GPS Tracking Basics

Global Positioning System

GPS Tracking device make it possible to track people, vehicles and other assets, anywhere on Earth. There are 27 satellites orbiting the earth, 24 are operational, the other three will become operational if one of the satellites fail. At any given time there are at least three satellites that are visible in the sky from a location. These satellites then triangulate on the position of the GPS tracking device. By continuing to triangulate the coordinates at regular intervals, the satellites can determine the speed of an object, the distance traveled and how long it has been stationary.

GPS has an accuracy of a few meters under good conditions. GPS works best in open environments as the signals from the GPS satellites are quite weak and quickly fade when the line of sight is obscured by obstacles such as buildings.

There are two types of GPS tracking systems on the market today. They are classified as “passive” and “active.”

Not all GPS tracking devices are created equal. When considering the purchase of a GPS tracking unit, comparisons should be made based on accuracy, sensitivity, frequency of sampling points, power sources, reliability, and the software that translates the data into an understandable, easy-to-use format.

The LandAirSea passive GPS tracking devices include the GPS Tracking Key Pro®, GPS Tracking Key and the 3100 series GPS tracking systems.

Accuracy
LandAirSea GPS tracking devices, whether they are active or passive, provide locations that are accurate within 2.5 meters (roughly 6 feet).

Sensitivity
Since GPS Tracking for many users is covert in nature, the tracking device needs to be manufactured in a way that maximizes GPS reception. Most traditional GPS devices need a clear view of the sky and will lose GPS reception if placed in some concealed positions. The LandAirSea line of GPS tracking devices is designed with that concern in mind. They are sensitive enough that they can be hidden in covert locations and still retain good reception.

Frequency of Sampling Points
The LandAirSea passive GPS Tracking devices capture and store GPS signals including time, position, and speed once every second.   Competing products capture data once every five (5) to ten (10) seconds per sampling.  The second-by-second data represents a better flow of information and greater detailed reports.

Power Sources
Because the majority of GPS tracking customers prefer a portable unit, it is critical that the devices use power efficiently. All of LandAirSea’s tracking devices provide a minimum of 20 hours of “wheels in motion” tracking. Internal sensors put the device into sleep mode when the vehicle is not in motion, which will extend battery life.  Users can expect days or even weeks of tracking ability. Results will vary based on the number of hours “in motion” per day.

Reliability
All LandAirSea products go through extensive pre-development research and testing, ensuring that our customers are purchasing products that are at the forefront of GPS tracking technology. These strict requirements have helped LandAirSea become established as an industry leader. Our GPS tracking solutions are the systems of choice, regardless of customer type.

Software
LandAirSea’s vehicle tracking software offers three ways to view and evaluate tracking data, in a user-friendly package that will appeal to both novices and advanced computer users.

  1. Digital street map: Gives a historical, moment-by-moment replay. Shows when and where the vehicle traveled. Screen shows animated tools, including speedometer, clock with second hand and compass.
  2. Google Earth® satellite map: Accurately displays the driving path and stops on a satellite image.
  3. Text activity report: Gives a daily summary, divides driving activity into segments with detailed descriptions including starting address, departure time, time en route, arrival time, miles traveled and how long the vehicle stayed at each location.

The significance of second by second data is critical in providing a comprehensive, fluid replay of any and all historical tracking data.  Any device providing less than second by second recording falls short of these expectations.  As an example, the LandAirSea Passive GPS Tracking devices record 3,600 positions per driving hour whereas competing devices recording every 5 seconds only provide 720 positions per driving hour.

How Passive GPS Tracking Works

How Active GPS Tracking Works

 

 

 

Vehicle Tracking Introduction

To track your vehicles you need to install a GPS tracking device with an Internet connection in each vehicle. The tracking devices will connect to a central GpsGate Server with real time position updates.

The process of tracking a vehicle can be split into these three steps:

  1. Locating the vehicle: This is done by installing a GPS tracking device in each vehicle you want to track. There are many options with small portable GPS devices, vehicle mounted GPS devices and software clients for vehicles that are equipped with laptops or PDA:s.

  2. Sending the vehicle position to a GpsGate Server: The position information received by the GPS devices is sent to a centrally located GpsGate Server in real time. This is usually done over a GPRS or SMS in a mobile communication network using a standard mobile data subscription. You can also use a satellite communication link in areas with poor mobile network coverage.

    A dedicated GPS tracking device has both a GPS receiver and a mobile (or satellite) communication module built in for this purpose. Other devices with an Internet connection, such as a laptop or PDA with a mobile broadband connection are also suitable clients. It is even possible to use selected mobile phones.

  3. Using the vehicle position: When a vehicle position is sent to the GpsGate Server is can be viewed in a web browser in real time. You can create rules so that position updates trigger alerts over email and SMS for instance when a user is speeding, fuel is stolen, a vehicle leaves or enters an area, and so on. Reports can also be created to show vehicle usage, alert history, etc.

 


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