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TZone - AVL-05 Protocol

This page describes the publicly available protocol context for using the TZone AVL-05 GPS vehicle tracker with Plaspy. It focuses on how the device communicates with the Plaspy platform in general, what connection settings are used, and practical considerations for integration without exposing proprietary or sensitive implementation details.

The AVL-05 is a versatile tracker with GPRS TCP and UDP reporting, SMS fallback, alarms, and optional sensors. Plaspy uses shared connection settings across supported devices and automatically detects the tracker protocol, but exact protocol behavior can vary by firmware version, hardware revision, and manufacturer implementation. This page helps you understand the communication role and integration points when pairing an AVL-05 with Plaspy.

Protocol Overview​

The AVL-05 communication protocol governs how the device reports position, status, alarms, and diagnostic information to a remote server. For Plaspy integration, the protocol's public aspects determine how the tracker identifies itself, how updates are transmitted, and which transport methods are used to deliver usable telemetry to the platform.

  • Enables the tracker to send GPS location, timestamp, and status updates to a remote endpoint configured by the user or installer.
  • Carries alarm and event notifications such as over speed, geo-fence, low battery, and engine on off for timely processing by Plaspy.
  • Supports multiple transports commonly used in vehicle trackers, allowing reporting over GPRS using TCP or UDP and SMS as a secondary channel.
  • Provides a device identity and message sequence that lets the receiving server associate reports with a specific vehicle or asset.
  • Allows remote commands and configuration where supported by the device and manufacturer firmware, enabling actions like engine control or setting reporting intervals.

How Plaspy Detects the Protocol​

Plaspy accepts device reports on a single shared endpoint and uses automated detection to recognize the tracker protocol. When an AVL-05 is properly configured to report to Plaspy, the platform will typically identify the device protocol without requiring manual selection by the user.

  • Plaspy server domain for device reporting is d.plaspy.com and the server IP is 54.85.159.138.
  • Plaspy listens on port 8888 for device traffic; this same port is used across all devices supported by the platform.
  • Devices may be configured to use either UDP or TCP on port 8888 depending on device capability and site configuration.
  • Because Plaspy automatically detects the tracker protocol, most users do not need to manually pick a protocol option inside Plaspy if the device is correctly pointed at the Plaspy endpoint.
  • Proper device identification and stable connectivity are the primary requirements for automatic protocol detection and successful onboarding.

Transport and Connection Context​

Connection context is important for reliable reporting and troubleshooting. The AVL-05 can send data over GPRS using TCP or UDP and can also use SMS for specific features, so understanding the transport options and endpoint settings used by Plaspy helps ensure consistent delivery.

  • Devices may be configured to report to the domain d.plaspy.com or directly to the IP address 54.85.159.138.
  • Plaspy receives tracker traffic on port 8888, and this port is the same for all devices the platform supports.
  • The AVL-05 commonly supports both UDP and TCP transports; the chosen transport affects connection behavior and should match the device configuration.
  • When configuring the tracker, set the reporting host to d.plaspy.com or 54.85.159.138 and the reporting port to 8888, and select TCP or UDP according to device capability.
  • SMS reporting and occasional roaming behavior can provide fallback or alternative reporting paths, but primary GPRS reporting to Plaspy is typically preferred for continuous telemetry.

Protocol Compatibility Notes​

  • Firmware revisions may change which messages or fields the device sends; always note the firmware level when validating behavior.
  • Hardware revisions or optional accessories such as temperature or fuel sensors can alter the set of available telemetry and alarms.
  • The choice between TCP and UDP can affect reliability and reconnection behavior in mobile networks.
  • Manufacturer configuration menus and default settings may differ by region or distributor; review device settings after installation.
  • SMS features may be useful for basic tracking or remote commands when GPRS is unavailable, but SMS payloads and formats can vary.
  • Validate any advanced feature needs, such as remote engine cutoff or two way audio, against the manufacturer documentation and your firmware build.

Why Protocol Understanding Matters​

Understanding the tracker communication protocol helps installers, integrators, and fleet managers achieve reliable connectivity, accurate reporting, and efficient troubleshooting when using the AVL-05 with Plaspy.

  • Ensures the tracker is pointed to the correct Plaspy endpoint and transport so reports arrive consistently.
  • Helps diagnose common connectivity issues by confirming whether the device is using TCP or UDP and verifying endpoint settings.
  • Clarifies which alarms and sensor data will be available in Plaspy based on device configuration and firmware support.
  • Supports planning for roaming behavior, SMS fallbacks, and data usage when deploying devices across regions.
  • Enables smoother firmware upgrades and configuration changes by highlighting where protocol or message behavior may differ between versions.

Why Use Plaspy with This Protocol​

Using the AVL-05 with Plaspy gives organizations a unified platform to monitor vehicle location, alarms, and operational metrics. Plaspy collects the device telemetry sent to its shared endpoint and presents it in dashboards and alerts that support security, recovery, and fleet management workflows. The platform's automatic protocol detection and single port approach simplify onboarding and reduce configuration errors during deployment.

To learn more about using Plaspy with the TZone AVL-05 and other devices, visit https://www.plaspy.com. Protocol support, firmware behavior, and device implementation details can change over time, so verify the latest device specific protocol and firmware information on the manufacturer site http://www.tzonedigital.com/ before finalizing integrations.

Tracker Communication

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