GPS tracking technology encompasses two main components: GPS tracking software and GPS trackers. While these elements work together to provide comprehensive fleet management solutions, they serve distinct purposes and offer unique features. In this article, we will explore the key differences between GPS trackers and GPS tracking software.
What is the Difference Between GPS Tracking Software and GPS Trackers?
GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking software and GPS trackers are both widely used in fleet management, but they serve different purposes and work in different ways. The basic difference between the two is that a GPS tracker is a physical device, while GPS tracking software is a cloud-based program.
GPS Trackers
GPS trackers are small supported GPS hardware
usually attached to vehicles. They have a built-in receiver that works by receiving signals from a network of orbiting satellites. The precise location, speed, and direction of the vehicle are then determined based on these signals.
The GPS tracker just gathers raw data without giving it any detailed meaning. GPS trackers come in various forms, ranging from compact, battery-powered units to more sophisticated, hardwired devices integrated into a vehicle's electrical system.
A delivery company installs GPS trackers in their fleet of delivery vans to monitor their movements throughout the city. These trackers continuously transmit location data to the company's tracking software, enabling real-time visibility of the vehicles' whereabouts.
GPS Tracking Software
On the other hand, GPS tracking software is a cloud-based program used to analyze and display the data gathered by the GPS tracker.
GPS tracking devices are typically hosted on a cloud-based server or installed on a computer or mobile device, providing a user-friendly interface for fleet managers and dispatchers to monitor and manage their assets.
It calculates the vehicle's location based on the received data and presents it in an easy-to-understand way, such as on a d gital map. Besides showing where the vehicle is at a particular moment, the GPS tracking software can also track the historical routes, the pace of movement, stoppage time, distance traveled, and fuel consumption.
A transportation company utilizes GPS tracking software to oversee its fleet of semi-trucks as they travel across the country. The software displays the real-time positions of all the trucks on a digital map, allowing dispatchers to coordinate efficient routes, monitor driver behavior, and ensure timely deliveries.
Fleet management companies often use both together to effectively manage their vehicles. For instance, a delivery service like FedEx may use GPS trackers to collect real-time data about the location of its delivery vans. This data is then processed by GPS tracking software to monitor and optimize routes, calculate accurate delivery timings, analyze driving behavior such as idling time or speeding, and prevent misuse of company vehicles.
An Overview of Key Differences
1. Hardware vs. Software: GPS trackers are physical hardware devices, while GPS tracking software is a digital platform or application.
2. Location Tracking: GPS trackers are responsible for determining the precise location of a vehicle or asset using GPS signals, while the tracking software receives and processes this location data for visualization and analysis.
3. Data Transmission: GPS trackers transmit location data to the tracking software via cellular or satellite networks, enabling real-time monitoring and reporting.
4. User Interface: GPS tracking software provides a user-friendly interface for fleet managers to monitor vehicle locations, access reports, and configure various settings and alerts.
5. Additional Features: Advanced GPS tracking software often incorporates additional features beyond location tracking, such as route optimization, driver behavior monitoring, fuel management, maintenance scheduling, and comprehensive reporting capabilities.
By understanding the distinct roles of GPS trackers and GPS tracking software, businesses can effectively leverage these technologies to gain comprehensive visibility and control over their mobile assets, streamlining operations, reducing costs, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Before You Go!
So, while both GPS tracking software and GPS trackers are used for determining a vehicle's location, they perform different tasks. GPS trackers gather location data, while GPS tracking software interprets and uses that data in beneficial ways. By working together, these devices help fleet management companies to operate more efficiently, save costs, and provide better service to their customers.