Article Resources

A network of orbiting geosynchronous satellites enable a GPS tracking system to pinpoint the location of a range of objects and people, with accuracy to within a few feet. As with many technological developments, GPS tracking was first used by the military to find targets and to navigate. Recently, the cost of GPS systems has decreased significantly, and the military has suspended degradations to the signals, thereby making GPS tracking systems available for civilians to utilize.

GPS vehicle tracking systems have been invaluable to companies who need to keep track of their vehicle fleets, while simultaneously allowing their drivers to use the devices to make deliveries more efficiently, and allowing estimation of time of arrival. GPS vehicle tracking systems have also allowed delivery companies to determine the most efficient route for their drivers to take.

One of the negatives that has come about more recently is invasion of privacy. As these devices are used more and more frequently in our lives, they will continue to present these challenges. Truck drivers were among the first to be tracked and their movements are now analyzed as well. Spies have long known that GPS tracking can be very effective in tracking the movement of individuals.

GPS has also made significant inroads into the consumer market, allowing individuals to use GPS to lay out waypoints for hikes, set locations for camping or fishing, and allow individuals to navigate in unfamiliar territory. A new form of recreation called "geocaching" has also developed, involving a hide-and-seek game involving a container and a set of latitude and longitude coordinates.

A new and highly desirable automobile add-on is the GPS tracking system. Located in the dashboard, the GPS receiver eliminates the awkwardness of trying to read a map while driving by processing a driver's location request and giving spoken or visual directions. Other useful features are now being added to these devices, such as information on restaurants and hotels.

As the cost of GPS tracking systems decreases, it is predictable that their use will only increase. These systems are quite adaptable, and are sure to take the place of old-fashioned maps and guidebooks. We may one day even use such a system to keep track of our belongings, so that we need no longer worry that they will be lost or stolen.

Satellites allow GPS units to locate and track objects and people. GPS was first used by the United States military for targeting and navigation. Accuracy of the GPS signal for the general public has improved since the military stopped degrading the signal available to civilians. Delivery companies make widespread use of GPS vehicle tracking systems for scheduling and route efficiency. In private automobiles, GPS tracking systems simplify navigation. Outdoor enthusiasts have made GPS devices common in recreational pursuits. "Geocaching" is a hobby that uses a GPS tracking device to find hidden treasures. As prices drop, the use of the GPS system will continue to render older methods of navigation obsolete.