How Do Ankle Monitors Work? (and Other Frequently Asked Questions)
We break down the technology behind GPS tracking and answer your most pressing questions about daily life with an ankle monitor.
If you or a loved one are preparing for the intake process, understanding how the equipment functions is the first step toward a successful monitoring period. At My GPS Monitor, we use the industry-leading ReliAlert™XC4 device.
Here is a clear explanation of how the technology works, followed by answers to the most common questions we receive.
The Core Technology: How It Tracks You
The device strapped to your ankle is essentially a highly durable, locked-down smartphone combined with military-grade GPS.
- GPS Satellites: The device constantly receives signals from GPS satellites orbiting the earth to pinpoint your exact location, updating every 2 seconds.
- Cellular Networks: It uses standard 4G LTE cellular networks (like your mobile phone) to transmit that location data back to our secure monitoring center.
- Cellular Triangulation: If you go indoors and lose the GPS satellite signal, the device automatically switches to cellular triangulation (using nearby cell towers) to maintain a location fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Understanding how your ankle monitor works removes the mystery and helps you avoid accidental violations. By maintaining a charge and following your approved schedule, the device will remain silent, allowing you to focus on your daily life.