Overview
GPS tracking and wireless (BLE) gateway scanning operate differently in ToolWatch and produce different types of location data. Understanding these differences helps you interpret scan results correctly and choose the right tracking method for each asset.
This article explains how GPS trackers behave compared to wireless tags communicating with ToolWatch gateways.
How GPS Tracking Works
GPS trackers determine their location using GPS satellite signals and then transmit that data using cellular service.
Key characteristics:
Provides exact geographic coordinates
Designed for outdoor use or areas with clear sky visibility
Enables real-time or near-real-time movement tracking
Sends updates based on GPS and cellular signal conditions
Ideal for vehicles, equipment, and mobile assets
How Wireless Gateway Scanning Works
Wireless BLE tags do not use GPS. Instead:
Tags broadcast a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signal
ToolWatch gateways detect the tag when it is within range
Gateways use cellular service to report data to ToolWatch
Provides approximate location based on the gateway’s position
Works best indoors or on worksites with gateway coverage
Wireless scanning is ideal for tool cribs, warehouses, shops, and indoor environments.
Key Differences Between GPS and Wireless Gateway Scanning
GPS Tracking | Wireless Gateway Scanning |
Uses GPS satellites | Uses BLE signal detected by gateways |
Requires outdoor or open-sky visibility | Requires proximity to a gateway |
Provides exact coordinates | Provides approximate location (gateway location) |
Updates are dependent on GPS + cellular conditions | Updates based on gateway scanning intervals |
Uses GPS hardware | Uses small BLE tags |
Battery drain is higher | Battery usage is minimal |
Which Technology Should You Use?
Use GPS tracking for:
Mobile or high-value assets
Vehicles, trailers, heavy equipment
Assets that travel offsite or between locations
Use wireless BLE tracking for:
Tools stored indoors
Warehouses, tool cribs, and shops
Areas where gateways can be installed reliably
Both technologies complement each other within ToolWatch.