GPS Tracker Explained

GPS Tracker Explained

A GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking device is a small, handheld unit that allows users to pinpoint a vehicle’s location. It uses a network of satellites and devices on the ground to establish a person’s or object’s precise location on Earth.

How a GPS tracker works

To locate and determine a user’s position, a GPS tracker must receive signals from dozens of GPS satellites. These signals are broadcast by the atomic clocks on each of the satellites and contain timestamps and unique IDs that help identify the location information.

When a signal is received, the GPS tracker calculates the distance and time it took to receive the signal. It then sends this data to a central server for storage and processing.

Benefits of GPS Tracking

The main benefit that a GPS tracker provides is the ability to track a person’s location in real-time. This can be incredibly useful from a safety and security perspective, for example, if someone is lost or in distress or even if a child or teen drives off without their parents.

personal safety alarms Moreover, GPS trackers can also be used for fleet management purposes. They can enable fleet managers to monitor drivers’ driving habits and improve ETAs for customers.

How to Install a GPS Tracker

The installation process differs slightly between devices, but the key is to check your manual first. Some GPS trackers plug into the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) port, which is located under the dash near the driver’s legs. Others use an auxiliary power source such as a cigarette lighter adapter or battery to provide power for the tracker.