By Brad Seabourne
GPS navigation systems use a network of geosynchronous satellites that orbit the earth to determine the location of people or objects within a few feet of their location. GPS systems were first used to help the military in target location and in navigation. More recently the cost of GPS hardware has fallen, allowing accurate civilian use; this is also due to the enhancement of signal quality by the military.
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.
There are those, however, who warn of a possible negative effect of using a GPS system, viewing it as constituting an erosion of privacy. Some taxi, truck, and limo drivers are already having their trips scrutinized in this way. On the positive side, GPS technology has proven effectiveness as a means of tracking would-be terrorists, and has been used for some time by federal agents.
GPS has become a consumer tool as well; several new tools allow laymen to use GPS systems to plan hikes, find locations for fishing or camping, and find their way around unfamiliar places. Commercial GPS devices have given rise to “geocaching,” a pastime where participants search for hidden items using their latitude and longitude coordinates.
GPS tracking systems have also allowed the development of a new automotive add-on, the in dash GPS receiver allowing consumers to request a location and have the device display or speak directions to the driver, making the paper map obsolete. These devices are already increasing in complexity and adding new features including hotel and restaurant information.
Usage of GPS technology is very likely to become more prevalent as the price of the devices continues to decrease. The ubiquity of GPS in today’s world may render older technologies such as paper maps, obsolete. GPS systems may also serve as a springboard for future technological developments, such as property theft deterrence, by being able to track at all times all of one’s possessions.
About the Author:
Brad Seabourne writes articles about GPS vehicle tracking systems and GPS tracking devices.
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