How foretrack Fleet Management Software & Vehicle Location Tracking Works
The global positioning system (GPS) consists of 24 operational satellites (with several spares) orbiting the earth at an altitude of approximately 11,000 miles. The satellites orbit the earth twice per day in a pattern which ensures that at least 4 satellites can be viewed from the earth at any position any time of the day. Typically however between 5 and 7 satellites may be in view.
These satellites broadcast signals which are analysed by GPS receivers on the earth. The signals carry information such as the satellite idenitifier, it's position, and an extremely accurate date and time (derived from an on board atomic clock). GPS receivers on the ground use the signal from at least 4 satellites to determine their own position with an accuracy of around 10 to 20 metres.
The foretrack GPS receiver also contains a GSM GPRS device inside (much like that found inside a mobile phone). This allows the receiver to transmit its information from the receiver back to the host server in real time via the internet.
The foretrack GPS receiver also calculates a variety of fleet management information (speed, heading, distance, idling, driver behaviour) which is transmitted along with the vehicle location tracking information.