GPS interference

The use of GPS devices has become an integral part of everyday life. This technology is already completely integrated and makes many processes in everyday life easier; this does not only apply to businesses, private individuals also use this technology. GPS systems can provide various services in several ways and the application is flexible. However, such technology is not free from errors; a GPS failure or a faulty signal are not uncommon. If the user notices problems and they are due to the device itself, they can in most cases be resolved on their own.

How does navigation via GPS work?

The well-known abbreviation GPS stands for the term global positioning system . It describes a procedure in which you can determine your exact location. Due to the use of the satellite system , this is possible globally. A satellite navigation system makes it possible to locate the position with high accuracy. It was originally developed in the USA and provided specifically for the military, at that time for waging wars.

The satellite system is now also used by civilian users around the world . It is used in air traffic, reliably guides aircraft and the pilot to their destination and supports landing. It is also used on boats on the high seas. Private individuals primarily use this technology in their own vehicles .

In the meantime, even modern smartphones support this project; a special GPS transmitter is not always necessary to receive signals from the satellites. In order for the whole thing to work smoothly, a few basic requirements must be met. Among other things, the device must have a good view of satellites ; EPO files also help the system to quickly connect to nearby satellites. The GPS transmitter also requires an active SIM card in order to send the calculated data to a connected device.

Detect interference with the GPS signal

Various disturbances can affect the GPS, these can be natural or artificially generated. If you have the feeling that your signal is not working properly, you can easily test it independently. If the device is slow to receive a suitable signal, this is an indication of a possible problem . If the connection attempt takes longer than five minutes, there is definitely a connection problem. This means that reception is impaired and it is difficult to calculate the position .

How do GPS interference occur?

One reason for such problems can be so-called jammers ; they weaken the transmission field and interrupt contact, which makes location more difficult and hinders the device in use.

The device may have hardly been used in the past few days and the user left it lying around, which could also be a reason why it no longer responds immediately. The  connection is then not as fast or precise as it was at the beginning.

GPS signal disturbed – does this affect the performance of the device when navigating?

You can view fault messages online or get help with your own device. You can also find answers on the manufacturer’s website , which explains exactly how the tracker works and what needs to be taken into account for smooth tracking . On internet platforms you can check whether disruptions have been reported in the last few days or view current disruptions in a specific area. This is how you find out whether you are affected yourself. The GPS device itself often shows this; an error message on the display is the indicator.

How to fix glitchy GPS

If you receive the corresponding message on the device , it indicates that poor GPS signals are preventing a fast connection. The user can  try to restart the navigation device first. Depending on the model, there is a connection between an overload of the tracker and an interrupted, slow position determination.

The user should also check whether the date and time are set correctly ; these can also be responsible for the error caused. You can see in the device settings whether an update currently needs to be carried out. The user should also check whether valid EPO files are activated; these point the tracker to satellites and promote quick location .

The fast service of GPS systems can only be guaranteed if all of these points are taken into account in the basic settings. But if the malfunction is general and the device is not responsible for it, the user must take precautions. In this case, you should not rely solely on the equipment. A good option is to download or even print out the route in advance, so it is also available offline and there are no delays.