Guide in Choosing Car GPS Systems

The global positioning system (GPS) is a piece of equipment that uses satellite technology to provide data for maps and positioning at any time of the day. Quite a number of new automobiles come with GPS systems. Other GPS systems can be bought online or over-the-counter and installed or used as a portable device. Technological advancements help GPS systems to be developed updated continuously. The devices are getting smaller in size as they also become more powerful and more accurate. A GPS works as a mobile map that helps one know their exact location and guides one in the best routes and nearby establishments.

Choosing to have a GPS vehicle tracking system installed in one's car will save one from the hassle of being lost and asking for directions. To be guided in selecting the right GPS vehicle tracking system, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Frequency of Use

In looking for the best automotive GPS systems, one should have figured out or estimated how often one is going to need it and use it. If one is not going to need it very often, it is recommended to consider the inexpensive automotive GPS systems available. On the other hand, if one expects to use it very often, it would be better to find automotive GPS units that are user friendly.

Kind of Tracking Systems

There are four major types of GPS automobile tracking systems that one can choose from, the car navigation GPS system, the portable outdoors GPS unit, the marine GPS unit, and the PDA/GPS hybrid. Overall, one could find the in-car GPS navigation system the most useful when you want to know your exact location when you're driving without a map.

Car Positioning

In choosing automotive GPS systems, one should consider the car's layout. Most GPS units have monitors that display directions and maps on them. Usually, these monitors are placed on the dashboard or on an attachable pedestal from the dash. Some vehicles do not have the space and capacity to hold GPS units and that can block important vents for air or make it uncomfortable for a person in the passenger seat.

Multi-Functions

Every client or buyer's first priority in purchasing an item is its functionality. In choosing an automotive GPS system, it would be better to have a GPS that has multiple functionalities. Quite a number of automotive GPS systems provide directions by an address back, an address typed in, a location selected on a map, or even by the nearest intersection.

Real-Time Tracking Updates

Another feature that should be considered in looking for a GPS automobile tracking system is its ability to provide a "real-time" wireless network that can help process information through visual representation. This is very helpful in verifying if one is going the right way and making the correct turns.

Audio Instructions

One should also consider looking for a GPS automobile tracking system that is capable of giving audio instructions while driving. Several models only provide visual location maps which might not be useful when one is driving alone.

Price

When one has decided on the kind of GPS system and the features it has, one's budget should also be considered. The differences in pricing usually depend on the number of features the system provides, however there are less expensive models that have enough features for most users. Prices for GPS units range from under $100 for the Garmin Nuvi 200 through Home Depot to nearly $400 for the Magellan Maestro 5310.

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How Does a GPS System Work? Where to Get the Best GPS Systems For Your Needs

Basically a GPS System consists of 3 parts.

1. The Satellite System,

2. The Ground Station and

3. The GPS Receiver

Satellite System:

The SPS satellite system consists of 24 satellites operated by the United States Airforce and is called NAVSTAR. They are solar powered and have backup batteries to keep working during eclipses. Each satellite orbits the earth twice every day. Together the 24 satellites cover the entire earth from their various high orbits. They are designed to orbit in such a way that at any point of time any GPS system on earth receives signals from at least 4 satellites. These satellites have atomic clocks aboard them which keep accurate time.

The Ground Stations:

These stations keep sending up signals to keep the data on the satellites accurate. Sometimes, the satellites go out of orbit or data on them is outdated. The master ground station continuously monitors the signals and sends up corrected information so the data aboard the satellites is accurate all the time. So, when a GPS system logs on to these signals the data is always accurate.

GPS Receiver:

GPS receiver is the device you use to find your way around anywhere on Earth. The receiver GPS device receives the data from the satellites and calculates its position on earth. For the GPS system to find the location accurately it needs to receive signals from at least 4 satellites.

The GPS satellites emit low power radio signals of two frequencies. One is intended for military use and the other frequency L1 is for civilian use. There are 3 bits of information transmitted by the satellite which is used by the GPS system to make simple calculations to find the location on earth.

The principle on which GPS system works is very simple. At every moment the GPS receiver calculates the distance between itself and a satellite from space. You can be anywhere on a sphere defined by this "distance" as the radius. The GPS receiver does this same calculation for four satellites. The intersection of the 4 spheres gives your coordinates on earth.

GPS Systems Can FAIL:

But for this to work the GPS receiver needs to be in the open with a clear view of the skies where it can get uninterrupted low power radio signals from the satellites. It won't work indoors - inside buildings, homes and offices. It does not work underground. It does not work in caves and mines. It does not work when there are tall buildings or thick foliage like in a dense forest. It does not work underwater. In short ,it does not work where you can't get clear satellite signals so make sure you are in view of open skies before you try to determine your position. Else, you might get faulty readings from your GPS Systems that can endanger you.

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Truck Drivers and RV Owners Are Getting GPS Systems Just For Them

GPS for trucks are becoming more available and it's about time.

If any sector of the marketplace was in need of GPS navigational systems it is the trucking industry. Yet this truckers GPS potential market seems to have been ignored by the GPS manufacturers or at least until now. It's like someone turned on the light as there are now some really useful truck GPS systems coming on the market. Not only are these useful for truckers but they are also a great aide to RV owners as with a GPS for RV many of the requirements are the same.

These new trucker GPS units aren't just maps showing the route to a particular destination, but rather allow the vehicle driver to input critical data about the vehicle and its' load. For instance, the driver can input the length, width, weight and height of the load. In addition, most truckers GPS systems allow the trucker to input the Hazmat level of the load. All this information is taken into consideration when creating the route. Restricted roads show up on the map and are avoided by the routing system. In addition, many of the new truck GPS units warn of high winds, steep inclines, hazardous  turns and more. All these are extremely important to the driver and can save time and fuel.

For truckers making deliveries, there are systems that allow the driver to enter the addresses of all his stops and then the GPS will create the most efficient route for the driver to take, saving him valuable time and allowing the most efficient  use of the vehicle.

Like many auto GPS systems, many of the new trucker GPS units have traffic alert capability enabling the driver to avoid expensive traffic tie-ups and get there on time. In the trucking industry "time is money" is really true and these new units go a long way to help the drivers and their companies save both. 

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The Latest GPS Navigation Systems Are Equipped With Numerous Facilities Like 3-D Maps, Traffic Alert

Whether you want to visit your favorite deli or take a nice peaceful trip outside the city, your GPS navigator can effectively help you reach your destination faster without needing to sit in traffic for hours. Car GPS navigation systems can help you with maps, turn-by-turn directions and that's not all, it can also guide you towards multiple points of interest.

The latest GPS navigation systems are equipped with numerous facilities like 3-D maps, traffic alerts, easy touch screen, hands free calling etc. Some models also offer FM transmitters; this makes it easier for you to hear alerts and prompts through your own car stereo. Many navigators come equipped with theft prevention features, Bluetooth, and a couple of other helpful features to aid the driver.

There are many vehicles on the market that come equipped with a GPS navigator, however if your car does not come with a GPS navigator, you can consider buying a separate portable unit for yourself. This portable unit can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield of your car.

Here below are some of the features that you should look for when buying a GPS navigation system:

1. Accurate navigation is the most important feature that your GPS should offer; also, it is advisable to go for a navigator that recalculates routes fast.

2. A GPS screen should be easy to touch as well as read. Also, the displays on your navigator should be very clear and sharp. Preferably, pick a model that can be viewed in different lighting conditions, including daylight.

3. Voice command is offered by a few models, this can be helpful as it allows the driver to operate certain functions solely with voice.

4. If you like to do exploring on foot often, it is wiser to consider a lightweight GPS navigator. Although in most cases the cheaper models tend to be lighter, there are a few premium units that are lightweight and easy to carry.

5. Invest in a GPS navigation system that comes equipped with street-level mapping, updating your mapping software can be done for no extra cost.

6. Aside from the basic features of preloaded maps and driving directions, also look for features like Bluetooth and text-to-speech capability.

7. Additional features to look for would be real-time traffic support, FM transmitters and some new models offer MP3 playback for music on the go.

8. Make sure that the GPS has a long battery life, the longer the better. Although, a GPS unit offering a long battery life can be expensive, it will be worth every penny you spend.

9. Before making a decision make sure that the features the unit offers are in perfect working condition, for example it is very important for the pronunciation and sound of the device to be clear otherwise you would end up looking at the unit more often than the road.

Car GPS navigation systems can make car travel easy and hassle free. You no longer need to crack your brains on deciphering complicated directions and maps; you GPS navigator can help you get to your destination safe and sound.

There are many companies offering top-of-the-line products like TomTom, Magellan, Garmin and many more. With so many options, why not go ahead and choose one that suits your driving needs the best to make traveling easier and so much better.

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GPS Auto Navigation Systems

Over the past couple of years, the cost of installing a GPS auto navigation system has fallen considerably. As an inevitable result of this, more and more people are taking advantage of it in order to make it easier to find out where they are going, plan their journeys, and keep track of where they are.

Satellite navigation dates back a lot longer than many people realize. The principles behind SatNav were first tested back in 1967, but it took nearly 30 years before the NavStar GPS System first began operation as a military application in the mid 1990s. Civilian use of GPS navigation was made available soon after the military launch, but the initial costs of using the system were very high, and required ongoing subscriptions to be paid. The first people who took advantage of GPS were pilots, and surveyors, who needed to be able to measure distances with pinpoint accuracy. In the early days , an affordable GPS auto navigation system was out of reach for the average car owner.

Over time, the costs of GPS auto navigation system has fallen considerably, and there are increasing numbers of applications for them and the data that they provide in our daily lives. Manufacturers such as Garmin and TomTom have combined GPS signals Data with existing map information and complex mathematical algorithms to create systems that can be used for navigation on the roads and highways.

These GPS auto navigation systems can be installed into any car in a matter of minutes, and then be used to plan journeys, and keep track of where you are to stop you getting lost on the roads. By being combined with other data, such as traffic news feeds, GPS auto navigation systems can warn drivers about road congestion, and provide alternative routes in real time to ensure that no-one who has such a GPS needs get stuck in a queue again.

There are a number of different styles of GPS auto navigation systems available to suit the needs of the individual, from basic models through to expensive and highly accurate systems able to manage large amounts of data and provide information to the users in order to give feedback about where they have been.

The simplest kind of auto navigation GPS system is a removable gadget that stores the map data internally, and uses a satellite signal to pinpoint the position of the unit. By combining the map data and the satellite signal, routes can be planned, and the user can find their way, while seeing a graphical representation of their route on a small screen. These GPS auto navigation systems can be either removable, or fixed into the car. Many new models actually integrate the GPS into the dashboard, while non fixed systems can either be mounted on the dash, or attached to the windshield using a suction cup.

As well as dedicated auto GPS devices, it is also possible to buy a large number of other gadgets with GPS as a built in feature. Some GPS PDAs can have a GPS module plugged in to them, and used in cars, and an increasing number of cell phones have GPS as a standard feature. On the whole, although these devices have GPS built in, it is not of the same standard as a dedicated system, and wile it may help you know where you are, it will not provide such accurate data or be able to plan routes on the go as well as one of the custom systems from Garmin or Magellan.

At the top end of the list of auto navigation GPS systems, there are a number of fantastic options available. Many of the high end GPS auto navigation systems include a range of features to make getting around as simple and convenient as possible.

Aside from the standard information about maps and positions, these GPS systems can also provide information about local amenities such as gas stations, motels, and even speed control cameras in certain countries. More expensive GPS auto navigation systems come with the ability to upload additional map systems so they can be used in different countries, and through the use of local radio services, provide comprehensive traffic information to the driver wherever in the world he is.

Whether you want a simple auto navigation GPS system to help you avoid the traffic problems in your home town, or are a cross country driver who needs the long distance planning flexibility for getting from a-to-b as efficiently as possible, there is a GPS system available that will suit your needs.

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GPS Systems - Why You Should Consider Turning Your PDA Into A Bluetooth GPS Receiver

Here's a really simple way to use GPS without really spending much: Bluetooth GPS receiver.

Bluetooth technology is the latest thing to arrive at the electronics industry, and it is logical that the next step that manufacturers would attempt would be to invent a Bluetooth GPS receiver to add to our constantly growing hoard of electronic gears. The manner in which Bluetooth technology operates is based on the concept of no wires. It seamlessly gets in touch things like a mobile phone and a PDA without being forced to deal with annoying wires.

A Bluetooth GPS receiver essentially converts your PDA into a GPS receiver. This isn't a new concept; however previously, to be able to achieve this, you'd have to have a compact flash slot or other type of wiring configuration to attach the transformation add-on device and the personal digital assistant together. But today thanks to Bluetooth technology, you will be able to easily convert your mobile phone or your personal digital assistant to a GPS receiver with no special wiring necessity.

Making your personal digital assistant into a Bluetooth GPS receiver is simple now that we have wireless technology that doesn't obstruct our mobility or comfort of use. All you require is an expansion slot for a memory card which will store your maps for you and not take up valuable space on your unit. Bluetooth technology truly benefits us while using these devices as vehicle navigation aids. Wireless connectivity lets you place the GPS receiver in a spot that has got a clear view of the sky, while the personal digital assistant could be held or mounted for optimum screen visibility and comfortable access to menu screens.

While making your personal digital assistant into a Bluetooth GPS receiver, preferably it's a big advantage to have it already as GPS capable. If that is ensured, your compact flash slot is left alone free to store supplementary information like maps that include not just directions, but points of interest in addition. Points of interest could be hotels, eating places, petrol station, and attractions for the sites you'll be visiting. If your personal digital assistant isn't capable of turning into a Bluetooth GPS receiver, you will be able to purchase an adapter which will get into your flash drive or other slot and make capable of being used as a navigation aid.

We have several electronic equipments that we use nowadays that make our life more comfortable. It only makes common sense that we attempt to get as many uses from these equipments as possible which is why making your PDA into a Bluetooth GPS receiver is a really good idea. At least it's one fewer gadget to carry about!

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GPS Auto Tracker - Definition of GPS Systems

Before the arrival of the General Positioning System (GPS) technology, having a trip was certainly the most daunting experience in our life. For instance, it was perfectly acceptable to see a situation where someone was driving his car, another one was looking at the map to find the right direction, quite funny! Nowadays, this situation is obsolete and ridiculous for GPS systems have drastically changed the way we used to deal with route finding during a trip. Indeed by just installing a GPS device in your car, you can accurately and safely get the right direction.

Usually when someone mentions GPS, he is referring to the GPS receiver even if the GPS architecture is actually more complex than this small device installed in your car. In short, GPS systems are a cohort of 27 satellites rolling around the center of the Earth. Only 24 satellites are fully functional while the remaining ones are just used for storage purposes. The military industry pioneered the technology before being used for general purpose by the public.

Each GPS satellite powered by the Sun rotates around the center of the Earth completes a distance of about 12,000 miles which is equal to 19,300 kilometers. The actual trajectories of these satellites are made so that at least four satellites are available in the space at any time. The GPS receiver is responsible of finding these available satellites, working out its distance to these satellites and finding its position. This process makes use of a mathematical model called trilateration.

The GPS signals are hindered by weather conditions. Nowadays, there are many research projects aiming at finding ways around this issue in order to increase the correctness of GPS systems. Having located the satellites, the triliteration is used to work out its distance and reduce these errors.

Briefly speaking, GPS systems are used for several purposes mainly as guiding aid. The user simply needs to input his final destination and the GPS receiver will do the rest of the job. GPS systems can also be used for tracking purposed as it is noticed in the automobile industry.

The GPS technology is also used for many other purposes. For instance, in the automobile industry, GPS systems are used to deter car thieves. Private investigators are also making use of the GPS technology in order to monitor a cheating wife. The GPS technology is also extensively used in the military industry as it was pioneered by the army. Some military usages include navigation, target tracking, missile and weapon guidance, search and rescue lost soldiers and acknowledgement and map creation. The possibility to keep track of a vehicle position every time is an appealing feature of the GPS technology. Other systems can furthermore keep track of a driver. This feature is of great help to anxious parents who are concerned about their children's ability to safely drive.

Another use of the GPS for civilian purpose is to help prevent civilian GPS guidance from being used in an enemy's military or improvised weaponry, the US Government controls the export of civilian receivers. A US-based manufacturer cannot generally export a GPS receiver unless the receiver contains limits restricting it from functioning when it is simultaneously at an altitude above 18 kilometers and traveling at over 515 m/s.

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Decoding the Different Magellan GPS Systems

If you are searching for a handheld GPS system or portable car GPS system, then you will want to look at the Magellan GPS systems that are currently available. Magellan global positioning systems come in a wide range of styles and with a wide variety of features. You can literally find portable Magellan GPS navigation systems for just about any need!

The Magellan Maestro series offers a range of GPS systems for your vehicle. This line features both touch screen and voice activated units. Some of the Maestro models have a QuickSpell feature that allows you to type in a few letters of your destination. The Magellan GPS system then brings up your destination and maps out your route quickly and simply. Some of the best Magellan global positioning system GPS models in the Maestro line even have AAA travel information built in to their databases.

The other line of Magellan GPS systems that offers systems for your vehicle is the Magellan RoadMate series. This Magellan global positioning system series features traffic monitoring and long battery life. If you are looking for a cheap portable GPS, then consider the GPS RoadMate 700 model. This small, affordable model offers live traffic updates and a touch screen for your convenience. If the GPS RoadMate 700 is not affordable enough for you, consider the smaller Magellan GPS RoadMate 300. Both of these Magellan GPS navigation systems include turn by turn voice guidance. This means that as you drive, the GPS will tell you where to turn.

Besides models to use in your car, Magellan also makes GPS models that you can hold in your hand. For instance, The Magellan Triton 300 offers you the chance to take Magellan portable GPS navigation in your hand. This makes it easy to navigate when traveling in large cities where you may not be in your car. These models also beat traditional guidance gear when traveling in the wilderness. These portable Magellan GPS products are waterproof so you can take them with you wherever you go. Even if you accidentally submerge them, they will still work. If you are looking for a cheap handheld GPS, consider the Magellan Triton 200, a slightly less sophisticated model with a lower price tag.

Finally, if you are looking to buy Magellan global positioning systems GPS models that can be used both in your car for automobile GPS tracking or off the beaten path for wilderness treks, then consider the Magellan Crossover GPS model. This is a pocket-sized model that shows both accurate traffic readings and trail information such as the position of bodies of water. You can use this one GPS system to both get you to your destination and help you navigate once you arrive.

When you are looking to purchase a new system, be sure to check Magellan GPS ratings before you make a decision. You may find that the particular feature you need in your GPS model is rated better with one specific unit. Once you find the Magellan GPS system that best meets your needs and has good ratings, it is time to make a purchase!

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Where You Can Buy GPS Tracking Systems From

Are you interested in having GPS tracking capabilities installed in your cell phone or one of your vehicles? If you are, you will need to have a GPS tracking system installed in your phone or in your vehicle. When it comes to getting the needed GPS tracking system, you may be wondering exactly where you can get your system from. In all honesty, it depends.

Once you have decided that you would like to have GPS tracking activated in your vehicle or on your cell phone, your first thought may be to run to your local electronic store or start shopping online. Of course this is possible to do, but you may first want to find a GPS tracking company to do business with. A GPS tracking company is the company which records and monitors all of your whereabouts, as well as makes all coordinates available for you to view, often in real time formats. What you may not know is that many GPS tracking companies like their clients to use certain GPS tracking systems. For that reason, it may be a good idea to first examine GPS tracking companies before you start examining GPS tracking systems.

If the GPS tracking company you wants to do business with has a preference as to which GPS tracking systems are used, you will want to see if the company in question has GPS tracking systems available for purchase. If so, you will want to think about making your GPS tracking system purchase from that company. It is not uncommon for customers to be offered discounts for not only agreeing to do business with a GPS tracking company, but also for making their GPS tracking systems purchases from there as well. Also, when it comes to repairs or technical support, you may find a number of benefits to doing business with just one company.

If you find a GPS tracking company that doesn't have a particular preference as to which GPS tracking systems can be used, you will want to find a company to do business with. Many GPS tracking systems can be purchased from local stores, as well as online. Even if your intended GPS tracking company does not require that you purchase a particular GPS tracking system, you may want to think about seeing if they, the company in question, sells GPS tracking systems. If they do, you may at least want to see what GPS tracking systems they have available for sale, if any. Of course, you don't have to make a purchase from them, but it may be worth your time to take just a few minutes to examine their online website or speak with a company representative.

In short, when it comes to examining GPS tracking systems, it is advised that you examine the GPS tracking company you are interested in doing business with, to see if they have any preferences. After that has been determined, you will also want to keep price and quality in mind, when examining GPS tracking systems to find the one or ones that you would like to purchase.

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The Basics of GPS Navigation Systems

Global Positioning System navigation tools are more commonly known as GPS units. The GPS acts as the new form of the old compass, except the GPS can do a whole lot more than point you north. Using satellites which have been specially sent into space, the GPS can tell you exactly what your position is on the planet. The clever little gadget can reveal your longitude, latitude and even altitude. The special satellite system allows reception in most weather conditions.

When navigating by airplane, automobile or ship, the technology behind the GPS has come to play a central role in modern day travel. Car navigation GPS units make it possible to find your way around complex areas by way of satellite positioning. A digital map on the unit's screen inside your car shows you the best possible route, often with voice prompts to accompany the visual aid. Motorcycle mounted GPS navigation has also become popular, especially for motorcycle touring. When it comes to seafaring and sports out at sea, GPS tracking devices can show themselves to be very handy indeed. With the aid of a GPS fish finder, fishing becomes a lot more rewarding. The GPS technology has even been adopted by cycle tourists or long distance cyclists who wish to track their position and altitude as well as timing, speed and other data. Another popular use of GPS in in golf, where a special golf GPS allows golfers to tee off with a greater knowledge of what lies ahead on the course.

Scientific and geographic fields also benefit from using GPS. The precise information made available by a GPS locater means that cartographers and land surveyors have found an irreplaceable tool in the GPS. Earthquakes and other natural disasters such as cyclones and tsunamis can now be monitored by GPS assisted methods, improving the accuracy and efficiency of those working to warn people of such events in time to prevent serious injuries or loss of life.

The GPS technology many take for granted today was developed by the United States Defense Department. In the beginning the system was called the Navigation Signal Timing and Ranging Global Positioning System (NAVSTAR GPS). In 1978 the first GPS satellite was launched, and with the successful development of the system there have been several more satellites launched since then. At the moment there are more than half a dozen GPS satellites orbiting the earth. The American government pays for the expensive maintenance programs necessary for the upkeep of the satellites, yet the GPS service is available for use by the public through privately owned GPS units such as those mentioned above.

New functions, as well as more dependable and improved accuracy of GPS units became a reality in 2005 thanks to the launch of GPS satellites with improved capabilities. Extra signals have already been provided for the public by the new satellites, and in the time to come it can be expected that the system will grow and improve further.

Learn more about the basics of GPS Navigation Systems!

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Gps Navigation System - What Are GPS Navigation Systems?

GPS (Global Positioning System) are simply maps that guide you to different unfamiliar places; the only difference is that it is an electronic device with many more features other than just notifying you, where you are.

GPS technology has come a long way in the area of navigation services. It is a highly useful gadget and a huge number of people across the globe have started to discover the advantages of this incredible device. In case you don't have one yet, it's high time that you learn about GPS navigation systems.

Global positioning systems (GPS) are at present connected to 29 satellites. These satellites send out signals that are received by the devices. These signals are decoded by the receivers, which in turn allow the users to find out their exact location, where are they heading and at what speed and time.

Previously GPS was designed strictly for military use, sometime during the mid 1960s. However, 30 years later, these have evolved to be the leading navigation device not only for the military but also for the common man.

Road Navigation:

In today's world where our busy life demands us to commute to different places and that too fast, having a GPS system is a must. The major benefits of using such a device are quite obvious. You no longer need to ask people for directions and also avoid the problem of getting lost while going to an unknown location as your GPS will guider your way to the your destination and back, thus saving a significant amount of your precious time.

There are wide varieties of GPS units that are made available to you on the market. Choosing the right GPS for yourself calls for some research on your part, so that you can choose one that is likely to suit your needs the best. The cheaper devices are small and can be plugged and unplugged when needed. Such gadgets require you to master their features in order to use them effectively.

The expensive GPS units are much more equipped and possess many more features than the basic ones. These high-end gadgets come with digital display that makes it easier for the drivers to figure out where they are and where they are approaching. These gadgets also tell them about the traffic condition of the roads they are driving on. Some gadgets also have an additional 'voice prompt' feature. This particular feature makes it even easier for the driver, as they can concentrate on driving while the gadget reads out the instructions to them. These units are much easier to use and can be manipulated as desired.

What is more interesting to know is that GPS units are not restricted to navigation function only. They can also be used as tracking devices. Many mobile phone companies today are using this technology in their products. This feature in mobile phones helps to locate people in case they are missing or to locate a cell phone if it is lost.

GPS technology is also used in radio beacons especially in PLBs, to track individuals in distress.

After having gone through this article, you must have got a fair idea about how useful a GPS device is. Therefore, in case you are still thinking whether to buy a GPS for yourself or not, I'd suggest getting one right away. Having a GPS is not only time efficient but also makes your overall travelling experience a better one.

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How Were GPS Systems Developed?

GPS Navigation Systems technology was originally developed by the United States Department of Defense and was meant for military use to keep track of enemies and know their position at all times. Tracking technology has been around for quite some time actually - since World War II to be exact.

Navigator GPS design is based partly on ground-based radio navigation systems developed in the early 1940's that were used in World War II. These systems were named LORAN and Decca Navigator and were focused on knowing where the enemy was so they could either attack or retreat depending on the size of the forces.

Additional inspiration for modern day GPS systems and GPS handhelds came when Sputnik was launched by the Soviet Union in 1957. A team of scientists monitored Sputnik's radio transmissions and discovered that because of the Doppler Effect, the frequency of the signal being transmitted was high as the satellite approached and lower as it moved away. The Doppler Effect is the change in frequency and wave length of a wave as it is perceived by an observer moving relative to the source of the waves.

This team of scientists that was observing Sputnik's radio transmissions soon realized that since they knew their exact location on the globe, they could pin point where the satellite was along its orbit by measuring the Doppler distortion. This was groundbreaking and very exciting for the military at the time. This technology is used in radar laser detectors too.

The United States Navy used the first satellite navigation system called Transit. It was first successfully test in 1960 and was quite mind-boggling for everyone in the military. When the Navy tested Transit, they did so hoping for some quite specific results. Using a constellation of five satellites, they found that the system could provide a navigational fix approximately once per hour. Today's GPS navigation systems like the Garmin Nuvi GPS use as many as twelve satellites to lock on for instant positioning fixes.

In 1967, the Navy developed the Timation satellite which proved the ability to place accurate clocks in space. This is a technology that the GPS navigation system relies on. In the 1970's, the ground-based Omega Navigation System, based on signal phase comparison, became the first world-wide radio navigation system. This was the foundation and building block of today's GPS Portables.

In February of 1978, the first experimental Block-I GPS satellite was launched into space and the development of modern-day GPS systems began. These original satellites were initially made by Rockwell International. Now, the satellites we use for GPS are manufactured by Lockheed Martin.

In 1983, Soviet interceptor aircraft shot down a civilian airliner flight KAL 007 as it flew in restricted Soviet airspace. This heinous act killed all 269 people on board - all of whom were civilians. Shortly thereafter, President Ronald Reagan announced that the GPS system would be made available for civilian use once it was completed. Because of this horrible act on the part of the Soviets, developed of the GPS navigation system was stepped up more than it ever had been before and experimentations began in earnest.

By 1985, ten more experimental Block-I satellites had been launched into space to validate the concept of GPS and in 1989; the first modern Block-II satellite was launched. By December of 1993, the GPS system achieve initial operational capability and just a month later, a complete constellation of 24 satellites were in orbit with full operational capability declared by NAVSTAR in April of 1995.

A year after that, President Bill Clinton realized the importance of GPS to civilian users as well as military users which prompted him to issue a policy directive that declared GPS to be a dual-use system meaning civilian as well as military. He established an Interagency GPS Executive Board that was responsible for managing GPS as an asset of the United States. With this came the commercial brands such as Garmin Nuvi GPS.

Plans began in earnest to improve upon the system for the everyday user of the navigation system. An announcement was made that the government was going to upgrade the GPS system with two new civilian signals that would lead towards enhanced user accuracy and reliability particularly with respect to aviation safety. Also, GPS handhelds would be made.

Since those early years, the GPS technology has evolved into something that the everyday public uses and uses with amazing accuracy and reliability. What began as a way to keep track of our enemies is now used to help guide us along the way during trips and excursions. Such companies as TomTom, Magellan and Garmin Nuvi GPS have made a business out of this.

In fact, the GPS system we have today has many applications including map making, land surveying, and commerce uses. Plus, because of the way a GPS can pinpoint times with amazing accuracy, scientists are able to use it in many applications including the study of earthquakes and the synchronization of telecommunications networks. Who knew that golfers would be able to use a GPS handheld to determine the distance to the flag.

New uses for GPS systems are constantly being discovered and the way that technology is always evolving, we are sure that even more new uses will come about for the GPS systems. They will probably always be finding new uses too as the system is constantly improved upon. Next time your on the highway, safely look over at the car next to you and see if it might contain a Garmin Nuvi GPS.

Richard Alexander along with his wife, Stella, operate http://www.BestGPSRadarDetectors.com which sells GPS brands like Garmin Nuvi GPS and Escort Radar Detectors.

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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.

Discover why Marine GPS Software is Good for Marine Navigation at http://gps-navigators.com/marine-gps-software.html

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