Trailer security with the FMB965

The solution

A conventional hard-wired vehicle GPS tracker must be connected to an external power source in order to operate fully and continuously transmit data to the portal via the internet. Teltonika Telematics, by contrast, has developed a solution that allows the vehicle’s location to be monitored even when the power supply is disconnected.

The solution with the FMB965 combines several functions to tackle this challenge as effectively as possible. As trailers are regularly parked for a few days or weeks, the FMB965 vehicle GPS tracker can operate for up to 30 days without an external power supply and sends the exact location of the parked trailer even in sleep mode.

Firstly, the FMB965 has an internal 1,200 mAh battery that allows the tracker to operate autonomously for a long time. Secondly, the special “Power Off Sleep Mode” extends battery life further by reducing power consumption to less than 1 mA. Together, both functions bring companies considerable benefits by reducing potential financial losses.

How it works: To track a trailer, it is fitted with the FMB965 tracker. Trailers are usually kept outdoors, so water can damage not only the trailer but also the tracker. The rugged, water-resistant IP67 housing ensures that harsh conditions such as moisture, corrosion or dust do not impair operation.

Vehicle tracking usually requires an external power supply. This keeps the GPS tracker powered and working as configured and intended. When the tractor unit or lorry leaves the trailer in the car park, the external power supply is disconnected and the FMB965 switches to “Power Off Sleep Mode”, which minimises power consumption.

Depending on the configuration, the Teltonika tracker wakes up every 4 hours and sends periodic records with the trailer’s location. This way, the owner knows exactly where their trailer is during this time. If movement, ignition and/or external voltage is detected, the tracker “wakes up” and notifies the responsible person of a possible threat.

In addition, all relevant operating scenarios are active after waking up. To secure the vehicle, for example, the device can be configured to detect GSM jammers (jamming). In this case, the vehicle or fleet owner immediately receives a notification of the event. A buzzer can also be activated via the digital output to deter thieves and thus help prevent a trailer from being stolen.

The “Auto Geofence” scenario additionally protects the trailer against possible loss. It records the last known location coordinates after movement has ended. So when the trailer is parked and remains in the car park, the FMB965 defines this zone and no changes are detected. If someone moves the trailer out of this geofence zone, the owner immediately receives a notification of the change of location. As mentioned above, this scenario also works when the vehicle GPS tracker is in sleep mode and “Power Off Sleep Mode” is activated.

The Teltonika device can also be used to monitor driver behaviour, including routes, parking locations and use of equipment. If a driver leaves a trailer at the roadside or in a publicly accessible, unattended car park, the rental fee can be recalculated owing to the higher risk of theft and loss.

Finally, to prevent cargo theft, the door status can be monitored with Teltonika EYE Sensors. Fleet operators, dispatchers and drivers are informed immediately when the doors are opened. This helps to monitor the transport process and detect suspicious activity when cargo is not loaded or unloaded where it should be. Please note: if the FMB965 is in “Ultra Deep Sleep Mode” or “Power Off Sleep Mode”, the Bluetooth® LE connection is not available.