How Does GPS Vehicle Tracking Work?

GPS vehicle tracking systems are not all the same. Depending on the specific functions of your fleet, you could require one of two types of vehicle tracking systems. To make that decision, it helps to understand how GPS tracking works. Below, find information regarding the mechanics of GPS vehicle tracking, as well as the primary differences in vehicle tracking methods. As always, contact Track Your Truck with any questions you have regarding GPS vehicle tracking systems, software and devices.

How Does GPS Work?

The simple answer is that orbiting satellites watch your vehicle from above. However, it’s obviously a bit more complex than that. According the U.S. Department of Defense, 24 satellites orbit the Earth and transmit signals to the ground (additional satellites are on standby but are not actively in use). Each orbits the planet every 12 hours, and they are strategically placed for impressively accurate triangulation.

What Is Triangulation?

To fully understand how GPS tracking works, you should have a basic understanding of triangulation. In short, this method requires at least three active satellites but can view as many as twelve simultaneously. On the ground, a gps tracking device receives signals from the GPS satellites whereby each satellite knows the exact distance from the other satellites in its proximity.  Depending on the time it takes for a signal to reach the device from each satellite, the GPS receiver can calculate it’s exact location on the  ground. 

How Precise Is GPS?

Extremely. Considering the distance a signal must travel – from space – the accuracy of GPS tracking is remarkable. If you have ever used a handheld GPS device, you know that your tracking dot can pinpoint whether you are at an intersection or between two blocks. GPS devices can tell you your location within just a few dozen feet. The accuracy of the GPS device depends largely on atmospheric conditions, the speed you are traveling, your location and the type of GPS vehicle tracking device you are using – which brings us to our next point.

Cellular vs. Satellite Tracking Devices

Now that you understand the basics of how GPS works, we can expand on the differences between cellular and satellite tracking devices. This boils down to the type of wireless network that best suits your purposes.

• Cellular Vehicle Tracking. This type of tracking is typically used in urban areas, or areas with reliable cellular network coverage. Depending on your region, different wireless companies, such as AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, can provide you with better coverage options.
• Satellite Vehicle Tracking. Satellite tracking is preferable for fleets traveling in rural areas, or fleets traveling in and out of reliable coverage zones.

Track Your Truck is a supplier of both types of devices. Our devices offer different features and tracking options – such as frequency of updates and the “Starter Kill” option that only permits vehicles to be operated based on pre-determined schedules. Our devices are highly durable and provide information on speed, location and direction of travel.

Browse our website to learn more about individual devices, or contact a Track Your Truck representative.