Which device utilizes GPS technology to communicate with traffic signals automatically?

GPS-based traffic signal preemption is a specific technology that leverages GPS to enhance traffic management. It allows emergency vehicles or other prioritized traffic to signal traffic lights to change, enabling a smoother flow of traffic in critical situations. This system improves response times for emergency services by reducing delays caused by standard traffic signals.

The key aspect of GPS-based traffic signal preemption is the automatic communication established through GPS technology. When an emergency vehicle is approaching, its GPS device communicates its location to the traffic management system, prompting the relevant signals to change in advance of the vehicle's arrival. This functionality is particularly valuable in urban areas where timely access is crucial and can significantly impact life-saving operations.

While traffic signal controllers manage how signals operate and communicate, and traffic control systems encompass a broader range of traffic management tools, it is the GPS-based preemption that specifically refers to the automatic communication with traffic signals driven by location data. Radar traffic signals, on the other hand, focus more on detecting vehicle presence and speed rather than utilizing GPS for signal communication.