When deploying Wildlife GPS devices in dense forest habitats, users need to be mindful of the challenges posed by thick foliage and the limited visibility of satellites overhead. In such conditions, GPS signals may struggle to penetrate the dense canopy, making it crucial for users to set an appropriate GPS timeout period. The GPS Timeout feature determines how long the GPS unit remains active, searching for satellite signals before automatically shutting down. If the GPS device turns off before it has acquired a signal, users can face a wasted opportunity—the device won’t provide a location, but it will have drained valuable battery life in the process.

Depending on the product, we offer our customers up to four distinct options for setting the GPS timeout: 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, and an optional 120 seconds. Among these, the 30 and 60-second settings are the most commonly utilized. These timeframes allow for a balance between maximizing battery life and ensuring that the device has adequate time to lock onto satellite signals. While 90 seconds provides extra flexibility, the 120-second setting is rarely chosen due to its tendency to consume significantly more battery without a proportional increase in a position output.

After the initial deployment and the recovery of GPS data, users have the opportunity to analyze their results. This analysis offers invaluable insights, enabling wildlife researchers to make more informed decisions during subsequent deployments. By studying the historical data, users can finely tune their GPS timeout settings, enhancing both the efficiency of their devices and the overall success of their wildlife tracking efforts. With thoughtful consideration of the GPS timeout feature, users can significantly improve data collection even in challenging environments, ultimately aiding in the conservation of wildlife populations and their habitats.