A GPS tracker, or GPS tracking unit, is a navigation device that uses satellite navigation to determine its movement and determine its geographic location. GPS trackers connect to a series of satellites to determine location using a process called trilateration, which uses the position of three or more satellites from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) network and its distance from them to determine latitude, longitude, elevation, and time. GPS tracking is the surveillance of location through the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS) to track the location of an entity or object remotely.
GPS trackers are commonly used in various applications, including:
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Vehicle tracking: GPS trackers are used to monitor the activity of vehicles, especially in the event of a vehicle being used by a friend or family member. Most 21st-century GPS trackers provide data "push" technology, enabling sophisticated GPS tracking in business environments, specifically organizations that employ a mobile workforce, such as a commercial fleet.
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Espionage/surveillance: GPS trackers can be used to track the movements of a person or vehicle.
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GPS personal tracking: GPS personal tracking devices are used in the care of the elderly and vulnerable, and can be used to track small children who may get into danger. Some devices can send text alerts to carers if the wearer moves into an unexpected place. Some devices allow users to call for assistance, and optionally allow designated carers to locate the users position, typically within five to ten meters.
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Adventure sports: GPS tracking devices are used in adventure sports such as running, biking, and hiking, giving users input on distance traveled, their speed, or where they are in the wilderness.
GPS trackers are widely used in science and have now become sufficiently low-cost so that almost anyone can own a GPS and many do in a smartphone, tablet, or GPS navigation device. GPS tracking is invaluable for police, firefighters, military personnel, and large courier businesses. Many of these use automatic vehicle locator (AVL) systems.
