In September 2025, EELINK released an in‑depth engineering blog that revealed how its GPT50 pallet tracker achieves decade‑long operation through meticulous power budgets, disciplined RF design, multi‑sensor fusion and high‑volume manufacturing. The article is part of a broader trend at EELINK: the company is using insights from long‑term field deployments to redesign its entire hardware stack, from battery chemistry to communication protocols and cold‑chain sensor ecosystems. In this technical report we synthesize the latest announcements, product updates and news releases from EELINK websites and credible industry sources to understand where the company is heading. We will also compare the flagship GPT50 with other trackers like TK418 and GPT46 and highlight EELINK’s growing expertise in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and 5G cellular Io
Why decade‑long tracking matters
Modern supply chains are global and multi‑modal: pallets move from truck to cross‑dock to container to vessel and rail. Because assets often sit idle for days and then sprint through handling in minutes, a viable tracker needs to deliver years of life without recharging, provide precise chain‑of‑custody location, and raise alarms for temperature, shock or tilt. Frequent battery swaps are simply impractical when thousands of pallets are in circulation; maintenance windows are rare, and downtime translates directly into lost revenue.
EELINK recognized these constraints early. Its GPT50 pallet GPS tracker is designed to operate for 5–8 years (up to 10 years under ideal conditions) on a single 24,000 mAh lithium battery. The tracker reports its position once per day in long‑standby mode but can switch to an emergency mode that broadcasts more frequently when assets are at risk. Such longevity is achieved through primary lithium thionyl chloride (Li‑SOCl₂) chemistry and extreme power budgeting, with sleep currents of only 3–8 µA and carefully staggered GNSS and cellular bursts to avoid overlapping peaks. The engineering blog revealed that a daily 1–2 kB payload plus multi‑sensor logging can keep average power consumption below 1 mW in good radio conditions.
Engineering for a 10‑year battery life
The GPT50’s extended battery life results from four design pillars:
- Ultra‑low power system: The microcontroller and sensors gate sleep current at microamp levels. GNSS fixes use assisted data and short acquisition windows based on motion states, while LTE‑M/NB‑IoT bursts are duty‑cycled to minimize energy.
- Disciplined RF design: Antennas are tuned in situ within pallet enclosures and validated across LTE bands; matching networks and keep‑outs around magnets maintain performance near wood and metal. Dual‑mode connectivity (LTE‑M and NB‑IoT) allows the device to choose the most efficient network available.
- Robust location fusion: When GNSS signals are unavailable—such as inside steel containers or refrigerated holds—the GPT50 switches to dead‑reckoning with inertial sensors and motion models. The firmware stores confidence bounds and avoids overselling precision by attaching temperature and shock context to each location.
- Scalable manufacturing and reliability: Devices are potted or gasketed to their IP rating and undergo pressure–vacuum leak tests, RF sweeps and environmental screening (thermal cycling, random vibration, salt fog). Primary lithium cells are matched to meet safety standards, and end‑of‑line tests ensure compliance in multiple regions.
Multi‑sensor monitoring for condition awareness
Long life is only part of the story. EELINK equips its pallet trackers with a suite of sensors to monitor not just position but also temperature, motion, vibration and tamper events:
- Temperature sensor: Built into the GPT50 and other models, it monitors ambient conditions from −20 °C to +65 °C and triggers alerts if thresholds are exceeded. In cold‑chain logistics, the device can record temperature every 1–5 minutes and send daily summaries; alarms are generated when excursions persist beyond set durations.
- Motion and vibration sensor: A three‑axis accelerometer detects movement, shock and tilt. It wakes the device only when necessary and flags handling anomalies—such as dropping a pallet or unauthorized movement.
- Light sensor: A tamper detector under the casing senses when the tracker is removed or a container is opened; exposure to light triggers an instant alert.
- Optional sensors: Models like TK418 can be equipped with a relay for remote engine cut‑off, an SOS button, or an external battery, and they can interface with temperature sensors via Bluetooth. The device supports numerous alarms: temperature, vibration, speed, low battery, SOS, collision, geo‑fence and power disconnect.
These capabilities transform each pallet into a smart IoT node that reports not only where it is but how it is being handled and the conditions it experiences. Real‑time alerts allow logistics managers to intervene early—fixing refrigeration failures, investigating unexpected shocks, or preventing theft.
Leveraging full‑spectrum connectivity
LTE‑M/NB‑IoT and fallback networks
EELINK’s latest devices are built for global roaming. The GPT50 uses 4G LTE Cat‑M1 and NB‑IoT networks with 2G GSM fallback. These low‑power cellular technologies are specifically designed for IoT devices, offering strong indoor penetration and wide coverage while consuming less energy than traditional LTE. Multi‑band support ensures compatibility across regions, and fallback to 2G keeps the device connected even in areas where modern IoT networks are unavailable.
Assisted positioning and indoor tracking
When GNSS signals are weak—inside warehouses or deep in ship holds—the GPT50 can use cell tower data and nearby Wi‑Fi signals to approximate location. Assisted GPS reduces time to first fix and maintains visibility under challenging conditions. EELINK’s TK series devices also integrate Wi‑Fi positioning, and the company’s BLE sensors enable local asset tracking indoors.
BLE integration for cold chain and asset management
The EELINK Communication blog on 7 January 2025 describes how Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology enables efficient short‑range communication with minimal power consumption. BLE beacons paired with EELINK’s IoT platform allow real‑time tracking and condition monitoring of assets; enterprise users can access data through smart terminals and optimize resource allocation. In cold‑chain transportation, BLE sensors collect temperature and humidity data and transmit it via a cellular gateway (such as the TK419 tracker) to provide comprehensive oversight of food, pharmaceuticals and vaccines. If a temperature anomaly occurs, the system sends alerts immediately, enabling quick action and reducing spoilage. BLE architecture also supports flexible device integration—vehicle management systems can use BLE devices to monitor vehicle conditions and reduce management costs.
5G IoT devices and the future
EELINK acknowledges that 5G networks offer faster, more reliable signals and support advanced encryption, enabling real‑time notifications and device lifetimes of 10+ years. The company is actively developing 5G cellular IoT devices for industries such as industrial asset tracking, healthcare, transportation, agriculture and smart cities. LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) technology ensures that devices can operate for years on a single charge while providing high‑resolution data (temperature, humidity, moisture, drop, shock, movement and orientation) across remote areas—including tunnels and underground facilities.
The TK418 and GPT46: versatile trackers for vehicles and assets
While the GPT50 is optimized for long‑term pallet tracking, other EELINK devices target different use cases. The TK418 CAT‑M1/NB‑IoT tracker combines GPS and Bluetooth Low Energy to act as a gateway for BLE sensors. It supports engine ignition detection, remote fuel cut‑off, multiple alarms and optional features like a temperature sensor or SOS button. It uses LTE Cat‑M1/NB‑IoT networks and multi‑constellation GNSS (GPS/BeiDou/GLONASS/Galileo/QZSS), features IP65 waterproofing and offers real‑time tracking, geo‑fencing and a host of alarms. A built‑in battery provides backup power and triggers low‑power alarms; the device can cut off or restore the engine via server command when the vehicle is stationary or traveling under 20 km/h.
The GPT46 weatherproof tracker is designed for vehicles, containers and construction equipment. It uses NB‑IoT/CAT‑M1 networks with GNSS, Wi‑Fi and LBS positioning, includes a built‑in temperature sensor and light sensor, and has a 5500 mAh rechargeable battery with power percentage visible in the app. The tracker offers multiple modes (precise, intelligent, power saving), supports remote configuration (server/app/SMS), and can transmit data every 5 minutes while moving or once per day when stationary. It is IP65 rated, supports OTA firmware updates and features easy installation via Velcro. Such versatility makes GPT46 suitable for containers, trailers and machinery requiring rechargeable power.
Feature comparison
| Device | Battery & Life | Connectivity | Sensors & Features | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPT50 pallet tracker | 24,000 mAh primary battery; 5–8 years (up to 10 years) standby | LTE‑M/NB‑IoT with 2G fallback, multi‑GNSS and assisted GPS | Temperature (−20 °C to +65 °C), accelerometer (motion/vibration), light sensor (tamper), on‑demand emergency mode | Long‑term pallet and container tracking in cold‑chain logistics, asset pools and intermodal shipping |
| TK418 tracker | Built‑in battery with external battery option (dual 18650 4800 mAh) | LTE Cat‑M1/NB‑IoT, multi‑GNSS, Bluetooth 5.0 for BLE sensors | Engine ignition detection, relay for remote engine cut‑off, SOS button, temperature sensor, extensive alarms (geo‑fence, speed, collision, etc.) | Vehicle tracking, fleet management, BLE gateway for asset sensors, remote immobilization |
| GPT46 tracker | 5500 mAh rechargeable battery | NB‑IoT/CAT‑M1, GNSS + Wi‑Fi + LBS positioning | Temperature sensor, light sensor, accelerometer; modes for precise, intelligent, power saving; OTA updates | Containers, trailers, construction equipment requiring rechargeable, weatherproof tracking |
Customization, manufacturing and partner ecosystem
EELINK differentiates itself not only through hardware but also through customization and manufacturing capabilities. In its June 2025 article “Eelink’s IoT Hardware Edge,” the company explains that one‑size‑fits‑all solutions rarely work in IoT; instead, EELINK offers fully customizable hardware, adjusting sensor configurations, form factor and firmware to meet specific client requirements. Because EELINK is a true manufacturer (OEM/ODM), it can deliver bespoke devices—such as rugged trackers for mining equipment or compact sensors for pharmaceutical packages—rather than reselling generic hardware.
Vertically integrated manufacturing
To ensure scalability and resilience, EELINK operates dual‑site production in Yibin (Sichuan) and Vietnam, following ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 quality systems. This vertically integrated approach enables fast lead times and mitigates disruptions; if one site faces issues, production continues at the other. The company can manufacture up to one million devices annually without compromising quality, instilling confidence for large‑scale deployments.
Full‑spectrum connectivity and interface versatility
EELINK’s hardware covers 2G, 3G, LTE (Cat‑1 and Cat‑M1), NB‑IoT and emerging 5G technologies. Many devices also integrate Bluetooth Low Energy and Wi‑Fi positioning. Onboard interfaces support vehicle CAN bus, OBD‑II ports and industrial protocols like Modbus; devices can publish data via MQTT or HTTP to cloud platforms. By spanning the entire connectivity stack—from physical links to application protocols—EELINK ensures compatibility with partner systems around the world.
Quality engineering and reliability
Reliability is non‑negotiable in B2B IoT. EELINK enforces rigorous engineering standards: rugged, waterproof enclosures (IP67 or higher), shock‑resistant circuits, backup power sources and failsafe modes. End‑to‑end quality control—from automated optical inspection to multi‑point functional testing—delivers devices with “high quality and good stability”, and partners report consistent performance under variable network conditions. Many devices include supercapacitors or backup batteries to transmit a last position if external power is lost.
Partner ecosystem and co‑innovation
EELINK’s success is amplified by a global partner ecosystem. The company collaborates with Fortune 500 IoT companies, telematics providers (e.g., Navixy and Wialon) and mobile network operators to pre‑certify devices and co‑test new networks. It offers OEM/ODM programs, white‑label hardware and dealer programs to enable partners to build their own solutions on top of EELINK hardware. Real‑world examples include:
- Cold‑chain logistics: Pairing the TK419 tracker with BTT01 Bluetooth temperature sensors allows real‑time monitoring of vaccines. Alerts on temperature excursions led one client to eliminate spoilage fines and theft incidents.
- Fleet telematics: OBD‑II trackers (such as GOT10) enable fleet operators to read vehicle speed, engine RPM, coolant temperature and fuel level. Deploying 500 such devices helped a city delivery fleet improve safety and reduce maintenance costs. Hardwired trackers can interface with the CAN bus and feature relays for remote immobilization; one logistics company uses them to disable tanker trucks safely in cases of theft or persistent speeding.
- Predictive maintenance and route optimization: Streaming engine hours, idle time and diagnostics to analytics platforms allows predictive service scheduling, reducing unplanned breakdowns by 40 %, while real‑time GPS feeds route optimization software to improve fuel efficiency and delivery times.
Communication protocols: efficiency and integration
EELINK devices use a proprietary binary protocol transmitted over TCP or UDP to maximize data efficiency and reduce power consumption. TCP provides reliable, ordered data streams for real‑time tracking, while UDP suits ultra‑low‑power devices that send infrequent, small packets. SMS remains a control channel for remote configuration and fallback when cellular data is unavailable. For integration with modern IoT platforms, EELINK offers MQTT via gateways, enabling devices to publish data to cloud services (AWS IoT Core, Azure IoT Hub, etc.). Security and encryption are implemented at network and application layers—such as private APNs and VPN tunnels—while the lightweight binary payload minimizes airtime and battery usage.
Industry impact and future directions
EELINK’s engineering innovations have significant real‑world impact. By equipping pallets and containers with decade‑long trackers, asset loss and disputes are reduced. Logistics providers can recover misplaced pallets and hold partners accountable. Real‑time monitoring protects cold‑chain goods, reducing spoilage of temperature‑sensitive products, which studies show affects ~20 % of shipments. Continuous data streams enable optimization of asset utilization, revealing idle inventory and bottlenecks. Finally, tamper and shock alerts act as theft deterrents, ensuring that high‑value shipments are secure.
Looking forward, EELINK’s investment in BLE ecosystems, 5G cellular IoT and customizable hardware positions the company as a premier partner for smart supply chain visibility. Its ability to design for extreme longevity, integrate multi‑sensor data and deliver high‑quality devices at scale suggests that decade‑long tracking will become the norm rather than the exception. As global supply chains demand deeper insights and resilience, EELINK’s products will likely expand into new verticals—from smart cities and industrial automation to agriculture and healthcare—leveraging 5G, NB‑IoT and BLE to connect everything.