In today's world, GPS technology is nearly unavoidable. The majority of us utilise it on a daily basis without giving it a second thought. But do you truly comprehend it? Do you know how to make the most of GPS tracking to boost the efficiency of your fleet's operations?
Every day, fleet managers use GPS to keep track of their vehicles and other assets. They can obtain data that can assist them in resolving concerns like compliance, efficiency, and safety. How does this happen, though?
What is a GPS Tracker?
A GPS Tracking Device or GPS Tracker is a small, portable gadget that can be used to track and monitor its whereabouts. This device, when attached to practically any object, makes tracking of said object, traceable. Car tracking systems are the most popular application for these devices in automobiles.
There are a few important differences between tracking devices and in-car navigation systems. GPS navigation systems display a driver's location on a digital map and then provide driving directions to a specific destination. GPS trackers, on the other hand, employ GPS technology to keep track of a vehicle's present location and journey history. After that, the GPS data is sent to a computer, smartphone, or tablet.
How does GPS Tracking work?
GPS trackers use a network of satellites to establish their whereabouts. The tracker determines latitude, longitude, elevation, and time through trilateration, which employs the positions of three or more satellites from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) network and their distance from them.
It's easy to figure out how to use a GPS tracker. The onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) connector, a cigarette lighter, an accessory socket, or an internal battery will often power the tracker in the car. The data it collects is then sent to software that allows the user to combine and evaluate the information.
What is the relationship between GPS trackers and the software? Some are active trackers, which can provide users with a real-time view of their global location. A managed service can be built around this type of tracker.
Because passive trackers just store GPS data to be accessed later, they are frequently less expensive than active trackers.
Uses of GPS Trackers
GPS in the Military
The military has been using GPS for more than 50 years to track aircraft, troop movements, and navigation at sea, among other things. In the military, GPS navigation is especially important for soldiers who are stationed in unknown region or who are going at night.
Rescue and Search
GPS tracking is useful in search and rescue operations because it allows rescuers to keep track of where they've been, see the broad picture in a search, or even retrieve GPS data directly from a missing person's GPS gadget or phone.
Vehicle Tracking via GPS
The deployment of GPS devices to track commercial fleets is possibly one of the most significant commercial uses of GPS tracking. Companies using fleets can maintain track of specific driver location and status, gain important insights about fleet performance, and give roadside help instantly if necessary by installing GPS on every vehicle.
Recreational Use of GPS
For outdoor enthusiasts, it has become a standard tool. Some hobbies, such as geocaching, are fully dependent on GPS tracking. Others, like mountain biking, long-distance running, and hiking, benefit from GPS monitoring, which may provide information on speed, distance travelled, and exact location in the wilderness.
