GPS Vehicle Tracking Devices explained

There are number of misconceptions about GPS vehicle tracking devices and how they work.

Here are some simple basics about GPS vehicle tracking devices and the technology they use.

GPS Tracking Devices have been around for a number of years, but now, with the low cost of technology and wireless services, tracking with GPS devices in vehicles has never been more popular.

First, a GPS vehicle tracking device has the following components:

A GPS receiver - this receiver communicates with the GPS satellite system which orbits the earth. These satellites send a lower power signal to the earth's surface and when combined with the signal of two other GPS satellites, a GPS receiver can pin point its' location.

Further, using that same location information, speed, sudden stops and idling can be extrapolated as well from the device.

A radio - the radio in the GPS vehicle tracking device is a two way radio using cellular or satellite communications typically. There are other devices which use private radio spectrum or Wide Band (WiFi) services, but they are not as widespread or ubiquitous in their coverage.

The radio using cellular networks communicates with the celluar network and transmits data over IP (Internet Protocol) or SMS (Short Messaging Services). The data collected from the vehicle by the device is transmitted to an IP based application on the internet which collates and collects the data and communicates with the device.

A satellite based system performs the same functionality, but based upon the device, may send smaller amounts of data on a delayed network using short burst messaging.

The GPS vehicle tracking devices is typically in a ruggedized enclosure with the GPS receiver and wireless radio, but there are more components.

Some inputs and outputs for communicating with the vehicle. These may include ignition on/off, air bag deployment, door unlock, or alarms.

Also, there are power inputs to power the vehicle tracking device with the vehicle power, but batteries are common as well.

Finally, may GPS vehicle tracking devices have external antennas which allow better communications with the GPS system and the wireless networks.

The vehicle tracking device may be readily visible to the driver, however, often for security reasons it is installed inside the vehicle in the truck or behind the firewall.

GPS Vehicle Tracking Devices are used for fleet tracking, security applications, family protection, lone worker programs and auto finance.

With the lower costs and widespread use, expect to see more vehicle tracking devices on the road and in the business enterprise.