How do GPS trackers work?

Before delving into the available tracking technologies, it is important to address the myth of Hollywood-driven Microchip GPS implants that do not exist in reality. Real-time tracking GPS implants do not currently exist and are not anticipated to be developed anytime soon due to the technical challenges involved. The required components for a real-time GPS tracker cannot feasibly be designed and miniaturized into a rice-sized implant at this point in time.

Three common technologies used in regular households for locating or identifying assets and loved ones. (Excludes UHF Dog hunting trackers)

• Microchip implants (RFID Chips)
• Radio Frequency 2.4GHZ (Zigbee)
• Global Positioning System (GPS) & GSM
  
  

Microchip implants – This is the most common method of pet repatriation in the market today. Why? Simple, if your pet goes missing and ends up at a vet clinic, animal shelter or SPCA, they will simply scan to see if the pet has a microchip. If your pet has been chipped and registered they will look it up on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) to obtain your contact details, and be able to contact you with the good news of your pet is found.

However, our friends at the NZCAR, the largest micro-chipped animal repatriation database in New Zealand receive calls all the times from pet owners on tracking down their lost pets. Unfortunately, RFID does not transmit any type of GPS data, it is simply a hidden digital address label.

So why have a Microchip implanted? Because it is almost irremovable and will help locate your lost pet back to you should it be found by SPCA or your local vet. But question is, what if your pet goes missing and is never found? What if you could find your pet before it’s too late? This is where other types of tracking technology come into play.

Radio Frequency 2.4GHZ (Zigbee) – Ideal for pets who primarily stay indoors or venture short distances, Radio Frequency (RF) tracking technology operates through a tracking remote and tag system. The remote emits RF signals to locate the tag affixed to the pet's collar, indicating the user's proximity by signal strength. RF trackers typically function within a 500-meter range in direct line of sight, though obstruction like buildings or terrain can significantly reduce this distance.

Combining a Microchip implant with an RF tracker is a cost-effective solution for owners of pets that stay within close proximity, improving the chances of swift retrieval. RF trackers, weighing as little as 4.2 grams, are particularly suitable for smaller pets such as kittens where traditional GPS trackers may be cumbersome.

Global Positioning System (GPS) & GSM –
Similar to a smartphone, a GPS tracker relies on GPS and GSM signals to function. In essence, a GPS tracker can be likened to a smartphone, with both requiring separate SIM cards for operation. Additionally, real-time GPS trackers necessitate the presence of five key components to operate efficiently. Therefore, the concept of a GPS tracking implants remains nonexistent, given the need for substantial hardware integration.

• GPS Antenna: Installed for receiving GPS coordinates from satellites
• GSM Antenna: Utilized to establish a connection with local telecommunication towers
• GSM SIM Card: Used for transmitting location data through telecommunication towers
• Processing Board: Responsible for data processing and management
• Battery: Provides power supply to the aforementioned components
  As you may have noticed, a GPS tracker functions similarly to a smartphone but lacks a screen and other features. However, like a smartphone, updates may be unavailable in areas without cellphone coverage or GPS signals, such as indoors or undercover.
  

The LiveTrek & Petrek journey:

In 2010, Lintek introduced the LiveTrek brand alongside TaxiTrek NZTA Approved cameras to offer comprehensive security solutions to national taxi fleets. By 2011, Lintek began developing smaller versions suitable for pets and easier installation in private consumer vehicles. LiveTrek and Petrek trackers offer unique features for location tracking and loss prevention.

For more information, refer to our FAQ page. While Lintek cannot guarantee the safety of your assets or pets, our solutions aim to reduce the risk of loss.

Please note that users assume responsibility for any risks associated with the use of Lintek tracking devices, and Lintek will not be held accountable for any loss-related issues.