GS-283/GS-364HW:
This article will help you troubleshoot the most common issues with your GPS device. The lights on the device can tell you what’s wrong: a flashing green light means it can’t find satellites, a flashing amber light means it can’t connect to the cellular network, and no lights mean it has no power. Sometimes the device may not detect the engine correctly, or it may show the engine running all the time. Below, you’ll find the most likely causes and simple steps to fix each issue.
No Satellites (Green Light Flashing)
If the green GPS LED light is flashing, the device is actively searching for satellites but hasn't acquired a GPS lock.
a. Is the device under metal?
Problem: Metal objects can block satellite signals. (Devices can be covered by plastic/fiberglass/ect.)
Solution: Ensure the device is not under or surrounded by metal (e.g., metal roofs, metal enclosures, etc.). Move the device to an open area with a clear view of the sky.
b. Does the device have a clear view of the sky?
Problem: The device requires a clear, unobstructed line of sight to the sky to communicate with satellites.
Solution: Position the device in an open area, free from obstructions like tall buildings, trees, or other structures.
2. No Cellular Connection (Amber Light Flashing)
If the amber cellular LED is flashing, the device is attempting to connect to the cellular network but has not yet established a connection.
a. Is the SIM activated?
Problem: The SIM card may not be activated or correctly provisioned.
Solution: Check if the SIM card has been activated with the cellular provider. Contact the provider to verify activation if necessary.
b. Are you in an area with Cellular service (Verizon/AT&T)?
Problem: The device may be in an area without cellular service.
Solution: Ensure you're in an area with coverage for the supported networks (Verizon/AT&T). Try moving to a different location to improve signal reception.
3. Device Has No Power (No Lights)
If the device has no lights, it is not receiving power and may not be properly connected to the vehicle’s power source.
a. Does the red wire have 12 or 24 Volts?
Problem: The device is not receiving the proper voltage through the red wire.
Solution: Use a multimeter to verify that the red wire is receiving 12V or 24V (depending on the system). If there's no voltage, check the power source and connections.
b. Does the black wire have a good chassis ground?
Problem: A poor ground connection can cause the device to malfunction.
Solution: Ensure the black wire is securely connected to a good chassis ground (unpainted metal surface). Check for corrosion or loose connections.
c. Check Fuses
Problem: A blown fuse could prevent the device from powering on.
Solution: Inspect all relevant fuses in the system. If a fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the same rating.
4. No Engine Running
If the device shows no engine running status:
a. Is the white wire getting 12 or 24 Volts when the engine is running?
Problem: The white wire is responsible for detecting when the engine is running. If it's not receiving voltage, the device won’t detect engine status.
Solution: Use a multimeter to check the white wire while the engine is running. Ensure it receives the correct voltage (12V or 24V depending on the system).
b. Does the red wire have 12 or 24 Volts?
Problem: The red wire should always have constant voltage.
Solution: Check the red wire for a continuous 12V or 24V signal using a multimeter. If there’s no voltage, inspect the power source and wiring.
c. Does the black wire have a good ground?
Problem: A poor ground can prevent proper functioning of the device.
Solution: Verify that the black wire is securely connected to a solid ground. Ensure no loose or corroded connections.
d. Check Fuses
Problem: A blown fuse could interrupt the device's ability to detect the engine.
Solution: Inspect fuses related to the engine and power systems. Replace any blown fuses.
5. Engine Running 24/7
If the device reports that the engine is running continuously (24/7) even when the equipment is turned off:
a. Is the white wire getting 12 or 24 volts only when the engine is running, or all the time?
Problem: The white wire should only get voltage when the engine is running. If it is receiving voltage continuously, the device will assume the engine is always on.
Solution: Check if the white wire is receiving voltage all the time. If it is, you need to connect to a source that gives you 12 or 24 volts only when the engine is running..
b. Is the black wire connected to battery ground or chassis ground?
Problem: The black wire should be connected to chassis ground, not battery ground.
Solution: If the black wire is connected to battery ground and the master switch is turned off, the ground may "float," causing the device to show the engine running 24/7. Ensure the black wire is connected to a solid chassis ground, not the battery ground.
General Tips:
Check Connections Regularly: Ensure all wires are properly connected, free of corrosion, and securely attached.
Use a Multimeter: Regularly use a multimeter to test voltages at key points (red, white, black wires) to verify proper power and voltage delivery.