GPS vehicle tracking system: How does it work? (2024)

FAQs

GPS vehicle tracking system: How does it work? ›

With GPS tracking, information about the exact position of a vehicle or person is transmitted via mobile radio, Wi-Fi or radio frequencies. The tracking itself works with a radio navigation system that is currently supported by around 24 satellites and their ground stations.

GPS navigation systems show drivers their location on a digital map and then provide driving instructions to get to a designated point. On the other hand, GPS trackers use GPS technology to track a vehicle's current location and trip history. The GPS data is then broadcasted to a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

GPS does not require any form of internet connectivity. GPS depends on signals from satellites. Anyone can harness these signals using a GPS receiver. You can test this fact by turning off the internet connection on your phone and using Google Maps.

It facilitates the constant connection to the internet, allowing the device to send real-time or periodic location updates. Without a SIM card, the tracker might still acquire its location, but it would be like a phone without a signal – unable to communicate its findings to the outside world.

A vehicle tracking device will look like a small box, about 3-4 inches long, 2 inches wide, and about an inch thick.

An unknown tracker alert is sent when someone else's tracker device is separated from them and if your Android phone detects the tracker is traveling with you and out of Bluetooth range from the owner. The notification alerts you to the tracker and tells you how to find it and what to do next.

The best way to check for an implant would be to have an X-ray performed. RFID transponders have metal antennas that would show up in an X-ray. You could also look for a scar on the skin. Because the needle used to inject the transponder under the skin would be quite large, it would leave a small but noticeable scar.

Another way to disable a GPS tracker is to wrap the device in tinfoil. This blocks out any cellular or satellite signal from reaching the device. Any electrically-conductive metal will interfere with incoming and outgoing GPS signals. This is a cheap and easy method to prevent yourself from being tracked.

There are a few signs that may indicate your car is bugged. If you notice unusual sounds or interference on your phone or radio, or if you see strange wires or devices in your car, it's possible that your car may be bugged.

These devices often feature a miniature radio transmitter and microphone and are usually battery-operated. Some may need to be connected to a power source for long-term use. Recognising signs like unusual buzzing sounds or strange phone behaviour can be key indicators of the presence of a listening device.

Do car trackers work when the car is off? ›

So for some models of car trackers, they will not track the location of the vehicle if it is off. On the other hand, some models of car trackers have their own internal batteries that can operate independently without requiring the car to be on.

GPS tracking on your phone works just as well without internet connectivity or cellular service. We are constantly surrounded by Global Positioning System signals from satellites orbiting the planet. Your phone is continuously tracking these signals to get an estimate of your location even when you are offline.

Just like your phone needs a signal to make calls and use the internet, GPS trackers need a signal to find their location and share data with you.

A GPS tracker is one of the advanced tools that helps track cars, assets, pets, and people. Unfortunately, most GPS trackers require monthly subscription fees. It can be too costly for some people to pay the fees. It's prudent for them to buy the best GPS trackers with no monthly fee.

GPS tracking requires a device to be installed in a vehicle, on an asset, or to be worn by a person. The device then provides information about its exact location and subsequent movements, enabling tracking in real-time.

The primary purpose of this GPS technology is to track and report your vehicle's real-time location. The data can be utilized in various ways, reporting information such as speed, direction, idle time, diagnostics and breadcrumb trails of where the vehicle has traveled.

Hardwired GPS trackers are hardwired into the car's electrical system and can track the location even when the car isn't running.