What is GSM triangulation?

GSM triangulation determines approximately the distance of a GMS device from the cell to which it is connected. Thanks to the connection of GSM devices to multiple cells and the use of mathematical algorithms, you can determine (with an error of a few km) the location of a device. The location is found thanks to the information that is available in the GSM network.
Omnidirectional cell: If a cell is omnidirectional, it is possible to know the position with maximum precision equal to the cell’s radius. The device is therefore inside the area covered by the cell. An omnidirectional cell is created by antennas that radiate in all directions.
Omnidirectional cell and timing advance: Timing advance can be used to increase tracking accuracy. By stimulating a device to connect, the network estimates the distance, calculating the transmission delay time. The location zone is reduced from a circle to a circular crown. The device is therefore inside the circular crown.
Sector cell: If the site radiates several sectors, it is possible to locate the device with the maximum precision of the circular sector covered by the cell. The device is therefore inside the circular sector.
Sector cell and timing advance: Timing advance can be used in this case as well to increase tracking accuracy. The location zone is reduced from a circular sector to a circular crown sector. The device is therefore inside the circular crown sector.