What is GPS | How GPS Location Tracker works | GPS Full Form

What can be the solution through which we keep track of the kids and whatever they do? What can be the mechanism through which we can closely watch what our kid (infant, baby, grown-up, or teenage) is going through when out of our sight? Basically, you need a gadget that keeps you in control of the situation and alerts you whenever your kid is in any precarious situation. 

The solution lies in the gadget called “Kids GPS Location Tracker” or a “child tracker” or simply the “location tracker”. It is a wonderful thing that a parent can ask for, which allows you to be in touch with your kid even from a remote place. Although these devices are mostly used for tracking the location of the kids by the parents, their uses go beyond that too.

These location trackers can be used to track the location of mentally ill patients, elders, people who forget their way back home, etc. It is the easiest and one of the best methods by which your child is constantly under your watch. These child location trackers allow you to take control of the situation and assure the safety of your child to your satisfaction.

What actually is the “GPS tracking” system?

The term “GPS” stands for “Global Positioning System”. It is a complete system that works in tandem with other devices to provide an idea regarding the location of the subject. The Global Positioning System is a sort of navigation system that uses satellites, a device and a ground control that receives the signals from the satellites.

So, there are three devices involved in this entire navigation system. These three systems provide data regarding the location of the subject. The GPS system uses the signals being sent from the satellite, like the location, velocity and elevation of the subject. It calculates the change in location, velocity and time synchronization of the signals that emanate from the satellites.

Current GPS systems used around the world.

Currently, there are two satellite systems that are fully functional globally. One is the NAVSTAR GPS (Navigation Signal Timing and Ranging) system, which is owned by the US. It consists of 32 satellites and is one of the most widely used systems in the world. Another one is GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), which is from Russia. This system consists of 24 satellites, of which three more are spares or for testing purposes.

GPS is also known as Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), which actually means that it is a satellite navigation system with global coverage. Earlier, the technology was used by the US military only since 1983, but till 2000, the same was provided for civil use and that too, free of charge.

This system (GNSS) employs a wide range of satellites that use microwave signals that get transmitted to GPS devices. This gives information regarding the location, speed, time and direction of the subject.

In today’s world, modern receivers mostly rely on both the US NAVSTAR and the Russian GLONASS for more accurate and reliable data for the smooth functioning of the GPS system. 

How does the basic GPS location tracker system work?

The entire GPS satellite system consists of twenty-four (24) satellites. However, the total number of available satellites orbiting the Earth is thirty-two (32) within the entire GPS system. Of these, twenty-four (24) satellites form the core satellites and the rest of eight (08) satellites serve as the emergency ones in case of any damage to any satellite(s) while orbiting.  These satellites travel in six earth-centric orbital planes, each having four satellites. The GPS satellite system consists of at least four satellites that are within the range of the user. However, more satellites mean more accurate data and hence the accuracy in detecting the location.

However, at least four satellites are needed for this system to function smoothly and properly. In fact, only three areas are needed to procure data regarding the location. However, a fourth one is added to validate the information of the first three satellites. Also, the fourth satellite provides us with the fourth dimension in order to calculate the altitude of the device or the subject.

These satellites, powered by solar energy, orbit the earth 20,000 km above its surface at a speed of 8,700 km twice a day. While travelling, these satellites emit signals regularly towards the control centers on the earth.

This entire system of GPS has multiple tracking stations or control centres that are located in different parts of the globe. The job of these location tracker stations is to decipher the signals being sent by the satellites. The satellites send the signals while in continuous motion, orbiting around the Earth. The users of GPS systems have receivers for these signals, which simply help in converting these satellite signals for a precise idea of position, velocity and time.

The actual working mechanism of the GPS location tracker system

The GPS location tracker system works on a mechanism known as ‘Trilateration’. We can say that it is the updated version of ‘Triangulation’, which actually uses the measurement of angles for its calculations. But trilateration collects the data in the form of signals from the satellites and calculates the location, velocity and elevation. This data is sent to the locations that receive and assess the location for tracking purposes.

The satellites, while orbiting the earth, send signals to the receiver or the GPS device located on the earth. When the satellite sends the microwave signal, the GPS device picks up the signal and interprets its data to calculate the distance from the satellite.

However, only getting the distance of the satellite from the signal received does not provide the precise location. It is still vague and needs data from other satellites to add to the information.

2-D trilateration system

Now, each satellite sends a unique signal to the GPS device and each satellite orbits the Earth twice. Any signal sent to the GPS device may give information about the distance, but the location can be anywhere on that sphere of the circle.

This sphere or circle can be formed by considering the distance as the radius of that sphere. Since the satellite does not give information about the angles, the location of that GPS device can be anywhere on that circle.

Now, taking the other unique signal from another satellite can allow us to draw another sphere with the usual distance considered as the radius of this sphere. Now the intersection of these two circles will provide us with two narrowed-down possible locations of the GPS device.

Again, taking the signal from a third satellite will provide us with a third circle or sphere, with that distance serving as the radius. Now we have three intersecting circles and the location can be narrowed down in between the intersections of these three circles. This is called “2-D trilateration” since it furnishes us with two-dimensional data.

3-D trilateration system

However, the data from the fourth satellite provides us with deeper insight and gives us an accurate assessment of the location since it allows us to calculate the elevation and altitude from its unique signal. Now, besides the longitude and latitude parameters provided by the satellite, another dimension of altitude is also added to this by the fourth satellite.

The point of intersection of three spheres will create two points of intersection and the point that is nearest to earth is chosen. This is known as “3-D trilateration” since it guides us with an additional dimension of altitude besides the longitude and the latitude. With the movement of the device from time to time, the radius changes, and therefore, new spheres are created continuously. This gives rise to a new position in real time.

Any additional data from another satellite(s) goes on to provide the more accurate location of the GPS device. It is normal for GPS devices to track from four to seven satellites simultaneously to get the signals in order to calculate the precise locations. Therefore, both the 2-D and 3-D trilaterations are used in the location-tracking mechanism of GPS devices. This is the basic working model of the GPS location tracker system.

Kids GPS location tracker and types of location trackers available in India

There are a number of Kids GPS Location Tracker(s) available in the market and a little confusing as to what to choose. We have categorized them and are defining some categories under which most of the kid’s location trackers fall. Some of the few important categories of child location tracker devices are explained below.

Magnetic GPS location tracker system

This is a type of Kids GPS Location Tracker that has small magnets inside that get attached to the surface of the vehicle or anything worth attaching. For tracking, working SIM cards are to be inserted into the device to track the location in real-time over the internet. The batteries of the device are rechargeable.

How it works

Different coded messages (like 1234, 5253, 5555, 6666, etc.,) can be sent to the device to get the desired work done. It means specific codes are sent to the device from the mobile phone. Through these, we can start the recording, stop the recording and receive the location via Google Maps. One can even listen to the voice near the tracker to have a better idea of what is going on around the surroundings.

How it helps

• A real-time location tracking of the kid is possible.
• Can attach this magnetic location tracker to the metallic surface of the bag, vehicle, etc.
• Useful when the kid goes out of the house for picnics, get-togethers, out-of-town visits, etc.
• Facility to allow the recording/ hearing of the conversation without any noise.
• This location tracker helps in tracking the kids when they are far away from their parents.
• Since GPS technology is used, one can track the kid anywhere and stay connected.

Key chain type Bluetooth kids GPS location tracker

This Kids GPS Location Tracker can be attached to any chain or belt like a key chain. Once attached, it has to be long-pressed to set into the ON position. It works on the battery inside which is disposable and convenient to operate. However, it uses Bluetooth technology for its operations.

How it works

This Bluetooth Key chain tracker connects with the mobile phone through Bluetooth. The mobile phone can use the prescribed app to operate through it. This app when activated can record the location on the map when it is disconnected. This is where you can track down the device.

In case of any disconnection, both the key chain location tracker and the mobile phone will beep, to raise the alarm and warn the parent. This location tracker can be attached anywhere conveniently such as with keys, wallets, bags, belts, hooks, etc.

How it helps

• Although a multipurpose utility device, it can also be conveniently used to track small kids.
• Helpful to find any baby or small kid who hides behind the bed, behind curtains or in any nooks or corners.
• This location tracker device guides our way through, in case a small baby doesn’t make a cry or noise when stuck anywhere.
• The range of this type of location tracker is usually from 10 to 100 ft.
• Usually helpful in tracking the kids inside the home due to its short range.

Wrist-watch type GPS location tracker

As the name suggests, this kid’s GPS Location tracker is in the shape of a wristwatch and is worn on the wrist. The GPS location tracker or receiver system is integrated into the watch, which needs to be connected to the mobile phone, through which the tracking is done. It can be used as a cell phone for two-way communication with ease.

How does this kids GPS Location tracker work

A GSM sim has to be installed into this kid’s GPS location tracker with 2g data enabled on it. An app has to be downloaded into the parent’s mobile phone and the code which is shown on the watch has to be scanned. Once the registration process is complete, the tracking of the kid becomes easy

How it helps

• Parents can set the limit of the geographic area; it will raise an alarm whenever the kid goes outside the area.
• Whenever the child moves out of the area limit set by the guardian, it sends an alarm on the mobile.
• In case of an emergency, the kid can long press the SOS button, which will send the alert SMS to the parent’s mobile.
• Helpful when the kid is alone outside like playing in the park, at some friend’s place, picnic, etc.
• Parents can track the location of their kid anytime or anywhere in real-time through this kid’s GPS location tracker wristwatch.

Kids mobile phone type GPS location tracker

This type of Kid’s GPS Location Tracker usually resembles a normal mobile phone. Although, much smaller in size than any normal mobile phone, it has all the features of a GPS location tracker. This Mobile Phone type Kids GPS Location Tracker can also be set to send the kid’s location report from time to time. It just needs some small adjustments in the phone. It also has a voice monitoring function that allows one to track the voice of the kid too.

How this kids location tracker works

A GSM sim is inserted into the mobile location tracker device to get it activated. The device can make outgoing calls to certain preset numbers only. Also, incoming calls are restricted to certain numbers only to avoid any unnecessary and stranger calls on this number. There is no need for internet access and the setting can’t be tampered with from outside.

Again for security features, there is no number-calling keypad given. There is an emergency SOS number that the kid can call on, in case of any emergency. During the SOS call, this mobile phone type tracker also sends out a text message revealing its location.

How it helps

• These calls are available for prefixed numbers only so that the interaction with strangers is null.
• AN SOS number is provided so that the kid can easily press the button and talk to the guardian. No chance of any outside calls, as there is a restricted phone calling feature present in this mobile tracker.
• No need for an internet or SMS service in order to contact the guardian.
• This kid’s GPS location tracker is helpful when the child is playing in the park or at a friend’s party place.
• It helps parents who can’t accompany them everywhere or when the child is alone in the marketplace.
• The voice monitoring feature allows the parents to connect to the kid immediately.
• A smaller size than a normal phone makes this mobile tracker easy to carry.
• The battery backup of this mobile tracker is good and may last for one or even two days.

Wireless Tag type Bluetooth location tracker

This type of Kids GPS Location Tracker uses tags that can be attached to the baby who we want to be tracked. Here, we can use this type of tracker to find the location of the kid as well. The small tag is attached to the kid’s clothes or put into his or her pocket. It is very small and fits easily into any pocket type. This kind of asset tracker or Kids GPS Location Tracker uses Bluetooth technology in tracking down the location precisely.

How this location tracker works

A particular app has to be downloaded from the Google store on the mobile phone. Then the device needs to be synchronized with the mobile phone through Bluetooth. The device gets connected to the mobile phone after the necessary permissions from the guardian’s side. The guardian gets the alerts on the mobile phone itself.

If this tag type Kids GPS Location Tracker gets far away from the prescribed distance from the mobile phone, the beeper starts to ring. In fact, the beeper rings continuously both on the device and the mobile. Here if the tag is attached to any small baby, and in case he or she moves beyond the area set by the parent, they will get an alert.

How it helps

• Parents can use this Bluetooth device tag to know the whereabouts of their baby or toddler.
• Since the tag is small and lightweight, the kid doesn’t feel uncomfortable while wearing it.
• One can easily continue to do the normal household chores and be assured while the baby plays all alone.
• Guardians can get the live location of their kids on their mobile phones.

Smart-watch type kids GPS location tracker

This type of Kids GPS Location Tracker comes in the shape of a watch as the name suggests. But it is more than just a watch. It has much more features than the normal wristwatch tracker. It has a more clear voice, more detailed positioning and is cold-resistant.

This Kids GPS Location Tracker Smartwatch tracker has video calling, chatting, voice message, group chat and picture-taking options. Once the geographic location limit is set for the kid, it will send an alarm in case that boundary is crossed by the kid.

It also has a touch screen for the convenience of kids with an emergency SOS number facility. Besides, the parents can control, allow or restrict the numbers for calling in the contact list. It definitely has more features than the normal GPS watch-type location tracker.

How it works

A GSM sim having a 2G connection has to be inserted into the device for it to function. A mobile app has to be downloaded into the mobile and the code shown in the watch has to be scanned. Some steps for registration have to be completed for this Smartwatch Kids GPS Location Tracker to be ready. It can easily track, interact and guide the child through this smartwatch GPS location tracker.

How it helps

• It is a water-resistant smartwatch and therefore no worries regarding children getting wet in rains and watching not working.
• Has absolute parental control and regarding whom the kid can call and who can call the kid.
• This smartwatch-type kid GPS Location Tracker has many features like video calling, chatting, picture taking, SMS, etc.
• Touch screen options are available for the kids, so it becomes easier for small kids to operate.
• An SOS number is provided for the kid to call in emergency situations.
• Extremely helpful to the kids in almost all outdoor situations like tours, picnics and going to or coming from school.

Bracelet or wristband type GPS location tracker

This type of Kids GPS Location Tracker comes in the shape of a small band or bracelet. It is worn on the wrist of the kid. Although one can use it in many ways like wearing this kid tracker on the neck or on the ankles. These are skin-friendly and lightweight tracking devices that help in keeping track of the kid.

How it works

It has a zipper-lock design that holds tightly onto the wrist of the kid. Having a lock system, the kid can’t open it easily if he or she tries to. A 2G network sim is inserted into this type of Kids GPS Location Tracker.

How it helps

• Waterproof and washable device bracelet.
• Adjustable wristband as per the ease of the kid.
• Skin-friendly tacker device for more comfort of the kid.