There are many acronyms used in the world of mobile technology, and two of the most commonly misunderstood are GPS and GPRS. Many people use them interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings and purposes. In this blog post, we’ll clear up any confusion and explain the difference between GPS and GPRS.
What is GPS?
GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services to users on a continuous basis. The GPS system consists of three segments: the space segment, the control segment, and the user segment. The space segment is composed of GPS satellites that orbit the earth; the control segment consists of ground stations that monitor and control the GPS satellites; and the user segment consists of GPS receivers that receive GPS signals from GPS satellites and compute position, velocity, and time. GPS signals are continuously transmitted by GPS satellites on two frequencies: L1 (1575.42 MHz) and L2 (1227.60 MHz). GPS receivers use these signals to compute position, velocity, and time. Position information can be displayed in several different coordinate systems, including latitude/longitude/altitude (LLA), Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM), World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84), and Military Grid Reference System (MGRS). Velocity information can be displayed in several different units, including feet per second (fps), knots, kilometers per hour (kph), and miles per hour (mph).
What is GPRS?
GPRS, or Global Positioning System, is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on or near the Earth’s surface. It is a global navigation system that consists of a network of 24 satellites that orbit the earth. The GPRS system provides users with three-dimensional position, velocity, and time information. GPRS is used in a variety of applications including surveying, mapping, GIS, asset tracking, and mobile phone location. GPRS has been operational since 1989 and is managed by the U.S. Air Force. The GPRS system is free and open to all users.
Difference between GPS and GPRS
GPS and GPRS are both systems that provide positioning and location information. GPS uses a network of satellites to determine the exact location of a user, while GPRS relies on mobile phone towers and base stations. GPS is more accurate than GPRS, but GPRS can work in places where GPS signals are obstructed, such as indoors or in urban areas. GPS is also more expensive to use than GPRS, as it requires specialized equipment. However, GPS provides real-time tracking, while GPRS only provides location information at specific intervals. As a result, GPS is better suited for applications where real-time tracking is essential, such as in-vehicle navigation systems.
Conclusion
GPS and GPRS are both technologies used for tracking. They both have their benefits, but they also have their drawbacks. Let’s take a look at the key differences between these two technologies so you can decide which one is right for your needs. GPS technology is most commonly used in tracking vehicles or assets. It relies on satellites to provide location data, which makes it accurate over long distances. However, this type of system can be expensive to set up and maintain. GPRS technology is less accurate than GPS, but it is much more affordable and easier to set up.
