GPS or Global Positioning Satellites are used to track locations of objects that are wirelessly connected to them. The specific process is known as trilateration to triangulate the physical location of an object based on its distance from three GPS satellites.
GPS is now used widely in everything from autonomous automobile technology to simple geo-tracking devices used to locate someone who might be lost in the woods. The two primary areas of GPS, however, are GPS navigation and GPS tracking.
Consumers and businesses use GPS navigation in their vehicles on a daily basis. In business, GPS is used in a variety of ways but mostly for locating and tracking items belonging to the company. These could be executives who work for the company or fleets of vehicles that are picking up or delivering key company items.
What is GPS Navigation?
GPS navigation is a tool that lets you know where your vehicle is on an ongoing basis and then to put your vehicle on a mapping program. It can help you to avoid traffic congestion and reroute you to roads with less traffic. There are also personal navigation devices that are very helpful if you are places where you are not familiar. Examples are when travelling, in the woods camping, or backpacking. You can use a GPS navigation device to identify where you are and what is near you. If you are in danger or need medical assistance. You can easily locate professionals to help you.
What is GPS Tracking?
A GPS tracking device is with either a handheld or strategically placed device that allows the person, thing or vehicle to be tracked using GPS. These devices are typically very small and can be sewn into a piece of clothing, worn on a wrist or in a ring, or embedded into a car chassis. It will constantly send signals to the satellites and provide information on the location and status of the person, vehicle or item.
GPS Tracking Devices
GPS tracking utilizes tracking devices and GPS navigation allowing you to know exactly where you are at all times but also adds a host of other benefits that businesses use to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
Using a GPS Tracker
Most GPS trackers plug into the onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) connector located under the dashboard of the vehicle. Some also plug into a cigarette lighter or accessory socket. In either case, they draw continuous power from the vehicle’s battery. Others have their own battery and can be installed and used anywhere. These batteries will need to be charged regularly.
GPS trackers come with their own software and can be controlled by a computer, phone or tablet where you can view the dashboard and receive real-time information.
GPS Software Systems
Companies purchase GPS software systems that have navigation and tracking as their foundations and that offer a wide range of features that help them to manage their fleet vehicles. These software packages offer the ability to track the speed and direction of any vehicle. You can reroute vehicles in real time based on changing traffic conditions. You can estimate the cost of travelling on the fly. Decide where each vehicle needs to stop for gas in order to make the best time. Have a full diagnostic of each vehicle and be able to potentially anticipate service issues. Improve the efficiency of each individual driver on the fly. And keep customers fully informed as to the timing of delivery of any products to them. There are additional services that collectively help companies to more efficiently manage their fleet operations and maintenance and upkeep of their vehicles.
Margherita Ceresa an enthusiastic editor and writer at ExtraLargeAsLife.com. She has worked with many publications as a senior editor. Known for her incredible passion for everything new, she is a champion of celebrity news & lifestyle writing.