What is GPS?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. This is a satellite network that was developed in the nineteen seventies by the USA as part of their defense program. Later, under President Bill Clinton, the Global Positioning System was opened up for civilian use as well.

There are 24 satellites in operation and 3 extra stand-by ones, so 27 satellites in all. They allow you to track objects or vehicles by providing you with information about the exact position – by giving you the altitude, longitude, and latitude – of the object or vehicles being tracked.

With the technological development in the personal gadgetry field, the use of GPS is becoming more and more popular.

What is Real Time GPS Tracking System?
With a Real Time GPS Tracking System, you can obtain detailed and current information about the vehicle or object that is being tracked through wireless networks. It is called ‘Real Time’ because you are getting information as it happens, as opposed to ‘Passive’ systems where you get to check the information afterwards.

How does a Real Time GPS Tracking System work?
A Real Time GPS Tracking System works on the same wireless principle as a cell phone. However, the Global Positioning System satellites are separate from communication satellites.

A GPS locater device, which is often very small and can be installed very easily and without anyone noticing it, is placed in the vehicle and through this the vehicle can be monitored and many of its features controlled.

The older GPS locater devices have separate modems and antennas to collect GPS date; the more recent versions are smaller and self-contained. The GPS locater devices collect and transmit the GPS data via wireless networks like Analog, GPRS or Mobitex and the information can be viewed over the Internet by the user from any location. Updates are usually every five minutes or so, you can program this feature to suit your convenience.

What are the uses of a GPS Real Time Tracking System?
The GPS Real Time Tracking System was originally intended only for military use. The US Military developed it to be used in precision weapon delivery. Now GPS tracking devices are widely available for civilian use.

GPS Real Time Tracking System can give you specific information about the vehicle’s current location and about its previous locations, and the overall mileage. It informs you about the vehicle’s speed – you are alerted if the vehicle exceeds the legal speed limit – and about the various stops the vehicle makes. You receive geo-fencing alerts, alerts about the battery status, whether it is getting low, and about whether the oil needs to be changed. You can remote control the vehicle’s door locks, lights, horn, and various other electronic devices. You can send emails, have a two way communication with the drivers, inform them about the routes to be taken and so on. If you want to pick up a delivery from a certain location, you can track your vehicle nearest to the area and dispatch them over without loss of time.

The GPS Locater Device also allows you to remotely turn on or turn off the ignition. Think about it. Someone steals your car and you turn off the ignition, lock the car doors, and inform the police of the exact location so that all they have to do is go and picked up the trapped thief.

GPS Real Time Tracking Systems are very popular with people in the transportation business. It is a good way for fleet owners to keep an eye on their vehicles and track their movements and ensure that there is no misuse on the parts of the drivers.

Many parents are also resorting to the use of a GPS Real Time Tracking System to keep an eye on the activities of their teenagers.

Installing a GPS Real Time Tracking System may be a bit expensive to start out with, but in the long run it is worth the expense. You don’t have to worry about getting ripped off in your business and you can monitor the safety of your loved ones.