GPS refers to a Global Positioning System, a network of satellites and receivers designed primarily for tracking and navigation and surveillance. GPS is available commercially. Car owners may choose to have GPS anti-theft devices installed in order to locate a vehicle that is missing or stolen.
In the case of automobile tracking, a transmitter is hidden in the body of the vehicle and runs off the car battery or a separate battery pack placed under the hood. The transmitters are not turned on until they are needed. In the event of a theft, the transmitter is activated by the vehicle's owner, allowing the location of a car to be sent to a server. Software is used to plot the vehicle's location on a map.
Some automobiles come with GPS tracking devices pre-installed, and they are monitored by the companies that installed them. One such example is OnStar, a company that works exclusively with GM vehicles. OnStar offers services that extend beyond vehicle security--specifically, Onstar representatives offer emergency and navigational assistance as needed.
Vehicle tracking devices are also available for purchase and installation. These devices are sold with the software that will allow the user to track the vehicle in the event of a theft.
