Self-hosted item tracking as a practical Mac mini server use case

A valuable-item tracking setup is needed for an August convention without relying on Apple AirTag or Google Find My Device services. The phone in use is a degoogled Fairphone, so and Apple services are not available. The desired tracker needs to be very small, battery powered, and able to fit inside an item.

It also needs bring-your-own-SIM support and should work with such as Traccar. The hard part is choosing hardware: many GPS trackers are made for cars, and smaller trackers often do not clearly say wh they use, making it difficult to know whether they can connect to a .

Key points

  • Apple AirTag and Google Find My Device are not usable in this setup.
  • The tracker needs to be small enough to hide inside an item.
  • Battery power and bring-your-own-SIM support are required.
  • with Traccar or similar is important.
  • Many suitable-looking trackers do not clearly publish their protocol.
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