Cookies: Our site uses cookies in order to deliver better content. By continuing you accept these cookies.
See all devices compared
Expand your fleet with Mini
Upgrade your fleet's IQ with CM4
Increase fleet visibility and secure all your operations in real-time
Optimize your operations or projects by obtaining insightful telematics data
Secure your operations with precise localization and secure key management
Manage your code in a secure and standardized method
Strengthen your data flow with an All-in-one gateway
Explore some of our exiting topics
Explore our extensive Cloud API
Get answers to your questions in our documentation
Get inspired by the potential
Reach out to our support for extended help
Our shop offer a wide selection accesories to your project
Get an introduction to our cloud for businesses. Schedule your demo for FREE
Do you have any questions? We have compiled a list of very useful faqs
Learn more about what it means to be a part of AutoPi
Contact us about solutions for your business or projects
Check out our open positions
Login to your AutoPi cloud account here
3 min read
The acronym GPS stands for Global Positioning System. As a satellite-based navigation system, GPS was initially developed by the U.S. Department of Defense for military purposes. Today, it has evolved into an essential tool for everyday life, providing accurate geographical location and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on Earth, under all weather conditions.
A network of about 24 satellites orbits the Earth, transmitting signals to ground-based GPS receivers. Each GPS receiver triangulates these signals to calculate its precise location.
This working principle involves three steps:
Triangulation from Satellite Signals: GPS receivers take the signals from multiple satellites to pinpoint your exact location.
Distance Measurement: The receiver calculates the distance to each satellite by the time it takes for each signal to reach the receiver.
Calculating Position: With the distance to at least four satellites known, the GPS receiver can compute an accurate location using trilateration.
If you want to know more about how GPS works, you can read this guide here.
In layman's terms, when someone asks, "What does GPS stand for?", they're likely referring to a device or app that uses GPS technology to provide real-time directions. From hiking and marine navigation to tracking deliveries and locating lost phones, GPS is integral to numerous activities.
For example, let's take a common scenario. Suppose you're driving to a new city. Your GPS device will provide turn-by-turn instructions, making your journey stress-free. In the event of a wrong turn, your device recalculates the route instantly.
From understanding what is GPS to knowing its practical applications, we hope this glossary has broadened your knowledge about this omnipresent technology. However, the science and technology behind GPS are complex, involving intricate data processing and advanced algorithms.
Understanding GPS isn't just for the tech-savvy. It's for everyone who benefits from this invisible but invaluable navigation aid every day. As you've now seen, answering the question, "what does GPS stand for?", opens up a world of fascinating information and demonstrates just how crucial this technology is to our everyday lives.
Get in touch with us – We're ready to answer any and all questions.
* Mandatory fields
Email our engineers
We are here to help!
E-mail us at sales@autopi.io or use the form below. We will get back to you ASAP.