Are there GPS dots?

Question

I know this sounds like a stupid question, but is there any way to put GPS dots in personal items, like a cell phone or a handheld gaming system? It would be really convenient to be able to track everything using that method, but if there is such a thing as that, how much would it cost?

Answer 1

no. not at the moment. remember GPS is a recieving system. in order to track things, another transmitter is required. right now this is often done using the cellular phone system: the gps data is sent to the reciever, the reciever then sends that data out on the network, and it's location can be tracked. This limits the size of any tracker.

Answer 2

not at the moment, but probably in the near future. however, if your device is indoors you are out of luck. at the moment GPS signals are not strong enough to penetrate buildings, but the DoD (Department of Defense, the governing body of the GPS network) is working on technology that will strengthen GPS signals which MAY in time allow for them to be used indoors. Also, the cost of such an item would be in the $300 range, which would make it impractical to track an item costing less, such as a PSP.

to correct the first 2 responses:

-While it is true that uncorrected GPS has low levels of accuracy, GPS can achieve accuracies of sub-meter or better in real time using a real time correction source such as the FAA's WAAS network or the Coast Guard's Beacon network.

-You are correct in your statement the GPS on its own is simply a passive technology, receiving signals and processing a location, and a transmitter is required for relaying that position for remote tracking. However, the technology is in wide-spread use, and is becoming more and more advanced. Originally, the technology was mostly used to manage vehicle fleets, but now it's available for locating your lost children (tamper-proof bracelets) and pets (collar worn receiver/transmitter - http://www.globalpetfinder.com). While the devices are currently 5 ounces or so, you know as well as I that electronics get smaller and smaller every day.

Answer 3

They're working on it! Just bear in mind, GPS can only get you to within about 30 feet of the item.

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