed car tracking devices.

An example is when the business uses customer data for invoicing or other critical business workflows. Another example includes implementing and managing driver safety incentive programs.

Our recent fleet crime survey discovered why safety is vital for fleet vehicles. Read more about it here.

 

Self-install vehicle tracking devices

These car tracking systems can be easily installed without a professional car tracker installation engineer.

They have become increasingly popular due to quicker installation times and more effortless movement between fleet vehicles.

Pros of self-installed car tracking devices

Here is why a self-installed vehicle tracking device may be appropriate for your business.

Car tracking self-installed device ease of use

These devices do not need professional engineers to perform any car tracker hardwire connection; instead, you can simply plug this car tracking device into your fleet car’s OBD-II diagnostic port.

Self-install car tracker portability

Moving these car tracking devices from one fleet vehicle to another is easier. This is ideal for fleets with high turnover volumes or short-term seasonal fleets.

But if you are moving this car tracker to another fleet, you will still have to notify your provider so that they can update the vehicle assignment.

The cost of self-installed car trackers

These plug-and-play car trackers do not have to be professionally installed, so the implementation costs of technology and vehicle downtime will be lower.

The challenges of self-install car tracking devices

Like professionally installed car tracking, self-install tracking has different challenges.

Security and self-installed vehicle tracking

Because these car trackers are easy to install and remove, they are also easy to steal. They are not securely hardwired to the vehicle, which makes fleet theft more likely.

Limited fleet data from the vehicle tracker

Plug-and-play devices only typically record vehicle engine data, including mileage and ignition status. Other sensors, such as seatbelt monitoring, are either unavailable or not very reliable in self-install trackers.

What fleet businesses should have self-install car trackers?

Fleet businesses with high turnover or those that use seasonal or rental vehicles typically choose self-install vehicle tracking devices because they are flexible.

Fleet Card Services provides professionally installed and self-install car trackers. Check them out today.

 

Mobile application fleet car trackers

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is becoming more popular due to its flexibility and features, which are unavailable in other vehicle tracking devices.

Choosing a mobile tracking application depends on the type of data you wish to collect.

Find out more about our apps for fleets.

Mobile car tracker pros

Here are some advantages of using a mobile car tracker.

Car tracker app mobility

Using a mobile car tracker allows you to work from anywhere. With business workflows and tracking information in a single application, fleet managers can monitor far more than fleet vehicle data.

Car tracker app cost

As you use your device, fleet businesses can save the costs of hardware and professional installation.

Car tracker app usability

As your employees are likely already familiar with how their mobile device works, learning curves and barriers to entry will be reduced.

Car tracking away from your vehicle

When the system is not tied to your vehicle but instead to your fleet drivers, it can also be used to track employee locations. This is particularly important for lone workers working in remote locations.

Mobile car tracker challenges

Here are some challenges fleet businesses need to consider if they decide upon mobile car trackers.

Mobile car tracker security and accountability

Mobile devices can be easily lost, stolen or damaged. They can also be turned off if the fleet driver no longer wants to be tracked.

Data limitation for car trackers

Although mobile devices are ideal for collecting employee data, including location and timecard information, they may struggle with vehicle diagnostics, such as fuel use and miles driven.

Mobile devices aren’t designed to be car trackers

As mobile devices weren’t designed for car tracking, they may face issues with battery life and drain while the app runs.

What fleet businesses should have mobile vehicle trackers?

Mobile trackers appeal to fleet businesses that need better communication by tracking employee locations and fleet vehicle information.

Need help choosing what GPS tracker for your car is best for your fleet business?

Fuel Card Services offers a wide range of fleet vehicle trackers, including professionally installed and self-installed. Contact our friendly team today for further questions and advice about which option would be best for your fleet business.

Telematics is a field that blends telecommunications, vehicular technologies, and GPS systems to provide comprehensive data collection and communication for various applications, particularly in telematics fleet management.

What are telematics?

A telematic device is a crucial component of this field, designed to collect, transmit, and analyse data from vehicles or assets. You may need this to ensure feedback on your driver’s behaviour  – and suggest how they can drive safer on future journeys. Below, we’ll explore the fundamental components of a telematics fleet management device, shedding light on how each element contributes to its overall functionality.

Discover more about what telematics are by reading our guide.

 

Telematics GPS Module

The GPS (Global Positioning System) module is arguably one of the most critical components of a telematics device. It allows for real-time location tracking of vehicles or assets.

Telematics GPS functions

Telematic tracking: Provides precise coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the device’s location.

Route optimisation: Helps in planning the most efficient routes based on real-time traffic data.

Geofencing: Enables virtual boundaries; alerts are triggered when a vehicle enters or exits designated areas.

Telematics communication unit module

This component transmits the collected data to a central server or cloud-based system.

Types of telematics communication unit module

• Cellular networks: Uses mobile networks (e.g., 4G, 5G) for data transmission, allowing devices to send and receive information over long distances.
• Satellite communication: Ideal for remote areas with limited cellular coverage, ensuring connectivity in challenging environments.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Useful for local data transfer and device configuration.

Telematics data processing unit

The data processing unit (DPU) serves as the brain of the telematic device. It processes raw data collected from various sensors and systems before transmitting it.

Key function of a telematics data processing unit

• Data aggregation: Compiles data from different sources, such as GPS, accelerometers, and other sensors.
• Real-time processing: Analyses data on the fly to provide immediate insights, such as driver behaviour and vehicle diagnostics.
• Data compression: Reduces the size of data for more efficient transmission without losing critical information.

Telematic sensors

Telematic devices often include various sensors to monitor different aspects of a vehicle’s operation and environment. Common sensors include:

Types of telematic sensors

• Accelerometers: Measure acceleration forces, providing insights into driving behaviour, such as sudden stops or rapid acceleration.
• Gyroscopes: Help in determining the vehicle’s orientation and can assist in rollover detection.
• Temperature sensors: Monitor engine and cabin temperatures, essential for logistics involving perishable goods.
• Fuel level sensors: Track fuel consumption and help in calculating efficiency.

Telematic power supply

A reliable power supply is crucial for the continuous operation of a telematics device.

Telematic power options

• Vehicle battery: Many telematic devices draw power directly from the vehicle’s battery, ensuring constant operation while the vehicle is in use.
• Internal batteries: Some devices include rechargeable batteries for backup power, especially useful in case of vehicle shutdown.
• Solar power: For certain applications, solar panels can be integrated to provide supplementary power.

Telematics software user interface

Although many telematic devices operate autonomously, a user interface is often included for configuration and monitoring purposes.

Components of the Telematics software user interface

• LCD/LED Display: Shows real-time data, alerts, and notifications.
• Mobile telematic app integration: Many modern telematics systems provide companion apps for smartphones, allowing users to access telematics data remotely.
• Web telematic dashboard: A comprehensive platform for data visualisation, analytics, and reporting.

Telematics storage capacity

Storage is an important consideration for telematic devices, as they often need to retain large amounts of data for analysis and reporting.

Telematics storage solutions

• Internal Memory: Many devices come with built-in storage to temporarily hold data before transmission.
• Cloud Storage: Data is often sent to the cloud for long-term storage and analysis, allowing for easier access and scalability.

Firmware and telematics software

The functionality of a telematic device is significantly determined by its firmware and software.

Roles of a telematics software

• Telematics fleet management: Software for remote management of the device, including updates and configuration settings.
• Telematic data analytics: Algorithms to analyse and interpret collected data, providing actionable insights.
• Telematic security features: Encryption and security protocols to protect data integrity and privacy.

Telematics with Fuel Card Services

As technology advances, the integration of more advanced features, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, is likely to enhance the capabilities of telematic devices, making them indispensable tools in the modern transportation and logistics landscape.

Understanding these components is essential for businesses looking to leverage telematics for improved efficiency and performance.

For more information about our telematic devices, contact our friendly team today.

Testing a black box is crucial to ensure its functionality, accuracy, and reliability.

This guide will take you through a detailed step-by-step process, covering various aspects of testing, from initial setup to performance evaluation.

Preparation for a black box test

This introduction section will explore the objectives and importance of black box testing in automotive systems, emphasising its critical role in assessing vehicle performance and safety.

Tools for black box testing

Before starting the testing process, ensure you have the following tools:

• Laptop or PC with testing software
• Mobile device (for telematic app testing)
• Multimeter (for electrical testing)
• GPS simulator (optional)
• Diagnostic tools (OBD-II scanner, if applicable)
• Access to the telematics platform or cloud interface

Review the technical telematics box specifications

Familiarise yourself with the technical specifications and functionalities of the telematics box. This includes:

• Communication protocols (e.g., GSM, LTE, GPS)
• Supported sensors and black box data inputs
• Power requirements
• Dimensions and installation details

Ensure correct black box telematics installation

Verify that the telematics box is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines:

• Securely mounted in the vehicle
• Properly connected to the power supply
• Interfaces (e.g., OBD-II port) connected if necessary

 

Initial power-up testing for black box

Initial power-up testing for black boxes in cars involves verifying that all systems function correctly upon start-up, ensuring that critical features such as dashboard indicators, safety systems, and infotainment components are operational.

This testing phase is crucial for identifying potential issues that could affect vehicle performance and safety before the car is driven.

Power supply black box check

• Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the power input terminals.
• Confirm that the telematics box powers on correctly (look for LED indicators).

Black box initial diagnostic self-test

• Many telematics boxes perform a self-diagnostic check on power-up. Observe any error codes or LED indicators that signal potential issues.

Telematics box functionality testing

Telematics box functionality testing involves assessing the performance and reliability of the telematics system within a vehicle.

This includes evaluating data transmission accuracy, GPS positioning, vehicle diagnostics, and communication with external networks.

The testing ensures that features such as remote monitoring, navigation, and emergency assistance work effectively, contributing to overall vehicle safety and efficiency.

Black box telematics & GPS Functionality

• Live car black box location testing: Take the vehicle on a short drive and monitor the live GPS data using the associated software or app. Ensure that the location updates are accurate and timely.
• Cold start test: Turn off the device for several hours, then turn it back on to test the time it takes to acquire a GPS signal (should ideally be under 2 minutes).
• Black box GPS simulator testing: If available, use a GPS simulator to test various scenarios, such as changes in location, speed, and route.

Black box communication testing

• Cellular black box signal strength: Check the signal strength and quality using the testing software. Move the vehicle to areas with varying signal strengths (e.g., urban vs. rural) to evaluate performance.
• Black box data transmission: Ensure that data is transmitted correctly to the server. This includes sending location, speed, and any sensor data. Check for latency in data transmission.

Black box sensor functionality

• Accelerometer testing: Drive the vehicle with different acceleration patterns (e.g., sudden stops, rapid starts) and verify that the telematics box captures this data accurately.
• Temperature and fuel sensors: If applicable, test additional sensors by using known values (e.g., adjusting the temperature manually) and observing if the telematics box reflects these changes.

 

Black box software testing

Black box testing in-car software evaluates functionality and performance, ensuring features like navigation and safety alerts operate correctly for optimal user experience and safety.

Platform and black box app integration

• Log into the black box platform or app to verify that data from the telematics box is displayed accurately.
• Check for responsiveness and ease of navigation within the software.
• Test alerts and notifications to ensure they are triggered appropriately (e.g., speed alerts, geofencing).

Black box data accuracy verification

• Compare data received from the telematics box with known benchmarks (e.g., GPS coordinates, speed) to verify accuracy.
• Evaluate historical data to ensure consistency and reliability over time.

Telematics box performance testing

Telematics box performance testing assesses the efficiency and reliability of a vehicle’s telematics system.

This includes evaluating data transmission speed, GPS accuracy, and system responsiveness under various conditions to ensure seamless communication and optimal functionality for features like vehicle tracking and diagnostics.

Black box stress testing

• Simulate high-load conditions by operating multiple devices simultaneously and monitoring performance metrics such as data transmission speed and system responsiveness.

Black box telematics environmental testing

• If applicable, test the telematics box under various environmental conditions (e.g., extreme temperatures, humidity, vibration) to ensure durability and reliability.

Black box battery and power consumption testing

Black box testing for car battery and power consumption evaluates the battery management system’s performance and efficiency, including power usage and battery health, to ensure reliable operation and optimal vehicle performance.

Power draw measurement

• Measure the power consumption of the telematics box using a multimeter while it is active and during standby mode.
• Compare the measurements with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Black box backup battery testing

• If the telematics box has a backup battery, test its performance by disconnecting the main power source and observing how long the backup battery maintains operation.

 

Black box security testing

Black box testing for car security assesses the effectiveness of security features, such as anti-theft systems and data protection, without examining the underlying code, ensuring that vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated.

Black box data encryption verification

• Check if the data transmitted from the telematics box is encrypted. This may require specialised tools or consultation with the software provider.

Black box vulnerability assessment

• Conduct a basic security audit, assessing the device’s resistance to unauthorised access and potential hacking attempts.

 

Black box documentation and reporting

Black box testing for car documentation assesses the clarity and accuracy of user manuals and reports, ensuring they effectively communicate system functionality.

Record black box test results

• Document all test results meticulously, noting any discrepancies or issues encountered during testing.

Generate a black box test report

• Prepare a comprehensive test report summarising the testing process, findings, and any recommendations for improvement or adjustments needed.

Final review and black box telematics calibration

Final review and black box telematics calibration ensures the telematics system operates accurately and reliably.

This process involves verifying data transmission, GPS performance, and diagnostic accuracy, ensuring the system is fully calibrated before deployment.

Black box calibration

• If necessary, calibrate the telematics box to ensure accurate readings from sensors and other data inputs.

Review telematics box user feedback

• If the telematics box has been deployed for some time, gather user feedback on performance and usability, integrating this information into future testing or development cycles.

 

Black box telematics services by Fuel Card Services

By following this detailed guide, you can ensure that your telematics device functions optimally, providing accurate data and reliable performance for your vehicle or asset tracking needs.

Regular telematic testing and maintenance will not only extend the lifespan of the device but also enhance its overall effectiveness in your operations.

For further information and the black box services we provide, contact our friendly team today.