The GPS Theory: How Does it Really Work?
Incredible invention of GPS had added to convenience of traveling for people all over the world. Many people are smitten by GPS. GPS refers to Global Positioning System and at present has around 27 satellites orbiting our planet. Of all these satellites, 24 are constantly receiving and sending information. The rest three are used as a backup, which can be used in case one of 24 fails.
The basic idea behind the working of a GPS is very simple. With GPS enabled receivers, one can send signals that are picked by four or more satellites and using received information, location is determined. This technology is undoubtedly beneficial for people who travel to different places. Where maps have become outdated and no distinguishable landmarks are found, GPS is the best technology to use. For making the use of GPS receivers elaborate, combine them with the detailed maps. All these maps work as coordinates related to places. Therefore, whenever GPS navigation finds coordinates of existing location and it is able to tell you where you are in context with the surroundings. GPS is necessary if you are traveling or settling in new city.
If you are wondering how GPS works, the satellite supporting GPS receiver takes two circles around earth in day while transmitting the information to us. GPS receiver takes the information and helps the users find the exact location. For calculating the position of users, GPS receiver needs to be locked in with atleast three satellites for finding two-dimensional and four satellites for finding three-dimensional position of users. After the user has found out the current location, satellite also offers information regarding track, speed, sunrise as well sunset time, distance to the destination and a lot more for making it easy for the traveler.
Each satellite moves constantly on its orbit, completing two rounds in less than a day's time. GPS satellites are powered with the help of solar energy with backup batteries onboard that lets them run smoothly in case of solar eclipse. Each of this GPS satellite has little rocket boosters that allows them to move in the determined path. Signals that are part of GPS are important and one needs to have an understanding of them. GPS satellites usually transmit low power signal that travel with the line of sight, which means that they can pass through glass, plastic, clouds but not any of the solid objects like mountains and buildings.
Even with positive benefits of the GPS navigation system, some inaccuracies can occur. These can be in the form of signal mutipath, receiver's clock errors, troposphere and ionosphere delays, satellite shading and geometry, orbital errors, satellite signal degradation. Overall GPS is a very useful and beneficial technology for its users. What better than spotting your location without wasting any time? GPS is one technology on which you can really rely for finding exact position anywhere in the world. The best part is that you can buy different models of GPS receivers so that you can enjoy the desired results without burning a hole in your pocket.
Sanjeev Walia is an executive working for SatNav, pioneers of India, first
car GPS navigation system. SatNav has launched a
locator software that enables us to locate people important to us. It is in Beta Testing stage right now.
