Q.What do you know about GPS? Write a few applications of GPS.

Step 1. What GPS is. GPS stands for Global Positioning System -- a global navigation satellite system that offers geolocation (precise position) and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth.

Step 2. How it works. GPS works with the assistance of a satellite network; each satellite broadcasts a precise signal like an ordinary radio signal. These signals, carrying location data, are received by a low-cost aerial and translated by GPS software, which recognises the satellite, its location, and the time taken for the signal to travel from each satellite. The software then processes this data from multiple satellites to estimate the receiver's own location (Figure 10.10 shows the constellation of satellites surrounding the Earth that makes this possible from almost any point on the globe).

Step 3. Applications. (i) Fleet vehicle management -- tracking the location of cars, trucks and buses.

(ii) Wildlife management -- counting wild animal populations. …

Define GPS, explain the satellite-timing mechanism briefly, then list …

• Confusing GPS with GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), which is a different, related technology mentioned under mobile communication. …