Comma 3 or 3X Traccar Python Client: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Comma 3 or 3X Traccar Python Client: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Introduction

The Comma 3x Traccar Python Client is a lightweight GPS tracking solution that integrates seamlessly with Comma 3x, designed for efficient and reliable data management. It is perfect for those who need a simple, yet powerful tool to track vehicle movements with the Comma 3x setup. This tutorial will walk you through setting up the client, installing Traccar, and getting everything running smoothly on your Comma 3x device.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure you have the following prerequisites:

  • SSH Access to Comma 3x: You need SSH access to the Comma 3x device to configure and set up the client.
  • Traccar Installation: Traccar, an open-source GPS tracking server, must be installed and running on your server.
  • Cloudflare Tunnel Setup: This is needed to avoid port forwarding and securely expose your Traccar instance to the internet.
  • A Domain: You need to have a domain set up in Cloudflare to create DNS records for routing traffic to your Traccar instance.

Additionally, you should have a basic familiarity with terminal commands and ensure git and python3 are installed on your system.

Step 1: Setting Up Traccar on the Server

1.1 Download and Install Traccar

Visit the Traccar Downloads page and download the appropriate version for your server. Run the installation file and follow the setup instructions to install Traccar as a service that runs in the background.

1.2 Access and Configure Traccar

Once installed, access the Traccar web interface by navigating to http://localhost:8082 in your browser (replace localhost with your server's IP address if running remotely). Create an account and log in. These details will be used later for configuration.

Step 2: Cloudflare Setup and Tunnel Creation

2.1 Create a Cloudflare Account

Sign up for a Cloudflare account and add your domain.

2.2 Install Cloudflare Tunnel

Download and install the cloudflared client on your server. Follow Cloudflare’s installation guide for your operating system.

2.3 Configure the Tunnel and DNS Records

  1. Set up a tunnel to route traffic to your Traccar instance:
    • tracker.domain.com -> Port 5055: This is for sending GPS tracking data.
    • traccar.domain.com -> Port 8082: This is for accessing the Traccar web interface.
  2. Create DNS Records in Cloudflare:
    • A subdomain pointing tracker.domain.com to port 5055.
    • Another subdomain pointing traccar.domain.com to port 8082.

Follow the Cloudflare Tunnel documentation for detailed setup steps.

Step 3: Clone the Traccar Client to Comma 3x

3.1 SSH into Your Comma 3/X Device

Use SSH to access your Comma 3/x device and clone the Traccar client repository from GitHub:

git clone https://github.com/webnizam/traccar-python-client
cd traccar-python-client

Step 4: Edit the Configuration File

4.1 Customize the .env File

Edit the .env file with the details obtained from your Cloudflare setup. Leave the port number empty, as the Cloudflare tunnel will handle routing.

SERVER_URL=tracker.domain.com
DEVICE_ID=123456
UPDATE_FREQUENCY=5
  • Replace tracker.domain.com with your Cloudflare subdomain for the GPS tracker.
  • Specify your DEVICE_ID and UPDATE_FREQUENCY as needed.

Step 5: Install Python Requirements

5.1 Install Dependencies

Run the following command to install all necessary Python libraries:

pip install -r requirements.txt

This will ensure all required packages for the GPS tracker are installed.

Step 6: Run the Setup Script

6.1 Start the GPS Tracking Service

Finally, run the setup script to configure and enable the application as a system service on your Comma 3x device:

sudo ./setup_service.sh

This script will ensure the GPS tracking client is set up to start automatically when your device powers on.

Summary

The Comma 3x Traccar Python Client is designed to be a straightforward and efficient GPS tracker for those using Comma 3x. It runs seamlessly in the background, providing consistent data without the need for manual upkeep. By following this guide, you will have a fully functional GPS tracking setup using Traccar, Cloudflare Tunnel, and your Comma 3x device.

For more details or to get involved, head over to the GitHub repository.