GPS positioning uses the GPS module on the phone to send its own position information to the positioning background, and calculates based on the satellite positioning data to realize phone positioning. GPS positioning accuracy is high, if the satellite signal coverage is not good (such as tall buildings, dense buildings, basements, tunnels, mountainous areas, etc.), it will lead to unable to locate.
Carrier Base station positioning uses the connection of the carrier's base station to the phone signal to locate the phone. The positioning accuracy of the base station depends on the distribution and coverage of the base station, so the accuracy is low, but it can be positioned indoors.
1. Technology and Infrastructure:
GPS Positioning: GPS (Global Positioning System) relies on a constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth. GPS receivers calculate their position by triangulating signals from multiple satellites. It is a global, satellite-based system and does not depend on cellular or wireless networks.
Carrier Base Station Positioning: This method relies on the infrastructure of cellular or wireless networks. It determines a device's location by measuring its proximity to cell towers or base stations. This system operates within the coverage area of the cellular network.
2. Accuracy:
GPS Positioning: GPS is generally known for high accuracy. It can provide location information with a precision of a few meters under open sky conditions.
Carrier Base Station Positioning: The accuracy of carrier base station positioning can vary depending on factors like the density of cell towers and the environment. In urban areas with many towers, it can provide reasonably accurate location data, but in rural or remote areas, it may be less accurate.
3. Availability:
GPS Positioning: GPS is available worldwide, making it a global positioning solution. It is suitable for outdoor and open environments.
Carrier Base Station Positioning: This method is primarily available in areas covered by cellular networks. It may not be as reliable in remote or rural areas with limited network coverage.
4. Power Consumption:
GPS Positioning: GPS can consume more power, especially when using real-time tracking, as it requires communication with multiple satellites.
Carrier Base Station Positioning: Carrier base station positioning can be more power-efficient, as it relies on communication with nearby cell towers, which are generally closer than GPS satellites.
5. Use Cases:
GPS Positioning: GPS is commonly used for navigation, location-based services, tracking, and outdoor activities.
Carrier Base Station Positioning: Carrier-based positioning is often used for location-based services, especially in urban areas, and for determining the general location of mobile devices for network management and emergency services.
