Valid and invalid positions in GpsGate

In this article, we want to address the most common questions about invalid positions and how they are handled in GpsGate.

What are invalid positions?

A position is invalid when the tracker sends non-updated or unreliable position information. In other words, if a tracker sends data when it is not possible to determine its location, it will generate a message with an invalid position. An invalid position in GpsGate will usually be represented like in the image below:

Asset list with status and last seen date.

The most common factors that make a position invalid, among others, are these:

The GPS tracker isn’t located under a clear sky.
The number of satellites at the current location is not enough to triangulate a position.
The type and location of the GPS antenna (internal or external).

How are invalid positions displayed?

If a tracker presents invalid positions, you will be able to see them in different ways on the interface:

Asset Panel

In the asset panel, any asset sending invalid positions will look like in the pending status.

Asset list with status icons and timestamps.

Observing Track Points

You can distinguish invalid positions because they are displayed in red whereas the valid ones are displayed in black, or you can even add the column Valid to the list.

Asset tracking table with validity status.

Analyzing the Terminal Window data

Another approach to verify whether a position is invalid or not is by inspecting in the Terminal.

Notes

Invalid positions are not being taken into account when the tracks are drawn on the map. Only valid positions are represented as tracks when using the Draw Tracks option in the Tracking Points panel.
Read more about diagnosing terminal data here.

Invalid positions and Event Rules

Invalid positions are not being ignored by Event Rules. Event Rules will evaluate the message if the tracker-sending method is set in order. Read more here.

Invalid positions and Reporting

Invalid positions are considered in reports in general, however, information in reports that requires a valid position to be correct will be ignored.
(e.g: if distance is calculated using GPS positions, the invalid position will not be part of that calculation).

Note: Addresses will not be looked up by the geocoder if the position for the address is invalid.