As GPS technology continues to evolve, combining it with an inertial navigation system (INS) creates a highly accurate and reliable positioning solution. This article explores how GPS and INS work individually and together, and introduces JimiIoT’s advanced tracker JM-VG01U, which provides uninterrupted, high-precision vehicle positioning—even in tunnels or urban canyons.

What Is an Inertial Navigation System (INS)?

An inertial navigation system is a self-contained technology that uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and initial location data to calculate the position, direction, and speed of a moving object—without relying on external signals. This makes INS especially valuable in environments where satellite signals are weak or blocked.

INS vs Embedded GPS Inertial Navigation System (EGI)

An Embedded GPS Inertial Navigation System (EGI) integrates the GPS module within the INS unit. This setup removes the need for external safety buses, improving data integrity in signal-jamming environments. EGI systems are deeply coupled, ensuring accurate, real-time updates even under adverse conditions.

INS vs GPS: How Do They Differ?

• INS operates independently of external signals and provides positioning using gyroscopes and accelerometers.
• GPS relies on satellite signals to calculate real-time location, speed, and time.

Feature	INS	GPS
Signal Requirement	None	Requires satellite connection
Accuracy	Up to centimeter-level	Typically 5–10 meters
Best Use Case	Tunnels, underground, GPS blind zones	Open environments, global positioning

INS + GPS: The Best of Both Worlds

By combining GPS and INS, JimiIoT creates a robust navigation system:

• Reduces Signal Loss: INS takes over when GPS signals are blocked (e.g., in tunnels).
• Enhances Accuracy: GPS data corrects cumulative errors in INS measurements.
• Boosts Reliability: Kalman filter algorithms merge data for optimal navigation results.
• Improves Safety: Reliable navigation without interruptions reduces risks.

JM-VG01U: Advanced INS-GPS Tracker by JimiIoT

The JM-VG01U from JimiIoT combines GNSS with inertial navigation algorithms to maintain accurate vehicle tracking in all conditions—including urban canyons, underground garages, and tunnels.

Key Features:

• Real-time, high-precision positioning
• Seamless tracking without GPS signals
• Multi-satellite system support: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou
• Adaptive navigation algorithm for better signal acquisition
• Fast first-fix time and stable performance

Even if GNSS signals are completely lost, the JM-VG01U continues to provide reliable speed, position, and orientation data.

Why INS Is the Future of Positioning

Each navigation system has its strengths. While GPS is globally available, INS offers higher accuracy in the short term. By integrating map data and intelligent learning algorithms, cumulative INS drift can be corrected in real-time. This makes INS a key component in the future of autonomous navigation and telematics.

To learn more about the JM-VG01U inertial navigation system GPS tracker, please contact us at info@jimiiot.com.