All about GPS Tracking

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) developed by the United States Department of Defense. It uses a constellation of between 24 and 32 Medium Earth Orbit satellites that transmit precise radio wave signals, which allow GPS receivers to determine their current location, the time, and their velocity.rnA GPS tracking unit is a device that uses the Global Positioning System to determine the precise location of a vehicle, person, or other asset to which it is attached and to record the position of the asset at regular intervals. The recorded location data can be stored within the tracking unit, or it may be transmitted to a central location data base, or internet-connected computer, using a cellular (GPRS), radio, or satellite modem embedded in the unit. This allows the asset's location to be displayed against a map backdrop either in real-time or when analysing the track later, using customized software.rnA GPS receiver calculates its position by precisely timing the signals sent by the GPS satellites high above the Earth. Each satellite continually transmits messages containing the time the message was sent, precise orbital information (the ephemeris), and the general system health and rough orbits of all GPS satellites (the almanac). The receiver measures the transit time of each message and computes the distance to each satellite. Geometric trilateration is used to combine these distances with the location of the satellites to determine the receiver's location. The position is displayed, perhaps with a moving map display or latitude and longitude; elevation information may be included. Many GPS units also show derived information such as direction and speed, calculated from position changes.rnIn general, GPS receivers are composed of an antenna, tuned to the frequencies transmitted by the satellites, receiver-processors, and a highly-stable clock (often a crystal oscillator). They may also include a display for providing location and speed information to the user.rnHow to use web based GPS tracking?rnOnce you register with the GPS service provider for the service, your vehicle(s) will be fitted with GPS / GPRS based Vehicle Mounted Hardware (VMH). After this, you would be given a user name and password to access your vehicle information and reports from the service provider’s website. A good service provider will also have a support desk in place, who will help you online and through phone. To make the drivers feel safe, a button will be fixed on the dash board. On pressing this, (during the occasion of any panic/ traffic problem etc) an sms / email will be sent to the vehicle owner. With an online GPS tracking, you can get Real time vehicle information, do various analysis using historic data, define vehicle routes, alerts in case of unauthorised vehicle movements, receive email notification etc. This way, the GPS tracking service will help you to manage your vehicles efficiently and cut down fuel expenses. It also makes the journey of your passengers safer. More information about vehicle tracking service is available at the Elanor website, www.elanor.in.