GPS Communication Technologies ...

Most commercial tracking systems currently use a one-way satellite connection to receive GPS coordinates from a network of 21 global satellites and transmit them via a land-based network. There are systems that utilize a two-way satellite connection (GPS to the vehicle, transmit data back to the satellite, through the processing center, then on to the customer). However, they are much more costly for most users.

The only affordable solution is one that uses a ground-based network to transmit the data. For this type of system, there are various technologies available. For vehicle tracking systems, the primary technologies used are listed below: (click on names to learn more about each technology)


Microburst, Cellemetry, CDPD, Mobitex, GSM, GPRS, iDEN, CDMA, and ReFLEX

A key issue for purchasers is the imminent shutdown of the CDPD network provided by the carriers AT&T Wireless and Verizon. Any company purchasing a tracking system that uses this technology will be forced to upgrade to new technology within the next two years. In addition, Sprint's recent acquisition of Nextel will force users of Nextel's iDEN network to upgrade to Sprint's CDMA phones and equipment. (click on links for press coverage)

Our high-usage tracking system for vehicles uses the GSM & GPRS networks. The Standard Usage system operates on the Mobitex network and our low-usage system for vehicles and construction equipment uses the Microburst network.