GPS is used for various land, sea, and air applications. The control segment includes master and backup control stations, dedicated ground antennas, and worldwide monitor stations.

Surveyors, farmers, pilots, and boat captains use GPS to prepare accurate surveys, maps, and precise time measurements. GPS technology is also embedded in various consumer electronics and automotive systems.

Vehicle Tracking

One of the most common uses of GPS involves tracking vehicles and assets. Many trucking companies implement telematics systems to track driver performance and safety, locate equipment and optimize routes. Construction and off-road vehicle manufacturers also use GPS to improve asset management and increase ROI.

Other vehicle owners benefit from GPS by reducing fuel usage and labor costs. Keeping tabs on driver behavior, including speeding and excessive idling, is also a great way to maintain accountability and reduce the incidence of time theft.

Even parents can keep tabs on teen drivers with GPS systems installed in their cars. These devices provide real-time information on a child’s location and show when they violate speed limits or take unnecessary detours. Some also have electronic compass functionality to assist with navigation in the wilderness. This can be particularly useful if a group of hikers becomes separated.

Mapping and Surveying

Surveyors and mapping professionals use GPS systems to make their work more productive, safer, and accessible. They also benefit from the technology’s advanced capabilities, including improved visualization and communication with clients and stakeholders.

Most GPS units work by receiving coded radio signals from satellites orbiting Earth. Check some GPS technologies, and take advantage of discounted offers like Garmin coupons. These devices can provide accurate location data within three meters, depending on their type. They can also determine a user’s position based on the trilateration of three or more satellite signals.

Mapping-grade GPS units come with maps built-in or can be downloaded and added to the device. They can also connect to GIS (geographic information system) software to collect attribute data and create maps. They also allow for more precise navigation by displaying routes and shortcuts to the destination. Moreover, they can alert the user of nearby emergencies by calling pre-programmed emergency numbers. Some devices can pair with digital cameras and rangefinders for additional tracking features.

Elderly Care

Many people use GPS to keep tabs on elderly family members. They risk wandering away and losing their way home and can get lost in unfamiliar areas. The tracking system lets caregivers know where they are at all times and is also helpful for monitoring children, especially those with mental or behavioral disorders. Some of these devices even have an emergency button that can be pressed when someone needs help.

Tech geeks often utilize GPS when playing treasure hunt with friends and post the maps on the Web for everyone to see. The technology is also used in mining to track the location of minerals in various layers of the Earth’s surface. It is also widely used in the aviation industry, as almost all aircraft rely on it to navigate and coordinate their flights.

Treasure Hunting

There are several ways to have fun using GPS. One way is geocaching, an outdoor treasure hunt that combines orienteering and a sense of adventure with a high-tech twist. Participants use GPS units to locate containers containing trinkets and logbooks hidden on public or private land. The site where this game is played is called the National Spatial Reference System.

According to U.S. Patent No. 5,942,969, clues may be transmitted to players via pagers to verify their general location. The game organizers keep a list of these pager-base stations, and based on their site, new clues are only transmitted to the players who have reached the correct general area.

Another way to have fun with GPS is to explore old farmhouses, ghost towns, or other historical areas, looking for relics of the past. However, if you plan on taking up this hobby, understand that there are laws governing what can be found on public property, so make sure to check with your local authorities before heading out with your metal detector.

Mining

The global positioning system (GPS) is a navigation and location technology that utilizes satellites to provide accurate real-time data. GPS works through a constellation of 31 satellites that orbit the Earth in a precise trajectory and transmit microwave signals sensed by pre-set receivers. Each satellite contains atomic clocks synchronized with ground-bound clocks to create the most accurate timing information.

Underground mining presents unique challenges, but GPS technology is helping to meet these demands. Using the exact location and tracking standards above ground, the latest generation of underground GPS trackers allows miners to navigate safely and efficiently.

GPS is commonly used in the mining industry for vehicle tracking systems. These systems pair with fleet management software to better track equipment locations. Mining vehicles like loaders, bulldozers, and graders are equipped with these systems to improve efficiency and productivity across all facets of the operation.

Hunting and Fishing

Using GPS to locate wildlife is an essential aspect of hunting and fishing. This can help conservation efforts by reducing species populations that may otherwise go extinct. However, overfishing and hunting can also deplete species’ population levels.

Having a GPS unit that can track trails and waypoints helps hunters stay on the right path while hiking to their hunting spot. Having tracks visible on the device is especially helpful for hunters who walk to their blinds in the dark.

A GPS can also be helpful to those who are into geocaching. This popular outdoor activity is similar to a scavenger hunt by providing the user with the location of hidden treasures worldwide. Several GPS units and software can be used for this purpose.

This device combines a handheld GPS with a satellite messenger to allow users to communicate via text message and send an SOS signal for rescue assistance. It is popular among big game hunters, hikers, and travelers in remote areas without cell service.