IoT GPS tracking networks have become a cornerstone of modern smart technology, empowering businesses to monitor and manage assets in real time. From logistics to fleet management, GPS-enabled devices rely on a range of cellular and LPWAN communication technologies to ensure continuous, reliable location data—regardless of terrain or network conditions.
This article explores how each network type supports GPS tracking applications and what factors should guide your selection of the right connectivity option.
1. Understanding the Generations of Mobile Networks in GPS Tracking
2G: The Digital Revolution Begins
Second-generation (2G) networks were the first to use digital signal transmission, replacing the analog systems of 1G. Technologies like GSM and CDMA enabled secure and reliable communication—albeit with limited speeds ranging from 50 Kbps to 1 Mbps.
While outdated in many regions, 2G remains a fallback option in some GPS trackers, particularly in areas with legacy infrastructure.
3G: Better Data Rates, Higher Cost
3G networks introduced UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) technology, offering faster speeds (up to several Mbps) and more features. However, it came at a cost—literally. The denser infrastructure required to support 3G made deployment expensive, leading to a gradual global phase-out in favor of 4G and LPWAN alternatives.
4G LTE: The Backbone of Modern GPS Tracking
Long-Term Evolution (LTE) forms the foundation of today’s GPS tracking systems. With speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to over 1 Gbps, 4G supports advanced features like video streaming, real-time alerts, and cloud-based data storage.
Key advantages:
- Low latency (~50ms)
- High mobility support
- Wide network coverage
That said, higher data usage and battery consumption can be a concern in power-sensitive applications.
2. LPWAN: Low-Power Connectivity for IoT-Based GPS Tracking
Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs) are designed for long-range, low-bandwidth communication, making them ideal for IoT-based GPS tracking applications where power efficiency and broad coverage are essential.
Licensed LPWAN (e.g., LTE-M, NB-IoT)
These technologies operate on licensed cellular spectrum and use existing carrier infrastructure. While more reliable, they often require complex protocols and coordination with network operators.
License-Free LPWAN (e.g., Sigfox, LoRa)
These use ultra-narrowband frequencies with minimal bandwidth, enabling long-range communication but with lower data throughput and higher susceptibility to interference.
3. LPWAN Techniques in GPS Tracking
Spread Spectrum
This technique distributes a narrow signal across a broader frequency band, enhancing noise immunity and receiver sensitivity. However, it may introduce self-interference, limiting network scalability.
Telegram Splitting
By breaking messages into smaller packets and transmitting them pseudo-randomly, telegram splitting reduces packet collisions and boosts network capacity—an essential feature for high-density IoT environments.
4. Cellular IoT Variants: LTE-M vs. NB-IoT
LTE-M (Cat-M1)
- Bandwidth: 1.4 MHz
- Data Rate: ~100–300 Kbps
- Latency: 10–15 ms
- Supports mobility and voice (VoLTE)
Ideal for mobile GPS tracking, LTE-M balances power efficiency and performance, making it suitable for applications like fleet management and logistics.
NB-IoT
- Bandwidth: 200 kHz
- Data Rate: Max 250 Kbps
- Latency: 1.6–10 seconds
- No support for mobility or roaming
NB-IoT is tailored for static, power-sensitive applications, such as environmental sensors or fixed asset tracking.
Operational Modes:
- Standalone
- Guard Band (within LTE)
- In-band (shared with LTE spectrum)
5. 5G: High-Speed GPS Tracking with Constraints
5G promises ultra-high speeds up to 35 Gbps and extremely low latency (<10ms), opening new frontiers in vehicle tracking, smart cities, and autonomous mobility.
However, limitations include:
- Short range and poor signal penetration
- Dependence on line-of-sight
- Limited coverage in rural or remote areas
In its current state, 5G is best suited for urban, high-density deployments where infrastructure is mature.
6. Real-World Applications of Mobile Networks in GPS Tracking
Fleet Management
Modern fleet tracking systems combine GPS and cellular networks to provide real-time data on vehicle location, fuel consumption, driver behavior, and compliance with traffic laws.
Example: Jimi IoT’s VL808 hardwired tracker leverages 4G LTE and GNSS for precision tracking across diverse vehicle types.
Rental Car Monitoring
Rental companies rely on GPS trackers with cellular connectivity to track usage patterns, detect unauthorized movement, and receive accident alerts via cloud-based dashboards.
Example: The VL502 OBDII tracker offers plug-and-play installation and supports vehicle diagnostics, making it ideal for short-term rentals.
Cold Chain Logistics
In temperature-sensitive sectors like food or pharmaceuticals, maintaining the right environment is critical. GPS trackers equipped with temperature sensors and LTE-M or NB-IoT modules ensure data is transmitted in real time.
Example: Jimi IoT devices support wired temperature sensors and remote monitoring for cold chain compliance.
Asset Tracking
From trailers and containers to construction equipment, GPS tracking combined with LPWAN ensures assets are monitored even in off-grid or remote areas.
Example: The LL301 battery-powered tracker offers 10,000mAh long-life battery, GNSS positioning, and alert-based monitoring for static and mobile assets.
7. How to Choose the Right Network for Your GPS Tracking Solution
Selecting the right network depends on several key factors:
| Factor | Ideal Network |
|---|---|
| Mobility required | LTE-M, 4G, 5G |
| Power sensitivity | NB-IoT, LPWAN |
| Data volume | 4G, LTE-M |
| Real-time communication | LTE-M, 4G, 5G |
| Remote/rural deployment | LPWAN, NB-IoT |
| Roaming support | LTE-M, 4G |
| Application type (mobile/static) | LTE-M (mobile), NB-IoT (static) |
Conclusion: Building Smarter Tracking Solutions with the Right Connectivity
Each network—whether it’s 2G, 4G LTE, NB-IoT, or 5G—has its strengths and limitations. The key to maximizing your GPS tracking solution’s performance lies in aligning your hardware and connectivity strategy with the specific needs of your use case.
At Jimi IoT & Concox, we integrate advanced connectivity options across our tracker lineup—from 4G fleet trackers and dashcams to battery-powered LPWAN asset trackers—ensuring you stay connected, informed, and in control.
