location tracking
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location tracking
The technical determination of the location or position of an object, vehicle, or person, for example using GPS or radio waves.
Die Polizei konnte durch die Ortung des Handys den Aufenthaltsort des Vermissten feststellen.
Through the location tracking of the cell phone, the police were able to determine the whereabouts of the missing person.
'Die Ortung' (location tracking) is the nominalization of the verb 'orten' (to locate). The ending '-ung' turns the action 'orten' (to locate) into the noun 'die Ortung' (location tracking).
Es ist nicht immer einfach, ein verlorenes Schiff auf dem Meer zu orten.
It is not always easy to locate a lost ship at sea.
The word 'Ortung' (location tracking) is almost always used in connection with technology. Typical methods are 'GPS-Ortung' (GPS tracking) or 'Ortung per Handysignal' (tracking by cell phone signal).
Die Ortung des gestohlenen Autos war nur möglich, weil es ein GPS-Modul hatte.
Tracking the stolen car was only possible because it had a GPS module.
The object that is being located is often connected using the genitive or with 'von' + dative. Both forms are correct and common.
Die Ortung des vermissten Bergsteigers war erfolgreich.
The tracking of the missing mountain climber was successful.
navigation
'Navigation' and 'Ortung' can both have to do with the position of an object or a person. 'Ortung' means technically finding out where something is, for example with GPS. 'Navigation' goes further: you use the position to plan a route and get to a destination. The words can be confused because navigation often needs location tracking. But 'Ortung' mainly answers the question 'Where is it?', while 'Navigation' is more about 'How do I get there?'.
Nach dem Diebstahl half die Ortung, das Fahrrad wiederzufinden.
After the theft, location tracking helped recover the bicycle.
Die Navigation führt uns durch die engen Straßen bis zum Hotel.
The navigation guides us through the narrow streets to the hotel.