A beacon and a Global Positioning System (GPS) are the keys to being used for navigation in the area. Although both maximize indoor navigation, beacon and GPS have some significant differences.
The differences between beacon and GPS include technology, main functions, usage environment, range of use, and examples of use.
This article will delve into the important differences between beacon and GPS for indoor navigation.
What is a Beacon?
A beacon is an electronic device capable of providing information or sending contextual notifications to nearby user devices. Its ability to transmit data over a micro-local range is supported by Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology.
The signal emitted by the beacon can be captured by other devices such as smartphones, tablets, or other smart devices nearby. However, this small BLE-based device is only capable of emitting signals. It cannot receive data from outside sources such as WiFi or GPS.
What is GPS?
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that uses a constellation of satellites to provide accurate location information.
The system consists of Earth-orbiting satellites, control stations, and receivers such as mobile phones or navigation devices. The system works together to determine the user's position by measuring the distance from several satellites through the signals transmitted.
The Difference Between Beacon and GPS
A beacon and a Global Positioning System (GPS) are both used for navigating in the area, but they have some differences. Here are five differences between beacon and GPS:
1. Technology
Beacon: Uses BLE signals to communicate with other smart devices.
GPS: Uses satellites to receive signals to calculate location.
2. Main functions
Beacon: Triggers notifications, messages, or hyper-contextual content based on the user's micro-location.
GPS: Navigation, global location tracking, and accurate positioning across various terrains.
3. Usage environment
Beacon: Suitable for indoor use, such as retail stores, museums, or airports.
GPS: Suitable for outdoor use.
4. Range of use
Beacon: Has a range of approximately 1-50 meters, depending on the strength of the BLE signal.
GPS: Has a global range, as long as the device is still picking up satellite signals.
5. Examples of use
Beacon: Provides navigation when in large stores, museums, or exhibitions.
GPS: Provides navigation in cars or mobile phones for outdoor use.
That’s the difference between beacon and GPS that you can consider when choosing according to your personal needs.
If you are in an enclosed space and need a system that can provide directions, information, or promotions automatically, a QRP radio is a good choice. However, if you need directions while driving on the highway, you can choose an amateur radio transceiver.