GPS Tracker Data Plans - Choose What's Best For You!
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Why Real Time GPS Trackers Require A Data Plan
- Acquiring Satellite Signals: The GPS tracker first connects to multiple GPS satellites orbiting the Earth, determining its exact location based on latitude and longitude.
- Recording GPS Data: Once the location is pinpointed, the device records additional data, such as speed, direction, and altitude, providing a full picture of the tracker’s movements.
- Transmitting GPS Data: The recorded data is then sent from the device to remote servers via cellular networks. This transmission is what the monthly fee covers, as it involves using cellular towers to send the data securely.
- Processing and Displaying Data: The servers receive and process the data, overlaying it onto digital maps. This allows you to view the real-time location and movement of the tracker.
- Monitoring via App: With the data processed, you can discreetly track the car or asset using a free GPS tracking app on your phone, receiving real-time updates on its location and status.
How Much Data Does A GPS Tracker Use Per Month?
GPS data usage depends on things like the type of GPS device you’re using, how often it updates your location, and the detail of the data it sends. A tracker that updates every few seconds will use more data than one with fewer updates. Devices with real-time traffic info also tend to use more data compared to those with preloaded maps. Knowing these details can help you manage data usage and costs.
Here’s a quick look at typical data usage for different GPS devices:
| GPS Type | Used For | Data Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone GPS | Navigation, Location sharing | 5-10 MB per hour for active navigation. Offline maps use no data. |
| Vehicle GPS | Route guidance, Traffic updates | 1-2 MB per hour with live traffic updates. Offline maps use no data. |
| Wearable GPS | Fitness tracking, Hiking, Golfing | Less than 1 MB per day. Data syncs with smartphone. |
| GPS Trackers | Tracking pets, vehicles, assets | 10-20 MB per month, depending on update frequency. |
Does GPS Use Data?
No, GPS doesn't use cellular data. GPS, or Global Positioning System, works by picking up signals from satellites to figure out where you are. This process doesn't rely on your phone's data plan, so GPS keeps working even if you turn off cellular data or there's no Wi-Fi. Your device simply processes these satellite signals to show your exact location on a map. That’s why GPS can still function in places with poor reception, and many apps let you download maps to use offline, cutting down on data usage.
But things change with real-time GPS car trackers. These trackers need cellular data to send location updates to a server, so you can track your vehicle in real time. While the GPS part doesn't need data, sending those real-time updates to your phone or computer does. That's why many GPS asset trackers come with a subscription plan to cover the cellular data used for tracking.
So, while your phone's GPS might not use data, real-time vehicle trackers do rely on cellular networks to keep you informed about your vehicle's location. Understanding this difference is important, especially if you're thinking about using GPS for real-time tracking.
This article was written by Ryan Horban