This is an entry level article about passive and active gps tracking. It does a decent job going over the the difference between passive and active GPS tracking, but spends much more time on active tracking than passive. You will definately want to do more research after reading the article, but you will know where to go next for info on GPS tracking vehcail after reading the article.

Vehicle tracking devices utilize GPS, global positioning system,
to electronically track the location of a vehicle. GPS
satellites transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers
pick up and store this information. The receivers work best with
an unobstructed view of the sky so they are best used outdoors
and not in highly forested areas or near tall buildings. GPS
systems use an accurate time reference, which is provided by an
atomic clock on board the satellite.

Vehicle tracking devices have many uses. They are often used by
companies to keep track of business mileage and job performance.
As an anti-theft device, vehicle trackers are used to enable
police to locate a stolen vehicle quickly and easily. Many auto
insurance companies offer a special discount to those who have a
tracking device installed in their vehicles. They are also
useful for navigation. A vehicle tracker can be hooked up to an
on-board laptop computer to provide the driver with location and
direction of travel. Vehicle tracking devices can also be used
to keep track of family members, especially teenagers who are
only allowed minimal vehicle access. Certain types of GPS
systems are linked to special services such calling 911 in
emergency situations and reporting your location so that
emergency responders can find you.

There are 2 types of vehicle tracking devices: real-time and
passive. The real time tracking system allows you to locate a
vehicle live on the website. Special computer software is loaded
onto the computer that will be used to access the information.
When connected to the internet, you can view real-time
information on the location, speed and direction of travel of a
vehicle. Before buying a real time tracking device, make sure
that your computer systems are compatible to the requirements of
the tracking software.

Vehicle tracking devices that use real-time technology require a
monthly subscription to a GPS service. This price varies from
company to company but is generally under $20 per month. The
subscription is typically purchased along with the tracking
device.

Passive GPS tracking system isn't as sophisticated as real-time
system, but is less expensive. The tracking device is placed
inside a vehicle and information stored can be easily downloaded
to your computer at a later time. This allows you to view where
the vehicle has been, often recorded at 15-minute intervals.

Many new companies are springing up all the time, so be sure to
buy your vehicle tracking device from a reputable company. You
can easily locate a good dealer on the internet. There are some
well-known companies that are adept at providing high-quality
tracking service. If you are not computer savvy most companies
offer to help you get started and can assist on an ongoing basis
if problems occur.

About the author:
GPS tracking systems are becoming very popular in providing
vehicle tracking solutions to personal and business needs.
Vehicle tracking devices can help you save time and money. There
are gps tracking systems to suit every budget and needs. Check
out our top resources on the latest gps systems at
http://www.gpstrackingsys.com/art-vehdev

Tags: gps vehical tracking - vehcail - passive tracking - active tracking - gps - vehicle tracking devices