Non-directional tracking solution?
 

Hello,

I'm not certain this is the appropriate newsgroup for this question,
but if it isn't, I'd appreciate any referrals to other forums.

In many posts dealing with "foxhunts" and radio tracking situations, I
hear directional antennas discussed, or triangulation via a moving
receiver. But what are the relevant parameters if the receiving
stations are fixed?

Partly for the fun of it, and also for practical uses, I'd like to
design a receiving system whereby a small transmitter could be
located. This would not technically be a "tracking" situation, since
the transmitter would not always be on. I'm imagining something like
a garage door opener, where pushing the button can send a brief (but
very strong if necessary - this may have power implications?) signal.

The reason I ask about the non-directional solution is because I have
access to a plot of land approx. 300 x 300 feet square, with no
restrictions on building antennas on the four corners of the property.
I'm guessing such a system could be more accurate than a directional
system at a given power level, but the technical aspects of the
situation are beyond me.

I am a mathematician by trade, but know a smattering of electronics.
It would seem, at least in theory, that the relevant parameters here
are the distances between the 3-4 antennas (would a 4th help?), and
the strength and frequency of the signal. I also realize that some
processing of the signal would need to be done at the receiving end.
Perhaps the triangulation can be handled by software?

Any advice, direction, URLs, or discussion is much appreciated.

-wp