We live in a tech-driven world where GPS tracking has become a crucial aspect of several industries. From fleet business optimisation to enhancing personal safety, understanding how GPS technology works is essential.
This article will delve into the complexity of tracking vehicles using GPS and explore the underlying mechanisms that power this technology. So, without further ado, lets get started
What is GPS Vehicle Tracking, and How Does it Work?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is powered by a global radio navigation system comprising at least 24 satellites that orbit the Earth. These satellites emit signals that are received by GPS devices on the ground. These devices can be installed in vehicles and are also found in smartphones.
By collecting signals from multiple satellites, these devices calculate the accurate location and speed of the vehicle. This data is then sent to your laptop or mobile phone using the cellular network. Now, lets know how a GPS vehicle tracking system works in your fleet.
GPS tracking process in your fleet
Here are the steps in which the tracking process happens in your fleet:
The tracking device gets installed into a vehicle to gather all sorts of data, ranging from speed to diagnostics
It uses GPS to know the accurate location of the vehicle.
The GPS tracking device gathers data from the vehicle and stores it
This data then gets transmitted using a cellular network
It travels through the cellular network and reaches the server
The server acts as a cloud that allows you to access the information using a laptop or smartphone.
Types of GPS tracking devices
There are three types of GPS trackers:
Plug-In Vehicle GPS Trackers
Trackers that are connected to a vehicles port are known as plug-in GPS trackers( OBD GPS trackers). They obtain the data from the vehicles sensors. Although the location of OBD trackers varies depending on the vehicle, they are generally located beneath the steering wheel or slightly above the drivers knees.
What is so special about them? Theyre compact, easy to install, and have the ability to draw data from the vehicle regardless of whether the ignition is on or off. This feature allows you to remove them effortlessly and use them on as many vehicles as you want.
Hardwired Car GPS Trackers
These GPS trackers are connected directly to the car. When a vehicle lacks OBD, these can be used to save the day. If you are looking for a hidden GPS tracker for vehicles, this can be your go-to device. Since they cant be connected to the OBD port, hardwired trackers are often placed under the dashboard. If installed correctly, it offers all the benefits of the plug-in tracker.
Portable Battery-Powered GPS Trackers
These are battery-operated GPS trackers that dont heavily rely on the vehicles power supply. Just like any other tracking device, they broadcast their locations to servers. The batteries in these trackers are long-lasting.
Read Also:- How to Track Vehicles Without GPS?
How can GPS tracking help overcome business challenges?
One of the biggest challenges that fleet businesses face is a lack of visibility. GPS tracking can easily help them overcome this challenge. How? By offering the accurate location of the vehicles in real-time. Also, by integrating GPR tracking with fleet telematics solutions such as Driver behaviour Monitoring, Route planning, and the Advanced Driver Management System, fleet managers can run their fleet operations seamlessly.
They have the flexibility to easily assign routes to the drivers and monitor harmful driving patterns such as overspeeding, idling, and unauthorised lane switching. Whats more? They can monitor driver working hours, and in the event that drivers indulge in unhealthy practices while driving, such as smoking, fleet managers can spot them then and there. This further gives them a chance to offer proper training and feedback.
It's a step towards building safer and more accountable drivers, isnt it?
Go beyond GPS tracking with TrackoBit!
We have already talked about the benefits of integrating GPS tracking with fleet telematics solutions, right? So, now its time to take some action towards streamlining your business operations. Schedule a demo with TrackoBit today and hear back from our experts.
Source:- How to Track a Vehicle With GPS- How It Works
FAQs
Can I use a smartphone as a GPS Tracker for vehicles?
Yes, you can use a smartphone as a GPS tracker for vehicles. Theyre well-equipped with GPS technology that enables them to accurately determine their location. There are several GPS tracking apps available for smartphones that turn them into vehicle trackers. These apps use the phones built-in GPS receiver to gather location information and transfer it to the server. Examples of such apps are Google Maps and Find My Device.
Can I Track A Stolen vehicle's Location with GPS?
Yes, you can track a stolen vehicles location with GPS, provided that the vehicle is equipped with built-in GPS trackers or has them installed. These devices can help you track and recover your stolen vehicles by offering real-time location information.
