How does a GPS tracking system for cars work?


A GPS vehicle tracking system relies on a transmitter inside a vehicle's navigation device, which sends out a signal that is received by satellites in space. Through this, GPS tracking can pinpoint the exact location of a vehicle, down to its latitude, longitude, direction and speed.

How does a GPS tracker work on a car?

It uses Global Positioning Systems (GPS satellites) to know the vehicle or equipment's location at all times. The information that is gathered from the vehicle is then stored on the device inside. The data is then transmitted by using a wireless, or cellular network through providers like AT&T and Verizon.

Does a GPS tracker work when the car is off?

Yes, GPS can work when your car is off.

How does a car GPS work without internet?

Yes, GPS works because it is completely independent of any WiFi or Cellular data connection. A GPS is just a radio that receives location data from satellites, so its radio is separate from any WiFi, Cellular, or Bluetooth radio. Pre-loaded maps need no internet connection to work.

How far can a GPS tracker work?

Thanks to the global nature of GPS satellites, you can use GPS devices anywhere around the world, as long as you have a signal. This means that there are no range limitations, and GPS trackers can track down items that are far away or even on the other side of the planet.

Can GPS tracker work without Internet?

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 you 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 a tracker work without power?

Yes! The OBD GPS tracker (plug-in tracker) and hardwired GPS can function without a battery. This is because a vehicle generates the electricity from the operating engine and vehicle battery to power the tracker without needing external sources of power.

Do GPS trackers work everywhere?

These tracking devices are capable of transmitting location data as long as cellular coverage is present. However, their distance from the cellular sites will affect the accuracy of the data given. Satellite-based GPS trackers offer the most range among all device types.

Is car GPS connected to internet?

Yes, car trackers can work without the internet. GPS does not use WIFI or internet data, rather signals from satellites to track your vehicle's location. However, not all the functions of your vehicle tracker will work without access to the internet.

Can GPS work without satellite?

At a minimum, your GPS receiver needs three satellite signals (aka “fixes”) to determine your position, which is called trilateration. With one signal, you can be anywhere within the surface of the sphere.

How much data does a GPS tracker use?

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.

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.

Does GPS tracking use a lot of battery?

Conclusion. Enabling GPS uses zero extra power except when location services are actually being used. You'll use more power turning it on and off than just leaving it on all the time. There is no point in keeping your GPS on if you aren't using any app that utilizes it.

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 does a tracker stop a car?

After that, when the stolen vehicle speed inevitably goes lower than the preconfigured threshold speed, the GPS tracker will disable speed pulsing and will activate DOUT permanently. So, the vehicle will be gradually and safely decelerated and stopped by controlling the fuel pump of the car.

Can I use my phone as a GPS without cell service?

Does GPS Work Without Data? Thankfully, you can actually use a GPS without having any connection to the internet. This applies to both Android and IOS devices, and it can do this for different reasons.

What is needed for GPS tracking?

Basic requirements You need a GPS device for each object you want to track, a GPS device receives position information from GPS satellites and forwards it to GPS-server. There are also vehicle mounted GPS devices, asset tracking devices and personal tracking devices that include both GPS and a mobile data module.

What are the different types of GPS trackers?

There are four types of GPS trackers: battery-operated, hardwired, plug-in, and satellite-operated.

Does tracker 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.

How long do vehicle trackers last?

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 does a tracker look like on your 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.

What is the difference between GPS and tracker?

GPS tracking, which is utilizing satellite information to record one's course of travel is a very different aspect that GPS navigation, which is using satellite information to determine a course of direction.

Can a GPS tracker be removed?

If you want to remove a hardwired GPS tracker from a car, the best option is to ask your local auto repair mechanic to help you out. They will ensure that the tracker is uninstalled properly and is viable for further use.