How GPS Tracking Works

A GPS Tracking device can enable anyone to track the location of a person, a vehicle, or an asset anywhere on the earth. There are 27 satellites orbiting the earth, 24 are operational, the other three will become operational if one of the satellites fail. At any given time there are at least three satellites that are visible in the sky from a location. These satellites could then triangulate on the position of the GPS tracking device attached to the object targeted. By continually triangulating the coordinates on a regular interval, the satellites could determine the speed, distance traveled, and how long an object remains stationary.

There are two types of GPS Tracking systems in the market and these are classified as Passive and Active. 

Passive GPS Tracking

Active GPS Tracking

Not all GPS Tracking devices are created equal.   When considering a GPS tracking unit, comparisons should be based upon accuracy, sensitivity, frequency of sampling points, power resources, reliability, and software that translates this raw data into an effective tracking resource tool. 

The LandAirSea passive GPS Tracking devices include the GPS Tracking Key and GPS Tracking system 3100 series

Accuracy

  The Land Air Sea line of GPS Tracking Devices, whether active or passive, provides 2.5 meter (roughly 6 foot) accuracy. 
 

Sensitivity

  Since GPS Tracking for many users is covert in nature, the tracking device needs to be manufactured in a way that maximizes GPS reception.  Most traditional GPS devices need a clear view of the sky and will lose GPS reception if placed in a compromising position.  The LandAirSea line of GPS Tracking devices are designed with these concerns in mind providing the ability to hide the unit in effective, covert locations. 

Frequency of Sampling Points

  The LandAirSea passive GPS Tracking devices capture and store GPS signals including time, position, and speed once every second.   Competing products capture data once every five (5) to ten (10) seconds per sampling.  The second by second data provides more fluid, detailed reporting information.

Power Resources

  Because the highest percentage of GPS Tracking customers require portability, it is critical that the devices are power efficient.  All LandAirSea tracking devices provide a minimum of 20 hours of “wheels in motion” tracking.  With motion sensor technology built-in, you can expect days or even weeks of tracking ability.  Results will vary based upon the number of hours “in motion” per day.
 

Reliability

  All products offered by LandAirSea go through extensive pre-development research and testing.  The end result ensures our customers are purchasing products that are at the forefront of GPS tracking technology.  This process is responsible for establishing LandAirSea’s position as the industry leader in GPS Tracking solutions and are the systems of choice regardless of customer type.
 

Software

  The LandAirSea GPS Tracking software provides the user with three methods of evaluating passive tracking data in a user-friendly package that meet the needs of the computer novice as well as the more advanced computer users.

  1. Digital street mapping provides a historical in-motion replay showing when and where the vehicle traveled with animated speedometer, clock with second-hand, compass, etc. 
  2. Google Earth® satellite image display accurately showing the path and stops.
  3. Detailed activity reporting identifying daily summary and individual driving segments.  This includes the starting address, time departed, time en route, arrival addresses, miles traveled, and how long the vehicle stayed at each location.  The stop time interval is also customizable.

The significance of second by second data is critical in providing a comprehensive, fluid replay of any and all historical tracking data.  Any device providing less than second by second recording falls short of these expectations.  As an example, the LandAirSea Passive GPS Tracking devices record 3,600 positions per driving hour whereas competing devices recording every 5 seconds only provide 720 positions per driving hour.

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