This guide covers everything you need to know about your MVT-2020 GPS tracker, including installation, LED status lights, troubleshooting common issues, and battery life.
Installation
Before you begin:
- Ensure the device is in an area with good cellular coverage and a clear view of the sky.
- Turn off the vehicle's ignition.
What you'll need:
- 8-10 mm wrench
- 3M double-sided adhesive sticker (included)
Steps:
- Locate a flat surface on the top of your vehicle's battery, facing the front of the vehicle. Clean the area and apply the adhesive sticker.
- Stick the device to the battery, ensuring the arrow faces the front of the vehicle.
- Loosen the battery bolts slightly to slide in the metal connector.
- Install the cables:
- Red cable to the positive battery pole (PWR)
- Black cable to the negative battery pole (GND)
- Tighten the battery bolts to secure the installation.
- Start the ignition. The red LED should illuminate for 30 seconds, then turn off.
Troubleshooting
- Device offline or not working as expected?
- Check for good cellular coverage and a clear view of the sky.
- Ensure wiring is properly connected, with no loose cables or corrosion.
- Verify the red LED illuminates when the ignition is on. If not, replace the fuse with the spare provided.
- Contact miTrail support if the issue persists.
- Allow 20-30 minutes for retriangulation. The device needs ignition sense during its initial charge to determine location. It won't work if connected only to a battery.
LED Status Lights:
![](https://info.mitrail.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Jan-11-2022-07-43-28-65-PM.png?width=688&height=347&name=image-png-Jan-11-2022-07-43-28-65-PM.png)
Battery Life
- The MVT-2020 has a backup internal battery, but it's not meant for long-term operation without external power.
- The device draws:
- 50mA while charging the internal battery
- 10mA in sleep mode
- 30mA when communicating
- On battery power alone:
- It can run for 4 hours at 50mA draw (charging)
- It can run for 20 hours at 10mA draw (sleep mode)
- The device is designed to operate with vehicle power. The backup battery provides power to transmit a "power disconnect" message in case of a power outage. You may only get 1-2 location updates after disconnection.
Additional Information
- MVT-2020 Operating Voltage: 8V to 32V
- Non-ignition tracking interval: Every 12 hours