Set up GPS Tracksr using SMS

If you’ve added a GPS tracker to a monitoring platform but don’t see any data — the problem is often not the system.

In most cases, the device simply hasn’t been configured yet.

The key step that many users miss is setting up the tracker via SMS commands.

What Are SMS Commands?

SMS commands are the primary way to configure and control most GPS trackers.

In simple terms:
you send a text message to the SIM card inside the tracker, and the device executes the command.

📌 Think of it as a remote control — but via SMS.

How It Works

  1. A SIM card is inserted into the tracker
  2. You know the phone number of that SIM card
  3. You send an SMS with a command
  4. The tracker receives it
  5. In most cases, it replies with a confirmation (OK / ERROR / status)

📌 Important: SMS commands are very sensitive to format
(spaces, symbols, password — everything matters)

Types of SMS Commands

Commands vary depending on the device model, but the logic is almost always the same.

Here are the main types:

🔧 Factory Reset

Used when:

  • the tracker is second-hand
  • settings are unknown
  • the device behaves unpredictably

📌 This is usually the best place to start.

📱 Admin Number Setup

Many trackers require you to set a “master” or “admin” phone number.

If you skip this step:
❌ the device may ignore your commands

🌐 APN Configuration (Internet Setup)

To send data to a server, the tracker needs mobile internet.

That’s why you must configure the APN (Access Point Name).

📌 APN depends on your mobile carrier — check their official website.

⏱ Data Transmission Interval

Defines how often the tracker sends location data.

Recommended:

  • for setup → 10–30 seconds
  • for regular use → depends on your needs (e.g. 1–5 minutes)

📌 Short interval = faster testing, but higher battery consumption

🔋 Power Saving Modes

Many trackers include smart modes such as:

  • sleep mode
  • no-movement shutdown
  • event-based reporting (often called “alarm” modes)

Problem:
❌ the tracker appears offline
❌ no data is sent

📌 For initial setup, it’s best to disable these modes.

🌍 Server and Port Configuration

This is the most critical step.

Here you define:

  • the tracking server
  • the port

📌 Without this, the tracker will NOT appear in your monitoring system.

Recommended Setup Order

To avoid issues, follow this sequence:

  1. Factory reset
  2. Set admin number
  3. Configure APN
  4. Set data interval
  5. Disable power-saving modes
  6. Set server and port

📌 Wrong order often leads to a “non-working” tracker

How to Send SMS Commands Correctly

✔ Use a regular phone
✔ Make sure the SIM card is active
✔ Check balance and SMS capability
✔ Follow the exact command format

Common Mistakes

❌ Wrong APN
❌ No mobile internet on SIM
❌ Admin number not set
❌ Power-saving mode enabled
❌ Incorrect server or port

Key Takeaway

👉 Adding a tracker to a platform does NOT mean it’s configured

Until you send SMS commands:

  • the device doesn’t know where to send data
  • the system won’t receive any location updates

What’s Next

In the next articles, we’ll cover:

  • where to find SMS commands
  • what to do if your manual doesn’t include them
  • how to type commands correctly
  • real setup examples for popular tracker models

Follow to make sure you don’t miss practical guides 👇