Smart Scheduling and Tracking
What is Gps:
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the Department of Defense. GPS was originally intended for military applications, but in the 1980s, the government made the system available for civilian use. GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. There are no subscription fees or setup charges to use GPS.
How it works:
GPS satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user's exact location. Essentially, the GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away the satellite is. Now, with distance measurements from a few more satellites, the receiver can determine the user's position and display it on the unit's electronic map.
A GPS receiver must be locked on to the signal of at least three satellites to calculate a 2D position (latitude and longitude) and track movement. With four or more satellites in view, the receiver can determine the user's 3D position (latitude, longitude and altitude). Once the user's position has been determined, the GPS unit can calculate other information, such as speed, bearing, track, trip distance, distance to destination, sunrise and sunset time and more.
How accurate is GPS:
Today's GPS receivers are extremely accurate, thanks to their
parallel multi-channel design. 12 parallel channel receivers are quick
to lock onto satellites when first turned on and they maintain strong
locks, even in dense foliage or urban settings with tall buildings.
Certain atmospheric factors and other sources of error can affect the
accuracy of GPS receivers. GPS receivers are accurate to within 15 meters
on average.
Newer GPS receivers with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System)
capability can improve accuracy to less than three meters on average.
No additional equipment or fees are required to take advantage of WAAS.
Users can also get better accuracy with Differential GPS (DGPS),
which corrects GPS signals to within an average of three to five meters.
This system consists of a network of towers that receive GPS signals and
transmit a corrected signal by transmitters. In order to get the
corrected signal, users must have a differential receiver and antenna
in addition to their GPS.
Eight Main Advantages of GPS:
- A GPS system comes with a "panic" button. When this button is pressed an operator at the GPS carrier can listen in on the conversation and either help you out or alert the authorities. This will keep you safe in case of accidents or hi-jacks
- Your car will never loose your car at a football match or mall. The GPS service will track the car for you and send its lights flashing.
- If your vehicle is ever stolen the GPS system will track the vehicle and the authorities will be able to get it back in no time
- A GPS system in a car, boat, plane or haversack will ensure that you are never lost.
- A GPS system streamlines supply chains and truck movements. The system can track goods at any point of time and accurately predict when goods will reach their destination.
- GPS systems are used to detect structural problems in buildings and roads and to predict disasters like earthquakes and so on. The scientific applications of a GPS system are many.
- A GPS system can be used to locate a lost child, pet or family. The device is quite small and is like a watch or button on a collar.
- A GPS is a great exercise monitor and will help you keep track of your speed and so on.