TKSTAR TK915 4G Vehicle GPS Tracker User Manual

1. Product Overview

The TKSTAR TK915 is a 4G vehicle GPS tracker designed for real-time location tracking and monitoring. It operates on existing GSM/GPRS and 4G LTE networks, utilizing GPS and AGPS dual positioning technology for high accuracy. Key features include a long standby time, powerful magnetic mounting, remote voice monitoring, and various alarm functions.

Figure 1: TKSTAR TK915 GPS Tracker highlighting its main features.

2. Specifications

Figure 2: Dimensions of the TKSTAR TK915 GPS Tracker.

3. Setup

3.1. Unboxing and Components

The package typically includes the TKSTAR TK915 GPS tracker, a user manual, a charging cable, a SIM ejector tool, and a protective pouch.

3.2. SIM Card Installation

1. Ensure the device is powered off.
2. Open the rubber cover on the side of the tracker to reveal the SIM card slot.
3. Insert a standard Mini SIM card (chip facing down) into the slot. Micro SIM and Nano SIM cards are not compatible.
4. Close the rubber cover securely to ensure waterproofing.

Figure 3: Compatible SIM card type (Mini SIM).

3.3. Powering On the Device

Once the SIM card is inserted, the device will automatically power on. The indicator light will illuminate. The device will acquire a GPS location when there is a GPS signal and an LBS (Location Based Service) location when there is no GPS signal. The device automatically turns off when the SIM card is removed.

3.4. Indicator Light Status

4. Operation

4.1. SMS Tracking

To track the device via SMS, you can either call the SIM card number in the tracker (you will receive a Google Maps link of its position) or send an SMS command.

• Get Position: Send message G123456# to the tracker's SIM card number. You will receive an SMS with latitude, longitude, speed, time, battery level, device ID, and a Google Maps link.

Figure 4: Example of SMS tracking command and response.

4.2. Admin Number Setting

To set an admin number (which will receive all alerts), send the command:

• Set Admin: admin123456 [your phone number] (e.g., admin123456 13265790180). The tracker will reply with admin ok.
• Cancel Admin: noadmin123456. The tracker will reply with noadmin ok.

Figure 5: Example of setting an admin number via SMS.

4.3. Alarm Functions

The TK915 tracker supports several alarm types:

• Overspeed Alarm: Works only in continuous positioning mode. If the unit's speed exceeds your preset limit, it will send "speed alarm!" to the admin number every 5 minutes.
• Set Overspeed: speed123456 [speed in km/h] (e.g., speed123456 070 for 70km/h). Reply: speed ok.
• Cancel Overspeed: nospeed123456. Reply: nospeed ok.


Figure 6: Example of setting an overspeed alarm via SMS.

• Shake Alarm: After setting, the tracker must be stationary for 5 minutes. If it detects a shock, it will send "sensor alarm!" to the admin number.
• Set Shake Alarm: shock123456. Reply: shock ok.
• Cancel Shake Alarm: noshock123456. Reply: noshock ok.
• Loosing Alarm: (Factory default is ON). The device has an anti-removal induction sensor. If the sensor is uncovered after being covered, it will send "Loosing alarms!" to the admin and SOS numbers.
• Cancel Loosing Alarm: noloosing123456. Reply: noloosing ok.

Figure 7: Overview of various alarm types and geo-fence feature.

4.4. Sleep Modes

The tracker offers different sleep modes to conserve battery:

• Sleep by Time Mode: The tracker will work for 5 minutes after being woken up, then return to sleep. GPS will shut off, and GSM will operate in low consumption mode. SMS or calls can wake up the tracker.
• Set Sleep by Time: sleep123456 time. Reply: sleep time ok.
• Sleep by Shock Sensor Mode: (Factory default setting). If no shock is detected for 5 minutes, the tracker enters "sleep by shock" mode. GPS shuts off, and GSM operates in low consumption. Vibration, SMS, or calls can wake up the tracker.
• Set Sleep by Shock: sleep123456 shock. Reply: sleep shock ok.

Figure 8: Example of setting sleep by shock sensor mode via SMS.

4.5. Terminal (Local) Time Setting

To adjust the device's time zone:

• Set Time Zone: timezone123456 [local time zone] (e.g., timezone123456 +1, timezone123456 -1, timezone123456 0). Reply: time ok.

Figure 9: Example of setting the time zone via SMS.

4.6. Reset Hardware

To reset the device hardware:

• Reset: begin123456. Reply: begin ok.

Figure 10: Example of resetting hardware via SMS.

4.7. Online Tracking (Web Platform & Mobile App)

The TK915 offers lifetime free tracking software via a web platform and mobile application.

1. Activate GPRS: Send SMS command gprs123456 to the tracker.
2. Set APN: You need to configure the APN settings for your SIM card carrier. You can find APN information by checking your SIM card carrier's website or by inserting the SIM card into a mobile phone.
• Set APN: apn123456 [APN content]
• Set APN User: apnuser123456 [APN user content]
• Set APN Password: apnpasswd123456 [APN password content]
3. Web Platform: Visit www.mytkstar.net. Select "Log in by IMEI" at the bottom of the screen. Use the IMEI number (found on the back of the device) as your login ID and 123456 as the password.
4. Mobile App: Search for "TKSTAR GPS" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or scan the QR code provided in the manual to install the application. Register an account and add your device.

Figure 11: TKSTAR tracking platform and mobile app information.

4.8. Remote Voice Monitor

To remotely monitor the voice around the device:

1. Send the command Monitor+Password to the device (e.g., Monitor123456). The device will enter monitor mode.
2. Call the SIM card number in the device. It will automatically answer, allowing you to hear the surrounding audio.

4.9. Geo-fence

You can set up a virtual safety zone (geo-fence) using the tracking platform or mobile app. If the tracker enters or exits this predefined area, it will send an alarm notification.

Figure 12: Geo-fence feature illustrated on a map.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Charging the Device

The TK915 tracker is equipped with a rechargeable Li-ion battery. Use the provided USB charging cable and a 5V-1A wall charger to charge the device. Ensure the rubber cover is properly sealed after charging to maintain its waterproof rating.

5.2. Battery Life

The TK915-2G model offers up to 120 days of standby time, while the TK915-4G model offers up to 80 days. Actual battery life may vary depending on usage, network conditions, and tracking frequency. The device will send a low battery alarm when the battery level drops below 30%.

Figure 13: Tracker in a vehicle compartment, highlighting battery capacity and standby time.

5.3. Waterproof and Dustproof

The TK915 has an IP65 rating, making it dustproof and resistant to water jets. Ensure all covers and plugs are securely closed to maintain this protection.

Figure 14: IP65 Waterproof and Dustproof rating.

6. Troubleshooting

• Device Fails to Turn On: Check if the battery is charged. If not, connect the charger.
• No SIM Signal: Ensure the SIM card is correctly inserted and that it is a standard Mini SIM. Verify that the SIM card has sufficient balance and supports the device's network band (GSM 850/900/1800/1900Mhz for 2G, and relevant LTE bands for 4G).
• No GPS Signal: The device requires an open sky view to acquire a GPS signal. Move the device to an area with clear line of sight to the sky.
• No Reply to SMS Commands: Check the SIM card balance and network coverage. Ensure the SMS command format is correct, including the password (123456 by default).
• Positioning Error: GPS accuracy is typically 5m. LBS positioning is less accurate. Ensure the device has a strong GPS signal for precise tracking.

7. User Tips

• Optimal Placement: For best GPS signal reception, place the tracker in an area with minimal obstruction to the sky. The powerful magnets allow for flexible mounting under vehicles or on metal assets.


Figure 15: Recommended magnetic mounting locations for the tracker.

• Battery Conservation: Utilize the sleep modes (Sleep by Time or Sleep by Shock Sensor) to extend battery life, especially when the vehicle is stationary for prolonged periods.
• Regular Checks: Periodically check the device's battery level via the app or SMS to ensure continuous tracking.
• APN Settings: If you experience issues with online tracking, double-check your APN settings. These are crucial for GPRS data transmission.

8. Warranty and Support

This product is covered by a standard manufacturer's warranty. For any technical support or warranty claims, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or on the official TKSTAR website. Ensure you retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.