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Using GPSLogger with GeoPulse

GPSLogger is a versatile and battery-efficient location tracking app for Android. While GeoPulse does not have a dedicated "GPSLogger" source type, you can easily configure it to send data by using the OwnTracks HTTP integration.

This guide will walk you through the required configuration in both GeoPulse and the GPSLogger app.

Step 1: Configure GeoPulse​

First, you need to create a new location source in GeoPulse that will receive the data from GPSLogger.

  1. In your GeoPulse account, navigate to Settings -> Location Sources.
  2. Click Add New Source and select OwnTracks.
  3. Set the integration mode to HTTP.
  4. Enter a unique Username and a strong Password. You will need these credentials for the GPSLogger app, so be sure to save them.
  5. Click Save to create the new location source. GeoPulse is now ready to receive data at your unique OwnTracks endpoint.

Step 2: Configure GPSLogger​

Next, configure the GPSLogger app on your Android device to send data to the endpoint you just created.

  1. In the GPSLogger app, navigate to Logging details and enable Log to custom URL.

  2. Tap on URL and enter the endpoint address for your GeoPulse instance, followed by /api/owntracks. For example:

    https://geopulse.yourdomain.com/api/owntracks

    Be sure to replace geopulse.yourdomain.com with the actual domain of your GeoPulse server.

  3. Scroll down and configure the following HTTP request settings:

    • HTTP Method: Set to POST.

    • HTTP Body: Paste the following JSON structure into the body. This format maps GPSLogger's variables to the fields that GeoPulse expects from an OwnTracks device.

      {
          "_type" : "location",
          "t": "u",
          "acc": "%ACC",
          "alt": "%ALT",
          "batt": "%BATT",
          "bs": "%ISCHARGING",
          "lat": "%LAT",
          "lon": "%LON",
          "tst": "%TIMESTAMP",
          "vel": "%SPD"
      }

    • HTTP Headers: Add the following header:

      Content-Type: application/json

      Optionally, you can add a device ID header (X-Limit-D) to give your device a specific name in GeoPulse. If you omit this, it will appear as "Unknown Device".

      X-Limit-D: my-android-phone

    • Authentication: Enable Basic Authentication and enter the Username and Password that you created in GeoPulse in Step 1.

  4. Save your settings in GPSLogger.

Once saved, GPSLogger will begin sending location updates to your GeoPulse account according to the frequency you have set in the app. These points will be automatically processed to build your timeline.