FAQA sharper Business

1. What is GPS?

GPS is an acronym that stands for Global Positioning System. one of a few satellite navigational systems; however it is the only fully functional system currently in service. Each satellite transmits radio signals which can be received by GPS receivers to determine location, speed and direction. GPS was first introduced in 1978, but was only in its experimental stages due to the few satellites that orbited the earth. However, ever since its launch, it has been an extremely important, practical and an indispensable technology. It should be noted that GPS is a free service offered for the public good.

2. How does GPS work?

In order for GPS tracking to work, it is necessary to have both access to the Global Positioning System and have a GPS receiver. The GPS receiver is able to receive signals that are transmitted by GPS satellites orbiting over head. Once these satellite transmissions are received by the GPS receiver, location and other information such as speed and direction can be calculated. A GPS receiver needs to receive transmissions from at least three or more GPS satellites to calculate its position effectively. GPS receivers usually measure the time delays between the transmission and reception of each of the satellites GPS radio signal. This technique of calculating distance using three separate transmissions is called trilateration.

3. What is GPRS?

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is a digital, IP-based wireless packet data service offered by GSM-based cellular carriers, there is not a new technology out there on the market. GPS Tracker & GPRS or General Packet Radio Services has been around for quite some time. Established in the early 2000’s, GPRS is an extension of the Global System for Mobile Communications.

4. How does your device communicate?

The devices communicate on the cellular network of GSM/GPRS through wireless provider communicates via the Satellite network, globally. All devices have a GPS chip set included in them as well. This allows the devices to get location coordinates from the 24 GPS satellites orbiting the Earth. The location specific information is then transmitted over the cellular network allowing device to place the vehicles location on our mapping system.

5. Is this "real time" tracking?

GPS tracking Systems provides its customers "real time" tracking, with GPS devices updated their specific location based on a customer chosen tracking interval. The devices can all in real time, and there is no need to download daily data or plug the device into an interface to extract data at the end of the work day.

6. What are the limitations of the technology?

Since the devices utilize both cellular technology as well as GPS technology, there are certain instances where the device is out of cellular coverage, thus requiring to "store and forward" its locations until cellular communications are reacquired. Once reacquired, all stored data is transferred automatically. In regards to the limitations of GPS technology, if the line of sight to the GPS mounted antenna is obstructed, GPS communications can be lost. It is important that antenna installation is done properly to avoid complications.