Hybrid and Satellite GPS Trackers for Remote Assets and Fleets
Table of Contents
What Are Hybrid and Satellite GPS Trackers?
In industries such as mining, agriculture, marine operations and logistics, assets frequently operate in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. To maintain visibility and control over these assets, businesses rely on GPS trackers that utilise satellite communication.
- Hybrid GPS Trackers: These devices use cellular networks as their primary communication method, switching to satellite communication when cellular coverage is unavailable.
- Satellite-Only GPS Trackers: These devices rely solely on satellite networks, providing consistent tracking capabilities regardless of cellular coverage.
Why Use Hybrid or Satellite GPS Trackers?
- Uninterrupted Tracking: Maintain real-time visibility of assets, even in remote locations.
- Enhanced Security: Quickly respond to unauthorised movements or theft.
- Operational Efficiency: Monitor asset usage and optimise maintenance schedules.
- Compliance Support: Meet regulatory requirements for tracking in certain industries.
G150 Hybrid GPS Tracker — Best of Both Worlds
The G150 Hybrid GPS Tracker combines cellular and satellite communication, ensuring continuous tracking of assets.
Key Features:
- Connectivity: 4G with 2G fallback; optional Iridium satellite module.
- Durability: IP68-rated housing suitable for harsh environments
- Power: Hardwired to permanent power with a 3500mAh LiPo internal backup battery.
- Monitoring: Real-time tracking, driver behaviour monitoring, and remote immobilisation.
- Integration: Bluetooth Gateway for Asset Management and Tracking.
Ideal for industries with remote assets, such as mining, agriculture, marine operations and fleet management.
Note: The G150 Hybrid GPS Tracker requires a connected Iridium satellite modem to operate in satellite mode. Without the Iridium Edge module, the G150 functions as a 4G/2G cellular tracker.
Satellite GPS Trackers for Remote Assets
For assets operating exclusively in areas without cellular coverage, satellite-only GPS trackers like the Iridium Edge Solar provide reliable tracking solutions. The Iridium Edge Solar utilises Short Burst Data (SBD) to send location data from any location with a clear view of the sky.
1. Iridium Edge Solar
- Power: Solar-powered with up to 10 years of battery life.
- Connectivity: Global coverage via Iridium's satellite network.
- Features: Two-way communication, Bluetooth® integration, and over-the-air configuration.
- Durability: Military-grade with MIL-STD-810G and IP68 ratings.
Ideal for long-term tracking of assets in remote areas.
2. SmartOne C
- Power: Operates on external power or 4 AAA batteries.
- Connectivity: Globalstar satellite network.
- Features: Motion sensors, customisable reporting intervals, and low battery alerts.
Suitable for tracking containers, trailers, and other mobile assets.
3. SmartOne Solar
- Power: Solar-powered with up to 10 years of maintenance-free operation.
- Connectivity: Globalstar satellite network.
- Features: Multiple reporting modes, geofencing, and integration with wireless sensors.
Designed for monitoring fixed and mobile assets in remote locations.
Real-World Examples
A mining contractor in Queensland utilises the G150 Hybrid GPS Tracker with an external antenna to monitor pump and engine hours in unmanned, Autonomous mining areas. The external antenna ensures reliable connectivity, allowing for efficient maintenance scheduling without the need for regular on-site visits.
Another example involves a logistics company using the SmartOne Solar to track shipping containers across international routes. The solar-powered device provides consistent location updates, ensuring the security and timely delivery of goods.
Choosing the Right Tracker
When selecting a GPS tracker, consider the following factors:
- Coverage Requirements: Determine if your assets operate in areas with cellular coverage or require satellite communication.
- Power Availability: Choose between battery-powered, solar-powered, or externally powered devices based on asset accessibility.
- Reporting Needs: Assess the frequency and type of data required for effective monitoring.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the device can withstand the operating environment, including temperature extremes and exposure to elements.
Whether you're managing a remote fleet, shipping containers, or on-site pumps, choosing the right hybrid or satellite GPS tracker ensures visibility and control in challenging environments. By selecting the appropriate device based on your specific needs, you can enhance operational efficiency, ensure asset security, and maintain compliance with industry regulations. Read more about Hybrid and Satellite Vehicle Tracking.
Want to see how these trackers perform in the field? Read our post on real-world tracking with G150 Hybrid and Iridium Edge Solar.
FAQs
- What is the difference between satellite GPS trackers and cellular GPS trackers? ◄
- Satellite trackers communicate via networks such as Iridium or Globalstar, giving coverage almost anywhere on Earth. Cellular trackers rely on mobile towers, making them ideal for areas with 4G/5G service.
- Do I need a subscription for these devices to work? ◄
- Yes. Each device requires an active service plan, satellite, cellular, or hybrid, so it can transmit its location data to your portal or app.
- Can these trackers be used internationally? ◄
- Absolutely. All four devices offer global or near-global coverage via their satellite networks. Check regional restrictions before deployment.
- How do I view my tracking data? ◄
- You log in to the web portal or mobile app provided by KeepTrack GPS. Real-time locations, historical routes, alerts and reports are all available there.
- How long does the Iridium Edge Solar last in the field? ◄
- The built-in solar panel and battery are designed for up to 10 years of autonomous operation, with zero scheduled maintenance.
- Can I change its reporting interval remotely? ◄
- Yes. The Edge Solar supports over-the-air configuration, allowing us to adjust reporting frequency or thresholds without needing to retrieve the unit.
- What makes the G150 a hybrid tracker? ◄
- It uses 4G LTE Cat-1 bis (with 2G fallback) as the primary link, then automatically switches to the Iridium satellite network when cellular coverage is lost.
- Is the G150 suitable for vehicle telematics? ◄
- Yes. It offers ignition input, RS-232, multiple I/Os and a 3500 mAh backup battery perfect for fleet tracking and equipment monitoring.
- How long do SmartOne C batteries last? ◄
- With four user-replaceable AA lithium batteries, the typical operational life exceeds four years at once-daily reporting.
- Is SmartOne C easy to install? ◄
- Yes. It’s a compact, cable-free unit that can run on internal or external power sources. Mount it with screws, zip ties, pot magnets or adhesive in minutes.
- Does SmartOne Solar need direct sunlight to work? ◄
- Regular daylight keeps the internal battery charged. It can still report for weeks during extended periods of cloudiness.
- Is SmartOne Solar weatherproof? ◄
- Yes. The enclosure is IP69K-rated dust-tight, water-tight and able to withstand high-pressure wash-downs and extreme temperatures.
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