GPS
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Telecom
| Stands for | Global Positioning System |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
GPS stands for Global Positioning System, a telecom abbreviation.
US satellite navigation system that lets receivers anywhere on Earth calculate their position, speed and precise time from signals broadcast by a constellation of about 30 satellites. Phones, cars, aircraft, ships and financial networks rely on it.
Example: The GPS says we're ten minutes away, but traffic is getting worse.
Usage notes
The US Department of Defense launched the first GPS satellite in 1978, and the system reached full operational capability in 1995; the US Space Force now operates it. After the 1983 shootdown of Korean Air Lines Flight 007, the US promised civilian access, and deliberate signal degradation, called Selective Availability, was switched off in 2000. Phones typically achieve accuracy of a few meters outdoors, aided by cell and Wi-Fi data (A-GPS).
Related abbreviations
More telecom abbreviations
- FTTH – Fiber to the home
- FTTP – Fiber to the premises
- FWA – Fixed wireless access
- gNB – Next-generation Node B
- GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite System
- GPRS – General Packet Radio Service
- GSM – Global System for Mobile Communications
- GSMA – GSM Association
- HFC – Hybrid fiber-coaxial
- HSPA – High Speed Packet Access
- ICCID – Integrated Circuit Card Identifier
- IMEI – International Mobile Equipment Identity