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      MVT-2020: Installation, Battery Life and Troubleshooting

      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.

       

      Screen Shot 2021-09-27 at 12.33.19 PM

      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:

      1. 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.
      2. Stick the device to the battery, ensuring the arrow faces the front of the vehicle.
      3. Loosen the battery bolts slightly to slide in the metal connector.
      4. Install the cables:
        • Red cable to the positive battery pole (PWR)
        • Black cable to the negative battery pole (GND)
      5. Tighten the battery bolts to secure the installation.
      6. 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.
      Recently installed device shows Calgary location?
      • 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: 


      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