How Global Positioning System (GPS) Works

Jan 3

09:01

2011

AlexGerrard

A GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite navigation system that obtains the location (latitude and longitude) of a GPS receiver on the earth by utilizing more than 24 global positioning satellites that are orbiting the earth. Originally, this system was the creative work done by deep thinkers at John Hopkins University toward the late 1950s.GPS has become more and more refined over the years, providing consumers with the ability to get from point A to point B much more easily than they had in the past.

It can be difficult to understand how a GPS unit works. It is somewhat of a complicated process. But it is not so difficult that one cannot attempt to understand it.GPS satellites circle the earth twice a day in the same orbit and transmit signal information to down to mother earth. The radio signals contain the satellite's position and time of transmission of the satellite. The GPS receiver determines its position by evaluating the signals.The main goal of this awesome array of satellites and their lineup is to send accurately timed signals to the GPS set owned or operated by an individual here on the planet.The GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away from the satellite it is.

It then takes several of these position lines, puts them together, and makes a decision as to where something is. It can display this result both as a latitude and longitude.A GPS receiver must be locked on to the signal of at least three satellites to calculate a 2d position (latitude and longitude) and track movement.The 3D fix can take the height of an antenna into account and provides a different reference point than the ground level to increase accuracy.GPS tracking systems can display information in real-time and there is a map displayed that will show the current location of the object. The location of the object will normally be recorded at regular time intervals.

Today's GPS receivers are extremely accurate, thanks to parallel multi-channel design. GPS units work in pretty much all weather types and circumstances. Even those in rainy and snowy areas will have no problem using their GPS System. Many people believe that to make the most of the GPS technology they have to buy the most expensive unit on the market, but this is not necessarily true.All of the units use the same technology.

At this time the global positioning system is owned by the United States. It is available to other countries. GPS vehicle tracking is very valuable to a company, particularly when used in the fleet management of a large number of vehicles. A GPS tracking system will provide peace of mind for both individual vehicle owners and a company that has a fleet of vehicles.

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