How GPS Tracking Works – Information
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Basically it means being able to locate anything in a certain position on the globe through the use of satellite tracking. Most people are familiar with GPS tracking for cars, but it can be used to track anything that has an appropriate device attached that can send a signal. The system works through a series of satellites that continuously orbit the Earth. It was originally designed by the U.S. military to use for navigational purposes.
The satellites themselves weigh between 3,000 – 4,000 pounds and travel at a speed of 12,000 miles, which means they make two complete rotations around the Earth every day.
The satellites are arranged in the atmosphere above the Earth. At any given time there are four that are visible in the sky as seen from the surface of the Earth. A GPS unit that is used as a receiver sends its signal out to one of the four satellites in its area. The satellite sends the signal back to the receiver and this how a GPS tracking device can determine its position on the Earth.
Another factor in using the satellites to determine an object’s location is time. By using the four satellites within its signal range, the satellites determine the time the signals were sent in conjunction with how far away the satellite is to determine the exact location of the object.
The GPS receiver actually sends its signal to more than one satellite to determine its exact position. When the GPS device receives the information back, it then displays its location on the monitor’s map.
The design of the GPS receiver makes the device extremely accurate even in areas where there may be interference from very high buildings such as skyscrapers. The newest receivers use what is called a WAAS (wide area augmentation system) which can greatly improve the transmission of the GPS device.
Of course the units vary in construction depending on the manufacturer of the product. If you are considering using GPS tracking for cars, talk to your local authorized dealer to make sure you get the exact device you want to have.
The first GPS satellite ever launched into space was in 1978. Even though there are now 27 in total, only 24 of them are actually operational at this time. The satellites are built to have a life expectancy of about 10 years. There are some external factors that can cause interference in the transmissions to and from the satellites.
The ionosphere itself can cause the signal to slow down, although the satellites are built to take this delay into consideration when sending signals. The signal path can also be interrupted by having it bounce off of other surfaces before reaching the satellite. And on Earth, the GPS receiving unit itself can also have an internal clock error which could read the signal back wrong and cause it to place itself in a different location.
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