A GPS tracker is a device that can track the location of an object on Earth and transmit that data to a receiver. Although these devices are often associated with vehicles or people, they can also be used to track animals, boats, planes, and even goods. But how exactly does a GPS tracker work?
The key to how it works is by using GPS signals. GPS stands for Global Positioning System and it is a worldwide navigation satellite system operated by the US government. It consists of a series of satellites orbiting the Earth approximately 12,000 miles from Earth. A GPS tracker uses these satellite signals to determine its own position. It does this by receiving signals from at least four satellites and using the time measurements to determine the distance to each satellite.
The tracker can then use these distances to calculate its own position on Earth. Once calculated, the tracker’s position can be transmitted to a receiver, which can then display the data on a map. This can be done either via a mobile data connection or a satellite connection. Some GPS trackers also broadcast their position periodically, allowing the receiver to track the tracker’s movements in real time. Some GPS trackers also have additional features, such as the ability to set up a geofence that will trigger a notification when the tracker enters or exits a specific geographic region.
Others also have activity tracking that records steps or heart rate. Overall, a GPS tracker is an essential tool for tracking and monitoring objects around the world. It uses signals from the GPS system to provide precise and reliable data on an object’s position and allows the receiver to track and analyze this data in real time.