How does a GPS tracker work on a car?


How Does a Vehicle Tracking Device Work? GPS tracking devices send special satellite signals that are processed by a receiver. These GPS receivers track the exact location of the GPS device as well as compute their time and the velocity they are traveling.

How far can a GPS tracker work?

Typically, the information provided by GPS trackers is accurate to within three meters. However, any obstruction on the line of sight between the device and the sky can affect the accuracy of the location data it transmits, such as tall buildings, bridges, tunnels, or dense forests.

Does a GPS tracker work when the car is off?

Yes! Your GPS tracker can work when the car is turned off. This is because GPS tracking devices possess their own built-in-power, allowing them to operate without needing to be connected.

Do GPS trackers need Internet?

GPS obtains information from satellites which is why the internet is not required for collecting and storing location data. The internet is only needed in order to access the data remotely and GPS trackers have a SIM card within them to enable connection.

How long does a battery last in a GPS tracker?

How long can a GPS tracker battery last? The battery life of the GPS tracker varies from one to another. But on average, a GPS device can also last up to 6-12 months without active tracking.

What can block a GPS tracker?

So can a GPS tracker be blocked? Yes, the GPS signals can be blocked by wet trees, aluminum foil, plastic containers, or even a tin box filled with thick materials can block GPS signals.

Do GPS trackers work everywhere?

Satellite-based GPS tracking units will operate anywhere on the globe using satellite technology such as GlobalStar or Iridium.

Do GPS trackers work without cell service?

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.

Do I need a SIM card for a GPS tracker?

Here's the short answer. If you want to send GPS location from one device to another (from your GPS tracker to your phone, for example), you'll need a SIM card so that the two can “communicate”. The data gets sent by SMS from your tracker to your phone, all thanks to its SIM card.

Can SIM card be tracked?

SIM Card Tracking SIM cards connect to nearby signal towers for you to receive calls and send SMS texts, but that signal can be used to find out your location. Cybercriminals can also hack your SIM card without ever physically accessing your phone.

Can GPS tracker be turned off?

Once a GPS tracking device is located, it can be disabled. Beyond simply removing the battery, it is possible to stop the GPS signal. It's important to remove the device completely and dispose of it so it does not continue transmitting your location.

Does GPS drain car battery?

Contrary to common belief, a car GPS tracker does not drain the battery of your vehicle. However, most people think that if their car battery is rapidly depleting, it is unlikely that the car tracker is to blame. The truth is that the GPS tracker should be the very last thing on your mind.

Do GPS trackers show the exact location?

These GPS receivers track the exact location of the GPS device as well as compute their time and the velocity they are traveling. These positions can also be computed and represented in three-dimensional views using four types of GPS satellite signals. GPS systems consist of three segments: space, control, and user.

What is the disadvantage of GPS tracker?

Disadvantages of worldwide Positioning System : GPS chip is hungry for power which drains battery in 8 to 12 hours. this needs replacement or recharge of battery quite frequently. GPS doesn't penetrate solid walls or structures. it's also suffering from large constructions or structures.

Can a cell phone detect a GPS tracker?

Is there an app that can detect a GPS tracker? Yes, there are many apps that can detect if a GPS tracker has been installed on your cell phone. If you have an Android phone you can download Certo Mobile Security for free from the Play Store and quickly scan your phone for GPS tracking apps and other malware.

How do I know if my car has a GPS tracker?

If you don't notice anything that obvious, use your flashlight and mirror to check under the seats, under and behind the dash, inside and behind the glove compartment, and in the center console. Trackers can also be hidden in seat pockets, between seats, behind sun visors, and elsewhere.

What is the difference between GPS and tracker?

The GPS navigation will navigate you to your desired point. No matter where you live on the globe, GPS navigation will work. If you want to reach a destination but you don't know how to get there then GPS navigation can take you to your destination. The GPS tracker will simply track your current location or movements.

Do GPS trackers give exact location?

GPS satellites broadcast their signals in space with a certain accuracy, but what you receive depends on additional factors, including satellite geometry, signal blockage, atmospheric conditions, and receiver design features/quality. For example, GPS-enabled smartphones are typically accurate to within a 4.9 m (16 ft.)

What does a tracker look like in a car?

It will typically look like a small box with a magnetic side. It may or may not have an antenna or a light on it. It will be small, usually three to four inches long, two inches wide and an inch or so thick. Be sure you have a flashlight for peeking into dark spaces in your car.

Can car thieves disable tracker?

Whilst it can be disconcerting to think of your vehicle being stolen, it's worth noting that most thieves won't try and block the signal. If they do manage to steal it, they will often keep it secured somewhere for 2-3 days to see if it's detected by the authorities and if not, they'll assume there's no tracker anyway.

Can a car tracker be hacked?

As GPS trackers' sole function is to process information emitted from GPS satellites, there is no outbound signal to be hacked, no phone call which can be infiltrated, or IP address that can be followed.

How accurate are car trackers?

Well, the vast majority of vehicle trackers can pinpoint the location of a car or van to a three-metre radius. That's impressive enough, though some systems are even more accurate and can track a vehicle to within a one-metre radius. Yes, GPS vehicle tracking is about as accurate as it's possible to get.

What is inside a GPS tracker?

Inside a GPS tracker is a small electronic silicon chip—about the size of a fingernail. The chip requires a source of power like a battery to receive signals, process the data, and send out the location information. That's why mobile phones, GPS watches, and tracker devices can perform these services.

Do GPS trackers need battery?

Like hardwired systems, Plug and Play GPS trackers get their power from your vehicle's electrical system, so they don't require batteries either.

How much data do I need for GPS tracker?

How much does it cost to run a GPS tracker?

It varies, but you can expect to pay on average $25 to $45 per vehicle, per month, for GPS fleet tracking. Is GPS Fleet Tracking Worth the Investment?