Introduction
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is a network of satellites and receivers used for mapping, tracking, surveillance and navigation. GPS receivers send signals to satellites orbiting the earth. By measuring the exact distance of the receiver from multiple satellites, the position of a receiver can be determined within a matter of meters. GPS devices are commercially available and may serve a number of functions in automobiles.
Mapping and Navigation
GPS navigation devices are widely available for automobile drivers. These receivers have preloaded road maps and address information. By synthesizing the current location, direction and speed of travel with the information from preloaded maps, the receiver can calculate the most efficient route of travel to reach a destination. These devices can calculate detours and recalculate routes of travel as deviations from the predetermined routes occur. Users can set preferences that allow them to control the route the GPS sets. For example, they may set the GPS to avoid certain types of roads or U-turns or tell the GPS device to take a route that is scenic (versus an or interstate or expressway). GPS navigation devices plug into the car through the cigarette lighter, have battery backup and can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield. The map appears on the display screen, and when the audio function is enabled, the devices will tell the driver what roads to take and when to turn.
Vehicle Tracking
Privately owned automobiles and vehicles used for commercial purposes (such as semi-trailer trucks) may have GPS tracking devices installed. These devices are known as data pushers because they send the position of the device to a server that records the movements of the device. In the case of privately owned vehicles, this information is often used for security and theft prevention. When a car is reported stolen, the tracking device may be activated to follow the movements of the car. In the case of commercial fleets, these tracking devices allow the central agency to determine when a truck is running off schedule or off course.
Tags: navigation devices, These devices, tracking devices
