Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Exploring the Different GPS Systems


Global positioning system satellites are finally showing their usefulness to the average consumer. Although not everyone is equipped with GPS systems, there are more devices out in the mainstream market these days. You might even be overwhelmed with the vast selection that you cannot make up your mind as to what GPS system to get. The way to do it is to figure out your needs and explore the different options. There is bound to be a category for you as there are over five types of GPS systems available.

Basic

Basic GPS systems are equipped with basic receivers that are just enough for reporting the current location using latitude and longitude units. Their limited storage capacity may allow some base maps to be preloaded in the device. These maps normally contain major highways, landmarks, and some points of interest. Don't expect these systems to be very graphical since they use scaled-down processors, but they come out cheap going under $100.

Sports

Sports GPS systems have similar features as the basic ones, but they come with stat tracking tools that benefit training athletes or sports enthusiasts. Some of these tools include heart rate monitors and calorie trackers. For convenience, these GPS devices are worn rather than held so their exercising routines aren't interrupted. One example of such systems is the GPS watch.

Car

Car GPS systems are self-explanatory, but they come in two different types. The popular type is the portable units that are bought separately. Many known GPS manufacturers offer tons of models at budget and premium prices. Some of the premium models contain advanced features like Bluetooth functionality and online connectivity to get real-time traffic information. These systems often come with suction cups so you can mount them to the windshield or dashboard.

The In-dash units are a bit more expensive, but look nicer as they are permanently mounted in the car. The only disadvantage is that the GPS system cannot be taken to another vehicle if needed. However, they better integrate with the features of your car resulting in better functionality.

Portable

Portable devices are evolving to become more multifunctional than ever. This started around the time when PDAs were still popular and some of the more modern devices are equipped with GPS features and matching GPS software. These software applications eventually made their way to smartphones so people can plan routes using their phones interface. The touchscreen phones are even better as they resemble the portable car GPS systems and make better use of the screen to display detailed high-resolution maps. Removable media storage is also increasing in capacity allowing more maps and waypoints to be stored as well.

For special purposes such as marine GPS, certain GPS applications can be installed in laptops as long as they have the GPS receiver hardware too. Although it is bulkier than the other portable GPS systems, laptops are fitted with more powerful specifications and larger screens.

These days, people are leaning on the car GPS and other portable GPS systems. Basic GPS devices are slowly becoming a thing of the past and many of the sports GPS device features are found in mobile phones.




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