Commonly used for tracking assets as well as navigating, GPS technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. Every day, hundreds and thousands of field service businesses use GPS technology for fleet tracking and asset monitoring. However, there are different types of GPS tracking. And, for whatever reasons you are investing in a GPS tracking device, it is essential to understand what is GPS tracking and how GPS tracking works? So, let’s first look at what GPS technology is, as it is the cogwheel of location-based tracking, and what is a GPS tracker?
Global Positioning System or GPS as we commonly call it refers to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) network of 24 solar-powered satellites. These satellites always orbit the earth along six different paths at an altitude of almost 20,000 km. This network of satellites emits microwave signals that are sent to GPS tracking devices or GPS trackers installed in mobile phones or vehicles through cellular networks to determine the location of the asset.
Furthermore, GPS tracking systems use the mathematical principle called trilateration to pinpoint an asset’s physical location on earth based on its distance from the satellites. However, to determine the location accurately, your GPS receiver must establish unobstructed signals from at least four satellites. To conserve energy, even the most advanced real-time trackers do not send a constant stream of GPS data. The data is reported at regular intervals, typically every 10 seconds.
The insightful data provided by GPS signals can help you overcome your unique business challenges by showing your fleet’s current and past physical locations. In addition, you can access data on speeding, harsh braking, idling, actual hours driven vs. hours claimed, and other vital inputs related to the maintenance of your vehicles.
The possibilities are endless, which is why it is essential to understand your requirements so that you know what to look for in GPS tracking software.
Are you still wondering what is GPS tracking or what a GPS tracker does? Please feel free to leave your questions below to clear any further doubts.
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