How GPS Tracking Works

Introduction

GPS tracking allows organizations to monitor the location and activity of vehicles, assets, and other tracked entities in real time.

However, GPS tracking is more than simply displaying a location on a map. Behind the scenes, multiple processes transform raw device data into meaningful information that can be used for monitoring, reporting, notifications, and integrations.

This article explains how data flows from a GPS Device to the information you see in Jitra.

Overview

The GPS tracking process in Jitra can be summarized as follows:

Each component plays a different role in ensuring data is received, processed, and presented accurately.

GPS Devices Collect Data

A GPS Device is the primary source of data in a GPS tracking system.

The device is installed on a vehicle, asset, or other entity that needs to be monitored.

A GPS Device can collect various types of information, including:

• Location
• Speed
• Direction
• Ignition status
• Battery voltage
• Sensor data
• Other device-related information

The collected data is then transmitted to Jitra at intervals defined by the device configuration.

Data Is Sent Through Cellular Networks

After collecting data, the GPS Device sends it to the server through a cellular network.

The transmission interval is not controlled by Jitra. Instead, it is configured directly on the GPS Device.

As a result, update frequencies may vary between devices depending on how they are configured.

More frequent updates generally provide more detailed tracking and trip history information.

Jitra Receives and Stores Data

When data arrives at Jitra, it is validated, processed, and stored.

The incoming data is used to update the current state of the associated Object.

At this stage, Jitra begins building the information that powers tracking, history, events, reports, and integrations.

Data Powers Live Tracking

One of the primary uses of GPS data is Live Tracking.

Every new data point updates information such as:

• Object location
• Object status
• Sensor values
• Vehicle information
• Telemetry data

This allows users to monitor Objects in real time through the Tracking page.

Data Is Converted into History

In addition to real-time monitoring, GPS data is used to build History.

Jitra processes raw location data and converts it into trip information that is easier to understand, including:

• Starting location
• Destination
• Distance traveled
• Trip duration
• Stop duration
• Route information

This approach allows users to understand activities without having to analyze thousands of individual GPS points.

The Event Engine Evaluates Incoming Data

Every data point received by Jitra is evaluated by the Event Engine.

The Event Engine checks whether the incoming data matches any active Event rules configured by users.

Examples include:

• Entering a geofence
• Exiting a geofence
• Overspeed
• Moving
• Sensor activation
• Other custom conditions

When a rule condition is met, an Event is automatically generated.

Events Can Trigger Notifications

When an Event occurs, Jitra can generate notifications based on the configured settings.

Notifications help users stay informed about important activities without continuously monitoring the map or tracking page.

Depending on the Event configuration, notifications can be delivered through:

• Event Notifications
• Email
• Webhook

Data Can Be Used for Integrations

GPS data is not limited to Jitra itself.

Through APIs and Webhooks, organizations can integrate GPS data with operational systems, internal dashboards, ERP platforms, TMS solutions, or third-party applications.

This allows location and activity data to become part of broader business workflows.

The Future of Data Sources in Jitra

Today, Jitra receives data directly from GPS Devices configured to send information to Jitra servers.

In the future, Jitra will provide APIs that allow external systems and other data sources to send information to the platform using standardized formats.

This approach will enable Jitra to receive data not only from GPS Devices but also from other systems and telemetry sources.

Why Understanding GPS Tracking Matters

Understanding how GPS tracking works helps you understand the relationship between:

• GPS Devices
• Objects
• Tracking
• History
• Events
• Notifications
• Integrations

It also makes it easier to troubleshoot issues and understand how information is processed and displayed within Jitra.

Next Steps

After understanding how GPS tracking works, continue to the next section:

In this section, you will learn how to create an Organization, add your first Object, and start monitoring with Jitra.