As positioning technology continues to evolve, two key solutions are transforming fleet management: server-assisted GPS and traditional asset tracking devices. Both technologies aim to improve location accuracy, but they differ significantly in infrastructure, processing approach, and ideal use cases.
What Is Inverse Differential GPS (IDGPS)?
Inverse Differential GPS is a variation of DGPS where a central server gathers GPS data from mobile units and applies DGPS corrections at the server level, not on each device. The mobile unit only needs basic GPS functionality. This makes IDGPS cost-effective for fleets since:
- Mobile devices don’t require DGPS-enabled receivers
- Only the central server processes correction data
- Existing communication infrastructure can support it
It’s especially ideal for sectors like mass transit, logistics, and delivery fleets, where communication links between vehicle and dispatch already exist.
With the deactivation of Selective Availability (S/A), some applications may no longer require DGPS-level accuracy, but IDGPS still provides centralized, scalable, and refined tracking.
What Is Server-Assisted GPS?
Server-assisted GPS uses a specialized location server to support GPS signal acquisition and calculation, especially in environments with poor satellite visibility like underground garages or urban canyons.
System Components:
- A location server with satellite data
- A reference receiver in the mobile unit
- A two-way communication link between the two
How It Works:
- The server sends current satellite view data to the mobile device
- The mobile device collects satellite snapshots using this reference
- Pseudorange data is calculated and sent back to the server
- The final position is processed at the server and returned to the mobile device
This model offloads processing from the mobile device, increases sensitivity, and supports location retrieval even in signal-obstructed environments.
Key Differences Between Server-Assisted GPS and Asset Tracking Devices
| Feature | Server-Assisted GPS | Traditional Asset Tracking Device |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Power | Centralized (Server-side) | On-device |
| Infrastructure | Requires location server & communication link | Self-contained |
| Accuracy | High in obstructed areas | Standard GPS-based |
| Ideal Use | On-demand or infrequent tracking | Continuous location tracking |
| Cost Structure | Higher infrastructure cost, lower mobile cost | Cost distributed per device |
JimiIoT’s Role in Smart Fleet Tracking
JimiIoT offers a full range of fleet tracking solutions that integrate both traditional GPS tracking and server-assisted positioning techniques. These tools are designed to ensure:
- Real-time vehicle visibility
- Accurate tracking even in dense urban or indoor environments
- Reduced hardware burden on mobile units
Want to know more?
📩 Contact us: sales@JimiIoT.com
🌐 Visit: www.JimiIoT.com
