[!IMPORTANT] Qualified Personnel Required: Hardwired 12V/24V installations must be performed by an auto-electrician or technician familiar with vehicle electrical systems. Incorrect wiring can damage vehicle electronics or void hardware warranties.
Overview
Hardwired telemetry devices provide reliable, high-frequency tracking for light vehicles, mobile plant, and stationary generators. By connecting directly to the asset's electrical system, the device accurately senses ignition state, measures true engine run hours, monitors auxiliary digital/analog inputs, and acts as a mobile Bluetooth (BLE) gateway.
Standard 3-Wire Installation (Preferred Method)
The standard installation uses the supplier-provided wiring loom connected to three primary vehicle electrical points:
Wire Harness Pin | Wire Color | Signal Connection | Description / Function |
V+ (Constant Power) | Red | Permanent 12V/24V Battery Positive | Provides continuous power to the device even when the ignition is switched off. |
GND (Ground) | Black | Vehicle Chassis / Battery Negative | Solid ground connection to vehicle chassis or ground bus bar. |
Ignition (Switched Power) | White (or Blue) | Ignition Switched 12V/24V Line | Signals to the tracker when the engine/ignition is turned ON vs. OFF. |
Step-by-Step 3-Wire Mounting Process:
Locate Mounting Position:
Mount the device securely under the dashboard, behind the glove compartment, or inside the generator control cabinet.
Ensure the top surface of the device (containing internal GPS/Cellular antennas) faces upwards toward the sky, unobstructed by metal beams.
Connect Ground (Black Wire):
Secure the black wire ring terminal to a clean chassis earth point or factory ground bolt.
Connect Constant Power (Red Wire):
Connect to an unswitched 12V/24V fuse or power junction using an inline fuse or Fuse Tap (3A fuse recommended).
Connect Switched Ignition (White/Blue Wire):
Taps into an ignition-switched circuit that registers 12V/24V only when the key is in the "ON" or "Run" position.
Secure Harness & Device:
Fasten the device firmly using zip ties or heavy-duty mounting tape to prevent vibration.
Verify LED Diagnostics:
Power on vehicle ignition. Check the device LED indicators:
Cellular LED: Solid connection to cellular network.
GPS LED: Solid GPS lock achieved.
Advanced Installation Options
For specialized vehicle integration, technicians can utilize expanded wiring loom capabilities:
1. Fuse Taps for Clean Box Installation
Instead of stripping or splicing factory wiring, use Add-a-Circuit Fuse Taps in the vehicle fuse box. Fuse taps allow clean, non-destructive connection for both Constant V+ and Switched Ignition lines.
2. Digital & Analog Inputs (12V)
The wiring harness includes multi-purpose auxiliary inputs:
Digital Inputs: Connect to auxiliary switches (e.g., PTO pump engagement, boom lift sensors, door open/close switches) to monitor asset utilization.
Analog Inputs: Monitor variable voltage levels (e.g., secondary battery voltage, analog fuel level sensors).
3. Remote Engine Immobilisation
Connect a digital output wire to an external 12V/24V relay placed inline with the vehicle starter solenoid or ignition circuit.
Enables authorized supervisors to remotely disable starter engagement via the platform in security emergencies.
4. Driver ID & RFID / BLE Readers
Connect a Molex harness extension for wired iButton / RFID key fob readers.
Alternatively, pair the device with wireless BLE Driver Badges / Tags to log driver assignment automatically without external wiring.
Technical Documentation & Supplier Guides
For complete pinout diagrams, voltage tolerances, and hardware specifications, consult the official manufacturer guides:
Summary & Next Steps
Key Takeaway: The 3-wire installation method provides dependable ignition tracking, continuous GPS telemetry, and mobile BLE gateway functionality for fleet vehicles and site plant.
Next Steps: See Wired Device - Arrow Global BLE for asset specification details.