What is a GPS vehicle tracking device?
A GPS vehicle tracking device is a small piece of hardware that is installed in a vehicle that monitors vehicle location, driver behaviour and engine diagnostics. It uses secure cellular networks to transmit data to a software platform where it is made available to fleet operators, in graphical interfaces and reports.
GPS vehicle tracking devices work in tandem with GPS fleet tracking software to give fleets real-time updates and alerts, based on data sent directly from the vehicle to the software operator. The second layer of data indicates if vehicles are operating optimally, or if drivers are reaching their destinations in a timely, safe manner.
A global positioning system (GPS) is a network of satellites and receiving devices used to determine the location of something on Earth. Some GPS receivers are so accurate they can establish their location within 1 centimeter. GPS receivers provide location in latitude, longitude, and altitude. They also provide the accurate time.
GPS includes 24 satellites that circle Earth in precise orbits. Each satellite makes a full orbit of Earth every 12 hours. These satellites are constantly sending out radio signals.
GPS receivers are programmed to receive information about where each satellite is at any given moment. A GPS receiver determines its own location by measuring the time it takes for a signal to arrive at its location from at least four satellites. Because radio waves travel at a constant speed, the receiver can use the time measurements to calculate its distance from each satellite.
Using multiple satellites makes the GPS data more accurate. If a GPS receiver calculates its distance from only one satellite, it could be that exact distance from the satellite in any direction. Think of the satellite as a flashlight. When you shine it on the ground, you get a circle of light. With one satellite, the GPS receiver could be anywhere in that circle of light. With two more satellites, there are two more circles. These three circles intersect, or cross, in only one place. That is the location of the GPS receiver. This method of determining location is called trilateration.
Aircraft, ships, submarines, trains, and the space shuttle all use GPS to navigate. Many people use receivers when driving cars. The GPS receiver plots the car’s constantly-changing location on an electronic map. The map provides directions to the person’s destination. Both the location and the vehicle are plotted using satellite data. Some hikers use GPS to help them find their way, especially when they are not on marked trails.