1. What is GPS?

   GPS stands for Global Positioning System.  GPS is a satellite navigation system used to determine ground position and velocity (location, speed, and direction). 

   GPS determines the location of a mobile device by triangulating its position from at least three satellites orbiting around the planet. The technology is used to locate Mike and PCS devices and in-vehicle modems part of TELUS Tracking and Dispatch Solutions. 

   To utilize and to reap the benefits of GPS technology a GPS receiver, whether it’s a small asset tag, in-vehicle modem or simply one’s handset or Smartphone is required.  In addition, a mapping and reporting system (software or web application) to view the asset position, manipulate the information and to receive reports and alerts on asset activities is required.  TELUS Tracking and Dispatch Solutions have it all.

2. What are the differences between GPS and Assisted GPS (AGPS)?

   GPS determines the location of a mobile device by triangulating its position from at least three satellites orbiting around the planet. The technology is used to locate Mike and PCS devices and in-vehicle modems part of TELUS Tracking and Dispatch Solutions. 

   AGPS combines the reliability of triangulating the position from at least three satellites with the added help of TELUS’ mobile network. It works indoor and outdoor and can use GPS or AGPS to triangulate the current position, depending on the location of the device. It also reduces the power requirements as assistance data is provided to the device. For real-time driving directions, TELUS Navigator uses AGPS technology to provide accurate location information and turn-by-turn driving instructions.  TELUS Resource Tracker (PCS), TELUS Track and Dispatch (PCS) and TELUS Asset Tracker all utilize AGPS.   

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3. What types of GPS solutions does TELUS provide for business clients?

   Several TELUS GPS solutions are currently available:

   • PCS Handset/Smartphone based navigation
   • PCS and Mike Handset/Smartphone tracking
   • PCS and Mike Handset/Smartphone tracking with dispatch capabilities
   • Vehicle and fleet tracking
   • Trailer, equipment and package tracking.   

   These solutions use either GPS or Assisted GPS (AGPS) location based technologies.

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4. How accurate is this technology?

   The accuracy of the location information you receive from GPS and AGPS services will vary based on device type and geographic conditions – whether the handset is indoors or outdoors, surrounded by tall buildings, etc.  In optimal conditions, the location of a GPS enabled device will be accurate to within a few meters.

   AGPS will improve the accuracy of locating mobile devices while indoors and reduce the time it takes to determine the position.  

   Generally, the following technologies will provide these ranges of accuracy:

   • GPS – 3 meters up to 25 meters
   • AGPS (for medium to high population densities) – 15 meters up to 150 meters
   • AGPS (for low population densities) – 150 meters up to 1000 meters

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