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GPS103 Protocol Commands, Data Formats & Device Setup

Understanding the GPS103 Protocol Commands for Remote Control

The GPS103 protocol is the most widely used communication standard in the global GPS tracking market. Developed primarily by Shenzhen Coban Electronics, it has become the “universal language” for budget-friendly and reliable vehicle telematics.

Whether you are setting up a server or managing a fleet, choosing the right hardware from the vast GPS103 family is key. Below is a comprehensive breakdown and comparison of the most common devices using this protocol.

Comprehensive Comparison Table

Model SeriesBest Use CaseKey FeaturesPower Source
TK103-2B / GPS-103-AHeavy VehiclesDual SIM, Fuel Cut, Door SensorHardwired (12V/24V)
GPS102 / 102B / TK-102BPersonal / PetsCompact, Magnetic Cover, SOSInternal Battery
GPS104 / TK104Assets / ContainersMassive 6000mAh Battery, IP66Magnetic / Portable
GPS105B / 106 / 107Fleet ManagementRFID Support, Fuel MonitoringHardwired (Pro)
GPS303 (F/G/B) / TK303Motorcycles / CarsWaterproof (G), Small SizeHardwired (Internal Ant.)
306A / A306 / GPS306Cars / VansOBD-II Plug & PlayOBD Port
GPS305BicyclesHidden in HandlebarUSB Rechargeable

Categorizing the GPS103 Ecosystem

1. High-End Professional Fleet Trackers

Models: TK103-2B, GPS105B, GPS106, GPS107
These are the heavy hitters. The TK103-2B is famous for its dual-SIM slot. The GPS105/106/107 series include advanced inputs for fuel level sensors, cameras, and RFID card readers.

Coban GPS105A/B

2. The Compact “Invisible” Series

Models: GPS303 (F, G, B), TK303B, TK303G
Small size with internal GPS/GSM antennas. The GPS303-G is waterproof (IP66), making it the top choice for motorcycles and boats.

Coban GPS303F/G

3. Portable & Asset Tracking

Models: GPS102, GPS102B, TK-102B, GPS104
The GPS104/TK104 offers a massive battery life, staying active for months. TK-102B is small enough for pockets or pet collars.

Coban GPS102B

4. Plug-and-Play (OBD-II)

Models: 306A, A306, GPS306
If you want to avoid complex wiring, these devices plug directly into the vehicle’s diagnostic port. They draw power automatically and can sometimes read RPM or fuel consumption data depending on the vehicle’s ECU.

Coban GPS306

5. Specialized Trackers
Models: GPS301/302/304, GPS305

* GPS305: A unique tracker hidden inside a bicycle’s handlebar.

Coban GPS305
* GPS301/304: Often come with a remote key fob to arm/disarm the vehicle’s alarm system.

Coban GPS304

How to Configure GPRS Tracking Settings

To get these devices online, you need to point them to your server IP via SMS commands. In 90% of tracking platforms, the default port is 5001.

  • Initialize: send begin123456
  • Set APN: apn123456 [apn_name]
  • Set Server: adminip123456 [Server_IP] 5001

Summary: Which one to choose?

Overview:
This GPS Tracker Coban TK303G is a car gps tracker which is working based on the 2G GSM/GPRS network and GPS satellite positioning system. It set multiple functions of security, positioning, monitoring surveillance, emergency alarms and tracking in its entirety. It can track and monitor remote target by SMS, Mobile APP and Web tracking platform.

Besides, this crawler TK303G is a full featured vehicle tracking device which is designed for a wide variety of vehicle tracking applications. It has multiple I/O interfaces that can be used for monitoring or controlling external devices. It is supported by a wide variety of accessories, such as fuel sensor, shock sensor, siren, remote controller etc. Its built-in GPS receiver has superior sensitivity and fast time to first fix. Its quad band GPRS/GSM subsystem supports 850/900/1800/1900 MHz allowing the TK303G’s location to be monitored in real time or periodically tracked by a backend server and mobile devices. System integration is straightforward as complete documentation is provided for GPRS communication protocol. The GPRS communication protocol supports a wide variety of reports including emergency, geo-fence boundary crossings, low battery and scheduled GPS position.

What’s more, the tracking software for this device is free for using LIFETIME, you needn’t pay any monthly or yearly fee for the tracking service!

  • Main Functions:

    *Waterproof Professional GPS Tracker
    Location based service(LBS) + GPS double real time tracking monitor solution. Supports SMS/GSM/GPRS/Internet Network data transmission. Able to switch ARM / DISARM state by SMS.

    *Multiple Alarm Function
    Door Open Alarm, ACC Alarm, Low battery Alarm, External Power Off Alarm, GPS Blind Spot Alert, SOS, Multi-area Management, Movement Alarm, Overspeed Alarm, Fuel Alarm, etc.

    *4 Ways to Track your Car
    Supports using Web server, PC tracking software, Mobile phone app or sending SMS to track your car. Send a message to the tracker, you will receive a text message with a google map link shows the instant location of your vehicle.
     

    *Extra-long External Microphone
    1.5m Monitoring Microphone allows you to listen in to the situation inside your car while you call the device after changed it into Monitoring Mode.

    *Save Power and Data Cost
    Multiple sleep modes for setting to save the power. Save GPRS trafiic mode for reducing GPRS data cost.

    *Rechargeable Device with Large Memory
    Built-in Rechargeable 3.7V 500mAh Li-ion Battery. Built-in memory for 16,000 positions, also supports external Micro SD/TF Card. (The external card is NOT included)

    GPS103 protocol commands

TK103 protocol integration

GPS105B (Coban TK105B)
This is a professional-grade vehicle tracker often found on eBay. It is known for its advanced security features.
 
    • Key Features: Dual SIM card support for network redundancy, remote engine cutoff (oil/power), SOS button, and support for an external camera and fuel sensor.
    • What’s in the box: The main unit, GPS/GSM antennas, a 12-pin harness, a relay, and a remote control.
    • Usage: Mainly used for fleet management and high-security anti-theft applications.
TK103-2B
The TK103 series is one of the most popular GPS trackers globally. The “2B” version typically indicates a specific hardware revision or dual-SIM capability.
 
    • Key Features: Real-time tracking via SMS or GPRS, geo-fence alerts, movement alarms, and a built-in backup battery.
    • Design: It features a durable metal casing with external antenna ports for better signal reception inside vehicles.
    • eBay Tips: When searching, ensure the listing includes the remote control (key fob) and the relay, as these are sometimes sold separately as replacement parts.
Common Technical Specs (Both Models):
 
    • Network: GSM/GPRS (850/900/1800/1900Mhz).
    • Voltage: Works on 12V to 24V (suitable for both cars and trucks).
    • Accuracy: Approximately 5 meters.
Would you like the SMS command list to configure these devices, or do you need the wiring diagram for installation?
GPS103 protocol data formatGPRS tracking settings
 
  • For Long-term Assets: Go for GPS104.

This GPS tracker is a durable and long lasting GPS tracking device that sends precise, real-time coordinates to your cell phone. It uses highly reliable satellite reception to send its location at regular intervals, when it exceeds certain boundaries or speeds, or whenever you prompt it to. Whether trying to improve productivity, track company vehicles, tag important inventory, or put a closer eye on problem drivers, this GPS tracking device will not only be your companies most valueable assets it will be protecting them.

GSM/GPRS/GPS Tracker GPS104 for Car Auto Standby 60Days - Picture 1 of 10

  • For Personal Safety: Go for TK-102B.

Features:

1.Easy to use: All you need is a working SIM card to insert into the unit, charge the battery, and you are ready to go. With GSM connectivity, it works anywhere in the world.

2.Working based on existing GSM/GPRS network and GPS satellites.

3.This Product is a good Tracking, GPS Trackers, can be used for vehicle rental or fleet management, or can protect the child / the old / the disabled / pet,etc. It also useful for businessmen, manage personnel, or tracking criminals secretly.

4.Real-time polling / auto track / voice surveillance / Geo-fence / SOS / single tracking / Overspeed alarm.

5.Support vibration alarm / low battery alarm / sleeping mode / SOS alarm / Overspeed alarm.

communication protocols

NOTE: device front side towards the sky.
1. This device is just compatible with 2G SIM card.
2. This device only worked in outdoor place. (if use in indoor place, please put it near the window)
When install in car, if the windscreen glued by metal thermal insulation layer or heating layer, it will reduce the GPS receive signal and lead to GPS work disorder.

GPS tracking solutions
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