GPS tracking definition
GPS tracking is the system of monitoring the location of an object(e.g., car, person, animal, equipment, etc.) by attaching aGPS tracking device to it. At its simplest levelthe tracking device is fitted with a GPS receiver and some way to record itscurrent location (i.e., latitude and longitude) at regular intervals.
See our GPS tracking solutionHow does GPS tracking work?
Global positioning system (GPS) tracking usesmore than 30 satellites in orbitto track the location of an object or device. GPS satellites submit signalsthat a GPS tracker receives, and this signal is used to obtain detailedinformation about the device’s location.
Who can utilize GPS tracking?
GPS tracking has many uses and offers benefits for individuals and businesses.One of the most prevalent uses is in fleet management,GPS tracking applications provide access to the location of assets, but theyalso help with tracking vehicle maintenance schedules, monitoring fuel usage,and analyzing trends in driver behavior.
GPS tracking for assets
Because of its ability to track a device’s location, GPS tracking is incrediblyuseful for asset management. It can help recover equipment in the event oftheft or loss. Some tracking systems can even send automatic alerts if theymove outside of a designated area.
Combined with telematics, GPS tracking can also provide a larger picture andset of data that helps with asset management. This can include things likemonitoring equipment performance or scheduling maintenance when it is needed,rather than on a predetermined schedule.
Benefits of GPS tracking
GPS tracking is beneficial due to the practical data it can provide. Informationfrom GPS tracking can be used to optimize routes, protect assets, and obtainreal-time fleet management information. This data can help in several ways:
- Location monitoring: Real-time tracking of asset location helps monitorvehicles, equipment, and high-value items, which can help to recover assetsthat are lost or stolen.
- Improved productivity: GPS tracking can monitor usage patterns and idletime, which can help to identify bottlenecks and improve productivity.
- Enhanced customer service: For businesses such as delivery services,GPS tracking can offer customers real-time updates about delivery times.
- Cost savings: Overall, the insights gained from GPS tracking can leadto significant savings by improving efficiency, reducing theft, improvingmaintenance and more.
Businesses can protect their investments and gain critical insights that helpto manage resources and make more informed decisions all by using GPS tracking.
Frequently asked questions about GPS tracking
What is a GPS tracking device?
A GPS tracking device is a piece of hardware that can be attached to avehicle or other asset that can communicate with GPS satellites to obtainprecise location data. This data can be stored on the unit, or transmittedto a central database where it can be analyzed later.
While the basic functionality of a GPS tracking device provides spatialdata, more advanced units can include accelerometers for tracking speed,or temperature sensors for monitoring environmental conditions.
What is GPS tracking (global positioning system)?
GPS tracking is a method of monitoring the location of an object, person,or vehicle through the Global Positioning System. It involves placing aGPS-enabled device, or tracker, on the object to be monitored. The devicecommunicates with GPS satellites and uses these signals to calculate itsexact position.
This location data is then transmitted via cellular or satellite communicationto a central server that is accessible to users. Through a software application,users can view real-time or historical data transmitted this way, whichcan be used for fleet management, asset tracking, personal safety andnavigation, and more.
What commercial vehicles have GPS tracking built-in?
Many commercial vehicles from leading automotive companies come withGPS tracking as a built-in feature.This includes many different types of vehicles and equipment, and applicationssuch as Verizon Connect make it easy to keep track of diverse fleets.
Will I need to upgrade my computer to use GPS tracking?
Because many modern GPS tracking solutions use the Software as a Service(SaaS) model, device demands are relatively low. As long as your computeror device can use a modern web browser and has internet access, it shouldbe compatible with a service such as Verizon Connect.
The SaaS model also means that the installation and software upgradeprocesses are streamlined, since they are mostly handled server-side. Thishelps to expand compatibility across a wide range of devices.
Where can I get GPS tracking hardware?
Depending on your specific GPS tracking needs, different types of GPStracking hardware can be purchased from different sources. Tracking hardwarecan be obtained from online retailers, specialty electronics stores,directly from the manufacturer, or from a telecommunication company suchas Verizon Connect.
When purchasing GPS tracking hardware, it’s important to consider factorssuch as battery life, features like real-time tracking, and compatibilitywith your tracking software or platform. Furthermore, it’s important toconsider the reliability and reputation of the device manufacturer, andif they offer services like installation or technical support.
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GPS fleet tracking
Our GPS fleet tracking software monitors your entire mobile workforcewith increased visibility through our easy-to-use dashboards, detailedmaps and apps.
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GPS asset tracking
With GPS asset tracking software from Verizon Connect, you can monitorequipment and on-site assets while improving security, utilization anduptime.
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