Can a Vehicle GPS Tracker Be Installed on a Ship?

You may already be familiar with the use of GPS trackers for various types of land vehicles such as motorcycles, passenger cars, trucks, and even heavy equipment. However, have you ever wondered whether these GPS trackers used for land vehicles can also be used on ships?

Basically, as long as the area is within mobile network coverage, the use of a GPS tracker is still possible. This is because a GPS tracker uses a mobile network to communicate wirelessly with the server.

The challenge of using a GPS tracker on ships is mobile network coverage in the areas being travelled. Although mobile network coverage has now extended to offshore areas, signal stability remains unpredictable. So, what is the solution to ensure that vehicle GPS tracking devices can be installed on ships?

1. Connection to the Ship’s Electrical System

In land vehicles, a GPS tracker is connected to the battery. Ships and other motorised watercraft also use batteries. The function is the same, namely to store and supply energy for the vehicle’s electrical system. A GPS tracker can still be connected to the battery in certain types of motorised watercraft, such as jet skis and motorboats, using a “wired connection” method. With extended wiring, the GPS tracking device can be connected to the battery and placed in another area where it can receive a better signal.

However, many ships have their batteries located deep inside (in the engine room), making it impossible to connect a GPS tracker directly. This is also due to various structures or materials that block the device from receiving signals. Another factor is that some vessels only use high-voltage generators, while GPS trackers typically only support 12V and 24V input. In such cases, you will need a GPS tracker that can be connected to a USB port or a power outlet linked to the ship’s electrical system.

2. Addition of a Satellite Signal Booster Antenna

A GPS tracker is effective when it receives signals from multiple satellites. Satellite signal interference can cause inaccuracy or failure in identifying the location of the GPS tracking device. To address the issue of insufficient satellite signal reception while a vessel is operating at sea, the GPS tracking device requires an external antenna. This satellite signal booster antenna is connected to the GPS tracking device, enabling it to receive signals from a greater distance. The GPS antenna converts radio signals from multiple satellite frequencies into electronic signals, allowing the GPS tracker to calculate position more accurately.

3. GPS Tracker Protection from Water

One important consideration is protecting the GPS tracking device from water, especially saltwater, which can cause short circuits and corrosion. Even if the GPS tracker is installed indoors, it may still be exposed to water from passengers who are wet after swimming in the sea. Therefore, the GPS tracking device needs to use a waterproof protective cover that protects both the surface of the device and cable connections. This protection can come in the form of a rubber pouch or tape.

Do you own a ship, jet ski, or any other motorised water transport and want to monitor these assets? Cartrack can meet your needs with device modifications tailored to the vessel’s structure and trip areas. Consult our sales and technical experts now by clicking here.