Category:Navigation

Brief Summary

Global positioning system also known as GPS is a technology that utilizes radio signals produced by satellites. Since a mobile phone already works like a two-way radio when communicating with cell towers, the GPS capability simply extends the radio signal reach to space satellites. [1] Smartphones already have GPS resources that authorize Emergency Response Teams to locate its location through a 911call.

GPS is based on a Java-based platform that has permission to the service provider’s database. Location tracking and giving directions to and from destinations are some of the more common uses for this technology. [1] The device receive can be included inside the phone or accessed through wireless (i.e. Bluetooth) connection. In order for the navigation-related information to be transmitted, users must have a calling plan that supports the transmission of maps and supporting data. [1]

How it works

The GPS navigational systems are supported by a network of 27 satellites. At any given time, a minimum of four satellites signals is accessible to any one point on the Earth. [2] Since the cell phone mimics a two way radio, it transmits radio waves to the satellites. A process referred to trilateration is able to pinpoint the exact location of the mobile phone. Trilateration is a series of three satellites simultaneously attempting to pinpoint the mobile’s phone location. A fourth satellite receives data from the previous three satellites and determines the match.

Distance calculations are made on how long it takes the radio signals to travel back and forth between the receiver (mobile phone) and satellite. [2] The mapping capabilities are displayed on the phone’s screen via the cellular provider’s database. [2]

In order for a GPS device to work, there must be a clear line of sight between the receiver (mobile phone) and the sky. [3] There are occasions when this is not possible; therefore, the mobile phone would not receive signal information or will transmit and receive inaccurate signal information to and from the satellites. Using your mobile phone inside a building, beneath trees, or nearby a tall building may cause these problems to occur. [3]

Enhanced technology has allowed for assisted GPS. Assisted GPS leverages the cellular network through the use of cell towers. These servers are able to process incoming data at much higher rates than GPS receivers, so information is transmitted quicker, and is typically more accurate than what a mobile phone can relay on its own. [3]