Finding a good GPS tracking sensor has been on my list for a while. While i’ve tested out a number of them, there’s usually some fault or quirk that makes me question if the balance of features are strong enough to justify the monthly GSM subscription required to use the device. That’s why I was immediately interested in Trakkit. There’s no cellular fee or subscription required – ever!
Trakkit uses WiFi to transmit location data. It has to be in range of a configured “home” network or an open WiFi network in order to transmit data, but that’s almost like saying it has to be in range of air in order to breathe. WiFi is the most common signal on the planet and open WiFi networks are everywhere. So, obviously, I went to their page on Amazon and clicked the “Take my Money!” button.
The sensor arrived in a plain white box. it was smaller than I expected, as the GSM trackers I have used before were kind of chunky. The contents of the box were the sensor, a standard USB cable, and a yellow instruction sheet that directed me to both the mobile app and online setup instructions.
The setup manual covered the configuration process, which was pretty simple. Since the manual showed battery installation and removal on page 1, I took the opportunity to peek inside – Trakkit comes with Energizer Ultimate Lithium AAA batteries. I’ve used that battery in a sensor of my own and am a BIG fan of their product, especially for IoT devices.
After closing the enclosure, I followed the setup steps:
- Download the app and open it
- Create a new account
- Select Add Device
- Enter the MAC address (from the rear label)
- Please note that the MAC address is case sensitive and expects all caps.
- Plug the included USB cable into the sensor and note that the yellow LED starts flashing with solid blue LED
- Connect your mobile to the Trakkit WiFi network and then navigate to http://10.123.45.1 to access the setup page.
- Put in your WiFI SSID and password, select “Add Profile,” then click “Reboot.”
Trakkit downloads its GPS tables using your WiFi in order to get ahead start for the first time you leave home. there are several tracking modes – WiFi Tracking, GPS Tracking, GPS Logging, and Locate. I’m leaving my sensor on WiFi Tracking for a day or two to test what we get, BUT…. I have already checked the app’s location and without ever putting in any personal information, aside from a name and email address, Trakkit pinpointed my exact location, even though it has been indoors in a CBS constructed house since it was configured. I had to move the map off target before taking a screen shot!
Also, when I went to the “Charts” section in the app, I noticed a Temperature tab – its been accurately recording the temperature in my workshop as I’ve set it up and documented everything.
This will be a fun project!
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