GPS Equipment & Flight Tracker GPS

GPS And How It Works

2009-02-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

GPS stands for Global Positioning System, a satellite navigation system with twenty-four satellites in orbit. These satellites were put in place by the United States Department of Defense for military uses, and were called NAVSTAR. The first satellite was launched in 1978 and the twenty-fourth and last satellite was finally in place in 1994. In 1980 NAVSTAR was made available to the general public for commercial use.

GPS works 24 hours a day in any weather. The satellites orbit the earth twice a day in a specific orbit that is about 12,000 miles above us. In orbit, the satellites travel as fast as 7,000 miles an hour. As they are orbiting, they transmit information to receivers on earth. The receivers use this information to calculate the user's location. This calculation is made by determining the difference between the time a transmission was made and when the receiver received it. This is then used to calculate the distance and the position is displayed on the receiver.

For a receiver to calculate a latitude and longitude position is to receive information from three satellites. To calculate latitude, longitude and altitude a receiver must be able to receive information from four or more satellites. After position is known the GPS can then tell the user information about speed, trip distance, the distance to a desired destination, sunrise and sunset times, bearing and other information.

While in orbit, the satellites are powered by solar energy. They also have backup batteries that are used in the event of no solar power such as an eclipse. The energy is used to power small rockets on the satellites that keep them in the proper orbit. At any one time only about 50 watts of power or less is used to transmit information. The satellites are designed to last about ten years, and the U.S. Department of Defense is constantly making and launching replacement satellites. Each satellite is about 2,000 pounds and seventeen feet across when the solar panels are out.

GPS receivers are generally accurate within 15 meters. Other than investing in a receiver there are no fees or other equipment required to access the GPS signal. If very accurate readings are needed, Differential Global Position Systems (DGPS) will provide accuracy within three to five meters. The United States Coast Guard operates the most popular DGPS.

Two power signals are transmitted and are referred to as L1 and L2. The L1 frequency is used for civilian purposes. These signals are relatively low power signals and travel by line of sight, so they can go through clouds, glass, and plastic, but not solid objects like buildings or mountains. In every transmission the satellite sends three types of information, its pseudorandom code, ephemeris data and almanac data. The pseudorandom code is an I.S. code that identifies which satellite the information is being sent from. Ephemeris data tells the receiver where the satellite should be at any time of the day, and almanac data sends information about the status of the satellite, the current date and the time. The almanac data is the part that is essential for determining the user's position.

Chris Simons is a prolific freelance writer. You are welcomed to visit http://gps.theconsumerguide.net, for more information on GPS units and tracking systems.

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The High Value of GPS Fleet Tracking

2008-12-18T03:16:00.001-08:00

GPS tracking systems have been used in vehicles for many years. They were originally used in automobiles as a deterrent to theft, and for many years, GPS tracking systems in vehicles have assisted in finding lost or vehicles. In many instances, a GPS system was the last hope of finding a vehicle.

In recent years, many companies that have a fleet of vehicles have recognized the importance of these incredible GPS systems and have had them installed in their fleet vehicles, not only as a safety precaution, but also as a way to improve efficiency and driver performance.

Companies need to know exactly where their vehicles are in order to set up and maintain a productive delivery schedule. Too much time is wasted finding a delivery address, or locating a driver who has turned off their radio or phone.

A GPS tracking system will allow employers to find where any vehicle is at any given time, wherever it is. Shipping companies find this to be a particularly important feature because they not only can they create a better delivery schedule, they can also schedule more deliveries in any given day. It is incredible how technology has progressed. You can find the location of any truck by simply clicking the mouse of your computer.

A GPS tracking system also helps in reducing operating costs and keep you deliveries flowing evenly. When you know where your vehicles are and when they are scheduled back, you can create a shipping schedule that is guaranteed to be productive and efficient.

GPS systems have always been an incredibly effective way of locating vehicles, especially if it had broken down in a dangerous or remote area. However, today, GPS tracking in fleet vehicles have become an important tool in creating and maintaining a productive and efficient shipping department.

Not only can a GPS tracking system promote safety by monitoring the driving speed of the vehicle, it can also locate a vehicle if it has broken down even if the engine is off. Many drivers who have broken down in the middle of nowhere have found these incredible devices to be lifesavers. GPS tracking systems minimize the down time of your fleet vehicles and allow you to maintain a more structured work environment.

GPS tracking systems were originally developed to locate lost or stolen vehicles. When you use them on your fleet vehicles, you will always know where each vehicle is. If the unthinkable happens, and a vehicle is missing, you can locate within seconds, sending emergency vehicles to the location. In times like these, seconds can be critical.

GPS tracking systems in fleet vehicles can assist in routing difficulties, which in turn can save literally of dollars in wasted fuel per year by providing an alternate routes.

These incredible systems can also assist in fewer repairs and can even be used to reduce you insurance costs.

When you are in the delivery business, you know that delivering the shipment on time is critical. When you install a GPS tracking system in your fleet vehicles, you are basically assuring your customers that their shipment will arrive on time. If there is a detour or delay, you will be able to contact your customer and advise them of it ahead of time, thereby providing excellent customer service.

However, GPS tracking does not only provides great customer service, it will also assist in building your reputation as a dependable carrier and your customers are more likely to refer you to their associates.

There are no disadvantages to using a GPS tracking system for your fleet vehicles; it is simply one strategy that you cannot pass up.

Peter Geisheker is a marketing expert that provides marketing solutions for CyntrX, the leading GPS fleet tracking solutions provider.

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The GPS Revolution

2008-12-17T03:16:00.000-08:00

Never heard of GPS? I doubt it. The word has become so well used as the GPS revolution continues unabated. In my opinion GPS is right up there with fire, the wheel, flight, cell phones and ATMS as the most useful inventions. And prices are expected to fall further, by 20% in 2008, according to leading manufacturer Garmin.

A grid of 31 of the nearly 900 active satellites in space are used for the Global Positioning System. They transmit microwaves that allow GPS receivers on the ground to triangulate their location, speed, direction and time. Russia is getting its own new version ready. The second generation of Glonass (Global Navigational Satellite System) already has 14 satellites orbiting earth and it will be operational by 2010 with a further 10 satellites completing coverage of our planet. Like the USA, Glonass was initially used for USSR military reconnaissance but a recent Presidential decree has given civilians full access to its signals.

Shipments of mobile phones with built-in GPS capability are expected to more than quadruple by 2011, according to a report released by research firm iSupply - from 109 million units in 2006 to 444 million units by 2011. By late 2007 GPS leader Garmin had introduced software that teams with a range of gps enabled smartphones to turn them into Garmin navigators useable in North America or Europe. The Garmin Mobile XT offers preloaded maps on a microSD card and includes access to dynamic content like premium real-time traffic alerts and fuel prices, but does not require monthly fees or subscriptions of any kind. It costs only US$99.

Around the same time, phone company Nokia paid $8 billion for map data provider NavTeq, a move that will no doubt spur the growth of cell phone- based GPS systems at the probable expense of portable and vehicle mapping devices. This move followed close on the heels of European car navigation maker, TomTom, paying $2.8 billion for digital mapping company teleAtlas. Like Garmin, Nokia is working on a phone that would allow a user to tag photos with their geographic coordinates, allowing them to position the photos on a map on social networking sites.

Map sites are busy sites. The MapQuest Web site counts 54 million users per month and receives 6,000 emails a week, many commenting on route accuracy. AnyTrack has a 2 ounce gizmo that measures a mere 2.36" by 1.85" by 0.8" which can be used to track cargo. With cargo theft in America totalling some $ 15 billion a year, knowing where your goods are could be a wonderful thing. Whether you see it as good or bad, GPS manufacturers are apparently able to retrieve data from your GPS unit - information like speed, location, time of day etc and give it to authorities if they are forced to. Interesting fodder for court cases.

Bladerunner even has a children's GPS jacket which can be used to keep tabs on their whereabouts on, say, a snowboarding, hiking or biking adventure. Parents can even input the GPS information into Google Earth and track their child's location in real time. You can also "geofence" the device to trigger an alert when the child leaves a certain area the parent has established. Could be useful for older citizens with dimentia problems too. Just have $500 ready as well as $20 a month satellite tracking charge.

In Sydney Australia, 4,000 buses are being equipped (2008) with GPS devices that will link them to city traffic lights. Any bus running late will get priority at traffic lights. Mussolini would have loved that for his trains. Still in Australia and, in a world first, Aussie rules football players have been rigged up with GPS devices that allow their coaches to track how far they run, what speed they run at and the hits they absorb during the game. An Australian drugs researcher raised at an international sports ethics conference in Iceland the idea that athletes could wear a GPS bracelet or watch or carry a GPS phone.The idea was to avoid misunderstandings about missed drug tests as athletes have to provide details of their planned movements to testing authorities up to three months beforehand.

In the UK, you can buy a Satski GPS unit that can create an interactive piste map that can be used to guide, track , and record your movements on the ski slopes. The Satski can also help you find the best slopes for your skill level and help you improve by recording your average and max speeds, distance travelled, and altitude information.

Also in Europe you can buy MirrorPilot which places a small map in your rear view mirror.

The Batwa pygmies in the Democratic Republic of Congo are using GPS devices when they go into the forest to hunt and gather. They can record the exact location of their hunting grounds, sacred trees and important rivers. Another aim is to stop illegal logging by proving the existence of trees on certain land.

The US Marines are getting 3,000 GPS units for parachutists. Soldiers plummeting towards earth will soon have the advantage of GPS navigation with a Heads Up Display that will help improve landing accuracy and allow for target zones to be easily changed on the fly.

Why NDrive has released a Personal Navigation Device that has an inbuilt breathalyser so you can tell whether you're over the limit or not. Sexually violent predators in Colorado may soon be required to wear global positioning systems as they already are in El Paso County in USA.

A California teenager contested a speeding ticket (but failed) for doing 62mph in a 45mph zone, since a GPS system fitted to his Toyota Celica appeared to show he was actually within the limit.

Police in USA have attached a GPS device to a suspect's car and tracked it to another burglary scene which allowed them to make an arrest. In another American police case, one man has been charged with robbery after he was tracked by a satellite navigation system he had stolen which inadvertently alerted police to his exact whereabouts.

In Japan, moves were being made to equip key defence personnel with GPS enabled phones after one was caught getting too much lavish entertainment from a contractor.

The negatives of this wonderful technology? A man on stalking charges in 2007 apparently attached a GPS device to his victim's car and used a tracking information service to monitor her movements.

Thousands of New York cabbies struck twice in late 2007 because they believed the GPS units mandated by the city for all cabs invaded their privacy. Over in India calls were being made to install GPS in taxis there so women working late in call centres would be safer.

Apparently 100 million cell phones in the USA and another 250 million globally rely on GPS technology for precision timing. Let's hope the GPS system doesnt get jammed or goes down for any reason. The USA looks like relying on its old Loran system (World War Two vintage) ramped up as eLoran to be a backup system for GPS.

Czech lorry drivers as well as British and no doubt other nationalities have been known to throw caution to the wind and slavishly follow their GPS system down incredibly narrow lanes till they get stuck. The idea would be to keep common sense right alongside your GPS unit.

Some people are reporting more dead car batteries because GPS units were left on.

Despite the negatives, GPS is well and truly here to stay with manufacturers claiming we users are asking for more and more uses for the technology. My two favourites have to be the units for blind people that can talk to them and lead them to a nearby bank, coffee shop or other Point Of Interest (POI) and you can use audio guides on your GPS unit to be your personal tour guide as you travel the sights of a city of region - Casanova, the Catalan capital's most stylish hotel, offers guests a hand-held GPS iTour to experience Barcelona's top cultural attractions. Key points of interest, such as Gaudi's Sagrada Familia and La Pedrera as well as the Boqueria market, museums, restaurants and shops, are included in the iTour.

Graham Kelly runs The Best GPS Site at http://www.bestgpssite.com and is a real fan of this technology.

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The Best GPS System - How Do You Figure This Out?

2008-12-16T03:16:00.000-08:00

Finding the best GPS system is like buying the perfect car. It's all relative -- to you! The perfect car for me would have to be able to survive two rowdy kids, a dog, sometimes two cats, and a wife who routinely picks up junk (Oh, excuse me, they're called collectibles) on the side of the road. It would have to be roomy and maintenance free. For someone else, the perfect car would only need two seats, a rag top, and be able to do 120 mph easily.

In order to find the best GPS system, you have to first understand what they generally do and what are the usual features, then define what you want it for.

By GPS systems, I'm specifically talking about the after-market car variety. You know, the kind you see perched on people's windshields at the grocery store. I'm not talking about the in dash kind that come with some cars, nor am I considering the hand-held varieties you would take on a long hike. The after-market systems are usually called portable GPS receivers, or systems, and that's what I'll call them here.

Basically, all of these portable GPS receivers do exactly the same thing. They show you where you are on an electronic map, and they tell you how to get where you want to go, be it down the street or somewhere across the country.

All GPS systems work off of the same network of satellites that ring the earth, and most of the portable ones even use the same types of receivers. So, the differences between makes and models are not in how they work or what they do, fundamentally, but in the bells and whistles that come with them.

Virtually all GPS systems come with the following:

Voice prompts that tell you where to turn
Touch screen
Large database of "Points of Interest" (locations of hospitals, ATMs, McDonalds, etc.)
Choice between 2D "map view" and 3D "bird's eye" views
Automatic route calculation
Choice between shortest and fastest routes
Come preloaded with maps of the 48 states

The main optional features to consider when buying a GPS system are these:

Does it actually say the names of the street you need to turn on as you approach it?
Do you need a widescreen version (4.3-inches diagonally as opposed to 3.5-inches)?
Do you need maps of Canada, Mexico, and/or Europe?
Does it support Bluetooth technology, which allows you to use your GPS system in conjunction with your cell phone to make hands-free calls? (Which essentially makes it a windshield mounted version of those little ear clips people walk around with.)
Can you enter multiple routes into the unit and have it calculate the best route to get to all of them? Say you were in an unfamiliar city and you wanted to go to the cleaners, the grocery store, the movies, and a local dentist all on one trip. Could the GPS system calculate the shortest possible route to get to all of these?
Does it have real-time traffic and weather report capability, and can it use that information to re-route you around traffic jams?
Can you use your device to listen to music (mp3) or to look at digital pictures?
How big is the Points of Interest database?

There are a few other features that major manufacturers include. Magellan, for instance, has hooked up with AAA to offer their Tourguide information actually on the GPS itself. Tom Tom has this neat feature where users can make map changes and upload those to Tom Tom's computer database which makes them available for everyone else. And Garmin is coming out with a new unit in 2008 that will learn to recognize your voice so you can enter commands by speaking instead of typing on the touch screen.

So, in order to find the best GPS device for you, you need to first decide which of these optional features are necessary, and which you might like if you can afford it.

You can get a basic GPS system for under $200. The Garmin nuvi 200, for example, has all of the basic features I listed above. It comes preloaded with regional maps (not the entire United States). If you want to spend slightly more, how about the Tom Tom One, 3rd edition, which at the time of these writing (early '08) costs slightly less than $200 at Amazon and comes with real time traffic capability and Tom Tom's MapShare (where you can uploaded changes).

Virtually all of the Magellan Maestro series is currently in the $200 to $400 range. You can get the more basic 3210 for around $250, which has millions of points of interest and, of course, the AAA Tourbook, or you can spend about $100 more and get the 4250, which includes all that the 3210 does and adds Bluetooth, voice recognition, and real-time traffic.

One of the most popular units is the Garmin nuvi 350, which does all the nuvi 200 does, but includes Garmin's "Travel Kit", mp3 capability, picture viewer, world travel clock, calendar, and more.

Deciding can be difficult, but to help out, I've created a website where I've collected all of this information plus links to appropriate pages on Amazon. There you can easily compare makes and models side by side and figure out which is the best GPS system for you. You can get to it from my link below.

Don't put off buying one, though! GPS systems are great. Once you have your first one, you'll wonder how in the world you got along without it.

Lee Cole is a GPS enthusiast who has spent countless hours learning about and using GPS devices. He runs an informative website called http://www.hotgpsdeals.com There you can get more information to help you compare GPS systems.

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Sat Navs - Ensuring Safety

2008-12-15T03:16:00.000-08:00

Satellite Navigation systems offer geo-spatial positioning with wide global coverage. Scientifically known as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), it ensures electronic receivers to inform about the longitude, latitude and altitude of the users. It tells you about the exact location where you are standing at that particular time. This is done with the time signals which are generally transmitted by satellite radios. The NAVSTAR Global Positioning System by the United States is the only operational GNSS right now. Russia is also marking its entry in the field with GLONASS. Galileo positioning system is scheduled to be operational by 2010. It is said to be the next generation GNSS by European Union.

The first Sat Nav device was installed by the US defense forces. Earlier, it was mainly used in the military applications but now they are used as car accessories and come pre-loaded with mobile phones. They broadcast the signal that informs about the position of the satellite and at the same time records the time of the transmitted signal. This detail is transmitted in a data format and is applied as code i.e. the time reference. They are now used with great ease and simplicity. Mostly used in cars, they are recognised as personal travel assistants.

They come with user-friendly features like turn-by-turn voice directions and highlighted points of interest, for example, petrol pumps, ATMs and restaurants. To avoid any error related to position, time and velocity, the satellite navigation receivers use Kalman filtering techniques. The sat Nav enabled devices are advantageous. They are used for varied navigational purposes like searching, surveying and in the field of geophysical sciences. Different well known brands such as Road Angel, Garmin and TomTom have introduced latest sat Nav gadgets with customer-friendly menus; wide touch screens and safety camera locations. These devices are helping in precise mapping of locations.

Raina Kelsey is an expert author, and writes about latest gadgets.
Sat Nav Devices
TomTom Go 720
Garmin Nuvi 300

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Samsung E900 - Experience The Miracle of Music on Handset

2008-12-14T03:15:00.000-08:00

The Samsung E900 camera phone coming with a smooth slide opening mechanism succeeds in grabbing the hearts of beauty loving users with its attractive features. The mobile phone, with stunning touch sensitive keys, has a large 262,000 colour display that could be viewed when the handset is in the slide-closed position. The mobile phone has a screen resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and is capable of providing the user with a high definition display. The E900 model handset comes with a measurement of 93 x 45 x 16.5 mm and weight of 96 grams that makes it light weight handset that is easy and comfortable for the use to hold in hand and slip into pocket. This user friendly handset comes in a choice of colours including black, silver and gold and has a casing that never fails to attract the eyes.

The Samsung E900 model handset has an internal memory of 80 Mbytes that could be extended by using the swappable MicroSD™ memory card feature. The mobile phone comes with a built-in Bluetooth® connection that makes it easy to connect to any Bluetooth® compatible device. This also provides the user with a wirefree connection. The EDGE technology guaranteed easy transfer of data and makes the downloading three times faster than GPRS.

This model mobile phone from Samsung comes with a 2 megapixel digital camera with a built-in flash technology that ensures the uses of perfect photographic experience. The mobile phone has 80 Mbytes of memory that allows the user to record upto one hour worth of video recording which could be viewed later. & store it for a later viewing. The E900 model handset is an excellent music phone that assures the users of excellent music experience on the handset. This model is capable of playing a MP3, ACC, ACC+, WMA tracks making it really a gift for the music lovers.

Jack Daniel is an expert author and the webmaster of Mobile Phone News. The website having details of Internet Phones and Samsung E900.

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Handheld Portable GPS

2008-12-09T04:20:00.000-08:00

A handheld portable GPS unit is not really what you think it is. In GPS terminology a handheld GPS and a portable GPS are 2 different things. A handheld GPS is a small handheld device like a radio, or a wristwatch with GPS technology. A portable GPS is a unit that you can move from vehicle to vehicle if you do a lot of traveling. Portable meaning it is not permanently mounted in a certain vehicle. That way you won't get lost no matter what city you are in.

Handheld GPS receivers are now available in small units that can fit into your pocket. These units are used by skiers, bikers, hikers, and cross country enthusiasts to track progress, map return routes, save routes for later travel, and many other applications. One of the newest past times of handheld GPS users is geocaching. Geocaching is a treasure hunt using GPS to find and hide treasure containers with others. 21st century treasure hunting. Isn't that cool.

Although these units can be fun, they are also very handy in an emergency. Using Global Positioning System technology you can pinpoint your location in case of an accident, or if you get lost in the wilderness. And they fit easily in a backpack or pocket.

As with any electronic instrument these units are available with many different features. These features include: Map database; Voice activated GPS; WAAS technology, Reflection-less screen; Theft prevention functions; an option for personalized screen icons; and MP3 capability. However a unit around $100 will give you everything you need to do some hiking or backpacking and find your way home.

Different models will vary according to the GPS software and database installed. To facilitate the enjoyment of the interactive GPS unit, all the models have the basic instructions on the display screen. Most handheld GPS models come with instructions that will enable you to hear the information put out as well as read it on the screen.

Personal choice will determine which handheld GPS receiver you choose. Your choice will depend on the type of software and mapping programs that suit your requirements. Also the receiver's size, weight, and choice of internal or external antenna are things that will matter to you. It will depend on what will fit your requirements and your budget. Most units are waterproof or water-resistant and many are shock resistant in case it gets dropped.

These units will provide you with excellent basic GPS navigation whether you are in a car, on a motorcycle, or on foot.

Wayne MacLean is an avid hiker, snowshoeing enthusiast, and loves the outdoors. He is a writer for both online and offline businesses.

http://www.best-gps-info.com/handheld-portable-gps.html

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The TomTom GO 720 Review

2008-12-02T03:16:00.000-08:00

I decided to break down and buy one of the hottest items on the market in 2007, a portable GPS unit. After reviewing different brands, models and such I decided on the TomTom GO 720. I'm not much of a GPS guru - in fact I don't know much about them other than what I researched. Given that, I'll share with you my opinion on the TomTom GO 720.

This is quite a handy little gadget. It's made well, with a rubberized casing that won't easily slip from your fingers and a bright 4.3 inch LCD display. Text on the screen is easy to read. I didn't realize how useful it would be until I set it up and stuck it to my windshield (with the included suction stand). I used it for the first time the following evening. The TomTom took me the same route I would have taken myself - it preferred the highway. When the voice is set to pre-recorded human, you won't hear street names or highway numbers, just "turn so and so after so and so miles/feet". When the unit is set to use the phonetic computerized voice, you'll hear street names, road signs and highway numbers. The computer voice doesn't sound obnoxiously computerized. In fact, it sounds somewhat normal - most of the time.

Other features include speeding alerts, FM-transmitter for your iPod, an anti-glare screen, points of interest, Bluetooth, additional voices and something I learned by researching this article - voice address input. You can speak the address of your destination to your Go 720. This would probably be the most useful basic feature, because admittedly inputing an address through the touch screen is not all that intuitive. The TomTom comes with decent software that lets you control just about every feature of the GPS through your computer. For a nominal fee, the TomTom will redirect you through traffic, point you to the cheapest gas station, give you the weather and even list where traffic cameras are located. Some of these "Plus Services" may be useful to certain owners.

All in all a fantastic little unit that does exactly what it's supposed to do, with a number of cool features that make it a neat toy in addition to a sophisticated navigation device.

TomTom GO 720

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The High Value of GPS Tracking Devices for Fleet Vehicles

2008-12-01T03:16:00.000-08:00

By now, just about everyone has heard of the benefits of GPS tracking devices. Directions and navigations are just two of the many benefits that these incredible devices have to offer. GPS was developed by the military, however when the technology was released to the public, it captured the attention of the world by replacing the need for a map.

GPS tracking has assisted many people who have become lost or in need of assistance. When you are alone, and your vehicle breaks down, it can not only be frightening, it may even be dangerous.

Many car manufacturers now include GPS devices as part of their standard package because of the feeling of safety that it provides.

It was not until recently that business owners realized the potential theft protection that GPS systems could provide especially if the product that they are shipping is valuable.

Within the past decade, businesses that depend on fleet vehicles and large trucks have found that by using GPS systems on their fleet vehicles, their businesses run more cost effectively. However, another use that GPS has is that it is an excellent tool for tracking vehicles that have been stolen.

There are many resources and tools available to business owners; however, none offer the safety and security that a GPS tracking system can. When used as an anti-theft tool, a GPS system has proven time and again that it is the best deterrent against theft of vehicles and their contents.

When you depend on your deliveries, especially those that span over many states, a GPS tracker can give you the peace of mind in knowing that should something happen to your vehicle, it an be located very quickly using high tech satellite tracking.

In the world in which we live, crime is rampant, and many of it crime of opportunity. This means that many criminals do not make plans to steal a truck, however if the opportunity presents itself, the criminal will take it. This is exactly why so many companies rely on GPS tracking for their fleet vehicle.

A GPS tracking system is one of the best deterrents against theft. It is a cost effective way to control shipments and insure that they are delivered on time and if something should happen along the route, law enforcement can pinpoint the location within a matter of feet. This can save a company a lot of time and expense.

Another benefit to using GPS devices in your company vehicles is that many insurance companies will give you a special discount for installing and using them. It is a very popular theft prevention tool that has taken the world by storm mainly because of the high recovery rate of the vehicles. The recovery time for a vehicle equipped with a GPS tracking system is within minutes. Before GPS, it could take weeks or even months to find a stolen vehicle, and the contents would be lost.

Many business owners are hesitant to purchase GPS tracking, especially if they have a lot of vehicles and trucks, or they may feel that theft will never need it. However, when you stop and do the math, you will find that the cost of replacing your vehicle or truck may far exceed the cost of a GPS system especially if big rigs are part of your fleet.

GPS tracking devices can monitor each vehicle with precision. The use of many different satellites that are in orbit around the earth can track and pinpoint any vehicle at any time. With this incredible technology, it is possible to update information on a vehicle within a minute, and in times of crisis, every second counts.

Peter Geisheker is a marketing expert that provides marketing solutions for CyntrX, the leading GPS fleet tracking solutions provider.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Geisheker

What Are GPS Systems and What Are They Good For?

2008-11-28T01:41:00.000-08:00

GPS systems all started out in the army in the year 1970. In the army, many soldiers needed navigation systems to know their directions around other countries. Without this device it would be really hard for them to find their way around. This device has saved much of the soldiers time in war and has also saved them many lives. GPS systems are very powerful devices and are a great navigation system to use to get around. So what exactly are GPS systems?
GPS which stands for global positioning system, according to dictionary.com is: A system of satellites, computers, and receivers that is able to determine the latitude and longitude of a receiver on Earth by calculating the time difference for signals from different satellites to reach the receiver.
GPS systems have gone for beyond just serving the army. They now serve just about everyone. These navigation systems help drivers find there way through city streets and help hikers find their way through the rough terrains of the mountains. They also help pilots find their way around the skies as well as helping mariners find their way around the great sea. The GPS systems technology can help serve anyone in need of it.
GPS systems are especially a great thing to have for men, and I’m sure all women would agree. As everyone knows men don’t ask for directions. If a man is just to cool to ask for directions he could simply use his navigation system and would never get lost and of course would never have to ask for directions again. This saves the time of the wife who always would have to end up asking for directions. If you really think about it, using the GPS to get directions is a form of asking for directions, but shhhh don’t tell any man this.
When you decide to buy a GPS system for yourself, I would recommend any Garmin GPS. Garmin’s are the number one brand name for GPS’s and I’ve heard nothing but good things from people who have bought them. By all means do your research on all different types of GPS systems but at the end you’ll realize that no other navigation system can beat the Garmin brand.

Shakib Nassiri, CEO of SplayTech – For the lowest priced GPS systems or any other consumer electronics product please visit http://www.splaytech.com

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What are GPS Cell Phones?

2008-11-24T01:41:00.000-08:00

Fads come and go. But when it comes to technology, every trend is a worthwhile experience.
Take the case of mobile phones. From the plain call and text features, the cell phone industry has definitely gone a long way.
Today, cell phones are made more innovative by applying technologically advanced applications such as GPS or Global Positioning System. Equipped with this remarkable device, cell phones can now operate beyond their basic functions.
With the GPS system, cell phones can be used as a tracking device that enables people find the right places or even hunt down a relative or friend on his exact location.
GPS or Global Positioning System is a device used to pin down people’s specific location anywhere on earth. The central hub of the system depends on “24 satellites” that move around the earth two times a day.
The identification of certain locations was made possible using fully operational devices that includes a series of receivers and satellites.
The information gathered by the satellites are being transformed back to the earth using exact timing indicators to receivers such as GPS cell phones. In this way, the hunted person’s exact location is identified based on altitude, latitude, and longitude measurements.
Back then, the magnitude of GPS were only utilized in navigational purposes as well as for “land surveying,” and map-making. But since the proliferation of the new technology, the utilization of GPS has significantly increased.
Today, GPS-enabled cell phones are being used beyond their usual features. With the help of GPS, people can now locate new addresses and navigate a new place without the difficulty of turning to your maps every now and then.
With GPS, cell phones can demonstrate the exact areas where to turn right or left. Hence, the need for a true GPS tracking device is lessened as more and more cell phone companies are gradually employing the utilization of GPS.
In fact, it was the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which had instructed various cell phone companies to equip their new mobile phone models with GPS “tracking mechanisms.” The agency said that with GPS-enabled cell phones, the user’s location could easily be tracked within 300 feet anyplace on earth.
This proposal of the FCC had been based on cases where people are using their cell phones to call 911 during emergencies. FCC further explained that the utilization of GPS cell phones would expedite responses to any one who will need such assistance.
However, the initial reactions of most cell phone companies is slightly on the negative side. They believe that using “GPS chips” will only add to the cost of each product. Today, cell phones are literally being given away free when purchased on regular mobile service plans.
Nevertheless, the probability of earning additional incomes were seen by other cell phone companies. They know how information-hungry people are nowadays ever since the Internet technology had dominated the communications industry.
Even if it means egotistical commercial gains, most cell phone companies believe that the utilization of GPS cell phones are important in today’s modern world.
One of the probable profits that the commercial market can gain is the distribution of graphical advertisements on mobile phones with the help of GPS. Hence, it is not surprising if one day, your cell phones will turn into small posters or advertisements notifying you of the latest event in town.
Indeed, with the introduction of GPS cell phone in the market today, people will have to change their units again just to cope up with the ever-changing world of the communication industry.
From 3G or the third generation technology to GPS, cell phones have definitely gone a long way since it was created for a simple call. With these features in your phones, what more can you ask for?

your-cell-phone.com is a free information site that offers articles and resources on Cell Phones. If you want to read or share information on Communication:GPS, you're always welcome!

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Using GPS Tracking to Protect Your Vehicles

2008-11-21T01:41:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that police cars are equipped with GPS tracking theft recovery devices. These items are meant to allow a stolen police car to be found rather easily by simply using GPS tracking technology to locate the car. Then further police are dispatched to the location to apprehend the criminal and recover the car. The good news is that it is possible to use the same technology to protect your car.
GPS tracking is not a very new technology. It has been around since the 1980s, when it first began being developed for the military. It was originally meant to help keep track of troops and movements, as well as create a sophisticated mapping system to help commanders find their way over rough and unknown terrain. Today that same technology is so advanced that it is possible to track in real time and create histories of where the device has been. And GPS technology is available to anyone, and at a fairly reasonable price.
When you use GPS tracking in your car, you receive more than just driving directions in an unfamiliar city. You can also know where your car is. While it is nice to have this information to keep tabs on partying teenagers, it can also help you in the event that your car is stolen. When you have a tracking system, and your car is stolen, you are more likely to get it back relatively unharmed. This is because you can find it immediately, rather than having it discovered in pieces weeks later as part of an illegal car parts ring.
Your GPS tracking system can help you get your car back and have the satisfaction of knowing that the person who stole it is off the streets and headed to jail. You can let the police see where your car is (and where it is headed) and this is an immense help to them. One of the best ways to protect your property is to know where it is. And you can always know where your car is when you have it equipped with GPS tracking.
(c) 2005 Copyright www.spyassociates.com. This article is about: GPS Tracking.

About The Author
Kingston AmadanTo learn more about Spy and Surveillance Products visit http://www.spyassociates.com. Read other related articles at http://spyassociates.blogspot.com/

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Tracking Schoolchildren with RFID Technology

2008-11-13T23:00:00.000-08:00

In a day and age when parents fear for their children's safety, one school district has decided to use modern technology to put those fears to rest. Officials state that efficiency is the main reason for the program, but it is hard to imagine that parental concern did not factor into the equation.

Earlier this month, the Middletown school district in Providence, Rhode Island enacted a pilot program that included putting RFID (radio frequency identification) chips in tags that will be attached to children's schoolbags. This initial trial run will include about 80 children (and their backpacks).

The primary reason for the use of this tracking technology is to track students who take the bus to and from school. The chips will record when students get on and off of the school bus, as well as showing the bus's position as it travels.

The ACLU has already cried foul.

The pilot program was by no means mandatory and parents were informed ahead of time and told who to contact with any questions. Middletown hopes that the program will foster better communication with parents. Parents involved in the pilot will be able go to a website to see when their child got on the bus and to see if the bus will arrive on time.

One official compared the program to programs that let parents check their child's attendance record or to see their child purchased for lunch. (Notice I said to see what the child purchased-there really is no way to know what a child actually ate for lunch.)

And isn't that the point-for all of our sophistication, life is still full of variables. A parent could be checking the website and see that according to the RFID, their child is still in school. At that same moment, the child could be walking through the door, having left the backpack in their classroom.

However, it is also possible that a child could be on a bus that had to take an alternate route because of a traffic accident. The parent who checks the website to see that the bus is going in a different direction can make calls to find out what is going on and be assure that their child is fine.

Article authored by Nancy McCord of McCord Web Design

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Rocky Mountain Tracking in the News

2008-11-12T23:00:00.000-08:00

Word about the benefits of GPS tracking devices is getting around. Rocky Mountain Tracking was consulted for and mentioned in a recent MSN.com article.

The article mentioned some of the reasons that a GPS tracking can help improve business and cut costs.

Safety

Drivers who know that their driving skills are under observation tend to drive more safely. Of course you cannot do anything about what other drivers do, but making sure your employees obey traffic rules will go a long way towards ensuring their safety.

This can bring savings on multiple levels. If your drivers are driving safely, they will be doing what they can not to cause accidents and this will keep your insurance premiums down. Employees who get into accidents need time to recover, so when they drive safely, they can remain on the job.

Discounts

Insurance companies are willing to give anti-theft discounts to owners who have installed GPS tracking devices in their vehicles. If you own a fleet of vehicles, your savings will be multiplied and you will notice the difference in your insurance premiums.

In addition to giving discounts because GPS systems can prevent theft, some insurers are also giving discounts for drivers who drive fewer miles. With a GPS tracking device installed, your drivers will be able to be much more efficient, and likely some will be able to shorten trips. This may make you eligible for a low-mileage discount for some vehicles.

Traffic Tickets

Companies do not install GPS tracking devices to avoid traffic tickets. Safety and efficiency are the vital issues that prompt owners to employ this technology. But...it can be an added bonus in traffic court. If your GPS tracking device gives evidence that you were not driving over the speed limit and the court accepts it, why not use it? This will save you money as well.

Article authored by Nancy McCord of McCord Web Design

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Protect Your Construction Equipment With GPS Auto Tracker Technology

2008-11-11T22:59:00.000-08:00

The theft of construction equipment is big business for criminals that have access to international shipping. In the past year law enforcement officials have found large dump trucks completely buried in South Florida by thieves who were waiting for their ship to make a port of call at Miami. In one case a check of serial numbers found that all the equipment being used by a construction company was in fact stolen. Whenever the company needed a piece of equipment they would just drive up to a nearby construction site and load it up and truck it away.

The cost of insuring construction equipment has steadily risen as a result of equipment losses. Some companies are fighting back through the use of GPS auto tracker technology. GPS tracking devices are becoming smaller and smaller allowing them to be hidden. Unlike the Lojack system that uses short range radio signals to help police locate stolen equipment, GPS tracking devices can be located in just about any location with a clear view of the sky and many cases inside building.

If you have equipment at multiple worksites and need to manage your equipment resources then GPS auto tracking technology will help you. New GPS tracking units will not only give the location of each piece of equipment but also tell you when it is being used and for how long. You can also monitor the status major mechanical systems as well. A simple check of your data base will tell you how many hours you have on each unit thereby assuring that proper maintenance is scheduled and completed. All of which will protect your valuable investment.

Real time GPS tracking is accomplished through the use of a GPS tracking device that is attached to your equipment in a hidden location. Information from this device is then uploaded to a GPS tracking service provider either by cell phone or satellite phone systems. The service company then provides your company with the tracking information that is displayed on your company computers.

In the advent that you lose track of a piece to equipment you can immediately located it. In addition you can apply geo fencing features that will send an alarm to you and law enforcement when your equipment leaves its assigned area. You can quickly stop the loss of your equipment and also the loss of income due to equipment downtime due to the loss. Finding a replacement for a key piece of equipment will take time and time is something that you cannot replace.

Protect your valuable equipment resources through the use of GPS auto tracker technology. You may find that your insurance company will be able to give you significant discounts when you use GPS tracking technology to protect your valuable equipment. You will not only save money but also peace of mind knowing your have control of your construction equipment 24 hours a day.

James Kesel, MS is the Publisher of the GPS Auto Tracker website at http://www.gps-auto-trackers.com Providing information on the latest GPS Tracking and Navigation systems. Protect your construction equipment using GPS auto tracker technology.

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GPS Tracking Helps Reduce Teen Driving Fatalities

2008-11-09T04:20:00.000-08:00

Did you know the number one cause of teenager deaths are car accidents?

In 2000, 6,495 people between the ages of 15 and 20 were killed in motor vehicle crashes-the leading cause of death for this age group.

GPS tracking systems have given parents a convenient, cost-effective and easy-to-use tool to keep their teenagers safe. GPS tracking systems helps parents keep their teenagers accountable while still giving them privacy. Passengers affect the way teenagers drive, they drive differently depending who is in the vehicle with them. However, with a GPS tracking system, parents are able to monitor teenager's driving habits without having to be in the vehicle with them. Here are facts that every parent need know from the National Security Counsil(NSC):

More than 3,800 young drivers age 15-20 are killed every year in traffic crashes.
More than 326,000 young drivers are injured.
Young drivers are involved in fatal traffic crashes at over twice the rate as the rest of the population.
Exceding the posted speed limit or driving at an unsafe speed is the most common error in fatal accidents.

It is very important for parents familiarize themselves with their teenager's driving habits. Without proper monitoring and guidance, the risk of young and inexperienced drivers can be fatal.

GPS tracking systems are able to monitor speed, location, time and time duration of the gps tracking device remains stationary. In addition to tracking driving habits, it also keeps teenagers accountable of where they went. There are many GPS tracking systems available for personal use in the market.

One of the GPS tracking systems that works well is the GPS tracking Key by LandAirSea Systems, Inc. With a GPS tracking system, you will never have worry about where your teenager's been or how they're driving as the GPS Tracking System keeps them accountable and helps build your trust with your teenager.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vincent_L_Lee

Top 5 Of The Best Handheld GPS Units

2008-11-05T02:53:00.000-08:00

Always consider the assortment of situations you will be using your GPS navigational unit in before you make your final decision to purchase a certain one. Are you going to be using the GPS receiver for hunting, fishing and camping? Or around town, planning cross country trips and need gas stations and restaurant locations? These are all things to be considered before you make a purchase of a portable or best handheld GPS unit. The best five best handheld GPS units are:

Garmin eTrex Vista

The Garmin eTrex Vista is a best handheld GPS unit because it offers so many features, to many to list here, but the most in this price range. Several of its features are: very high-resolution liquid crystal display screen for effortless reading even with the small print; waterproof up to three feet with a shock-absorbing rubber coating over the entire unit; weights only 5.3 ounces and uses position accuracy to less than three meters with Wide Area Augmentation System or WAAS correction data.

TomTom Rider Portable GPS

The TomTom GPS navigational receiver was originally built for motorcycles so you know it has to be a rugged and tough portable machine. Allowing you to see clearly in all weather conditions, it is coated with an anti-glare film on the colored 3.5" touch screen which also has a sun visor attached to it. This portable gps unit comes with a Bluetooth for hands-free operation, maps of the United States, Smart Digital with thousands of points of interest, automatic rerouting, choice of 50 voices and 30 languages along with a USB port for uploading photos and other maps from your computer.

Cobra GPS Handheld Navigator

The StreetFinder software is easy to install on to your computer and then pick which maps you want to for your trips and load them into the Cobra GPS using the enclosed cable. Lastly, punch in your destination and follow the map directions on the screen. The Cobra includes the United States boundaries and Canada's providences boarders, European and hundreds of world wide cities. The Cobra uses WAAS technology which is more accurate than most GPS units.

Garmin StreetPilot c340 GPS Navigational System

Specific maps and areas of interest are easily downloaded from your computer after installing the software which comes with the StreetPilot. A simple touch screen display and choose between the 3D or the more traditional 'birds eye' overhead view. Allows out-of-field trip planning and comes with an ion lithium battery which will last between four and eight hours, depending on which screens you are using.

Magellan Crossover GPS

This GPS unit comes with an eight hour battery so you can listen to the MP3 player, download photographs, plan trips, navigate and search for points of interest. This gps unit has advanced vehicle navigation and outdoor GPS routing capabilities in a pocket size, lightweight portable. You can now go from on road to off road just by lifting it off the mount and you're ready to go. It's rugged, waterproof and stylish for the wilderness or a trip around town.

For more information on what is a GPS tracking unit, try visiting http://www.bestgpssystemsreview.com, a popular GPS website that offers handheld GPS tips, resources and information on GPS systems for motorcycles so you can enjoy the ride and still get to where you want to go.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlie_Lee

TomTom New HD Traffic Technology

2008-11-04T02:53:00.000-08:00

The anticipation had been intense for some time. Finally the day had come. On November 15, 2007 all eyes were set on the Movenpick hotel located in Amsterdam for the launching of the two latest TomTom products. Quickly established as the leading provider of GPS products, many were brimming in anticipation to learn what else TomTom had in store.

The first new GPS system unveiled was the anxiously awaited 'High Definition Traffic' service. The second system actually works as a device to harness the power of the High Definition Traffic system. Together these two products make an outstanding navigational unit using the latest GPS technology.

HD TRAFFIC FEATURES

HD Traffic by TomTom is very unique in the way it functions. This highly advanced GPS system collects anonymous information to generate the most accurate traffic results. The process is done by combining cell phones and other traffic information from existing sources. This enables the system to thoroughly pinpoint where a traffic jam will occur, and determine approximately how long your journey will take. TomTom HD Traffic transmits data to its users at three minute intervals, five minutes faster than most GPS systems. This service will cover up to ten times as many roads being that HD isn't restricted to highways and secondary streets like most other systems.

ONE XL HD TRAFFIC FEATURES

Combine this with your HD Traffic service and unleash the full potential! The second part of the TomTom launch is the first PND to be compatible with the new GPS system. The latest ONE XL device permits a Vodafone sim card; this allows you to successfully connect to the Vodafone network. This is done to enhance the quality of traffic mapping, as the position of your PND is constantly trailed. The remaining traffic specifications of this incredible merger are the same as those you will find with the previous ONE XL system.

NEW DESIGN!

The new ONE XL HD Traffic also has a sleek and stylish look to it. The slim build of its 4.3 inch touch screen makes for an easy overview of your environment, allowing you to navigate and focus on the road as well. This GPS system brings you accurate data instantly with no nagging activation, configuration or installation procedures needed.

IMPROVED FEATURES

The TomTom ONE XL HD Traffic also includes recent GPS technologies such as Mapshare. This allows users to instantly modify their own maps. Another great perk is the safety feature, 'Help Me!'. This function gives you a thorough list of roadside contacts just in case you encounter an emergency on the road.

TomTom is very optimistic about expanding the group of users for the new HD Traffic system. As usual they are looking to build their updates based on user feedback. In the meantime, we expect great GPS reviews on this extraordinary navigational system. The ONE XL HD allows drivers to receive traffic data in a more timely fashion, giving back more accurate results than ever before available.

UK gps

GPS for cars

Portable gps units

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TomTom GPS Receiver - Technology in Your Hand

2008-11-03T02:53:00.000-08:00

With the increasing popularity of Global Positioning System, a host of GPS related products are coming into the market. The GPS receiver is one of those products that comes in a variety of styles and is manufactured by numerous companies. TomTom is one of the leading brands in the UK.

For anyone interested in a GPS receiver, certain things must be considered prior to purchase including manner and frequency of use. Those who plan to use their GPS receiver may be interested in those models that have a greater range of features. TomTom GPS receiver gives you the most advanced technology with added benefits. The dedicated TomTom receiver weighs only a little more than 10 ounces and measures 4.5 by 3.6 by 2.3 inches that makes it the smallest all-in-one devices ever seen. Its multi color touch-screen display and black case with removable silver bezel surrounding gives it a look of tiny television screen. Its functions are so simple that you will get only two buttons below the screen. One is used for power and the other is used for removing the device from its mount.

This phenomenal GPS device is having another unique feature called as SD (Secure Digital). It is used for loading OS and maps. TomTom's products emphasize innovation, quality, and simplicity of use, safety and consumer value. Therefore, TomTom GPS receiver is masterpiece in terms of quality. You can avail many benefits if you avail this GPS device. One of the key features is that it navigates directly form the PDA addresses book integrating TomTom software into the PDA menu.

TomTom GPS receiver is a perfect solution to all your connecting needs. It eliminates the need for connecting cables. It is so small in size and having a lightweight that it can be used in the car, or in your bag or pocket for use on bike or on foot. Thus it is the worthwhile device if you are a tech-savvy guy.

Jayson Pablo, a dedicated writer of Rupizcompare.co.uk which provide information on GPS receivers and maps software.

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Tom Tom Go 520 - A Real Path Finder

2008-11-01T02:52:00.000-07:00

A decade ago, a majority of us were unaware of the term satellite navigation devices. But slowly the term got popular among the public. The satellite navigation devices were primarily used for defense purposes. But with in the last decade, the term got popularized and we saw them emerging into the common life as a gadget of luxury.But satellite navigation devices are no more luxury items. These are now gadgets of comfort which are nowadays popular among drivers. Thanks to its capability to show the right path when you are in an unknown area. Never wonder how it could show you the right path. There are no secrets in it. The device captures the satellite images and display them on the screen. It thus makes us aware of the route and prevents us from being alone in an unknown area.

The expansion of satellite navigation device market has resulted in the entry of a number of new brands. This has resulted in a heavy competition among them. The latest TomTom Go 520 satellite navigation device comes with a 4.3 inch wide screen that assures a perfect display. This model car navigator is attractive with an elegant and slim design and high quality finishing. How is it possible to leave out the extra large 4.3 inch screen with high quality 3D graphics? It is the special feature of the device that makes it stand apart. Want to know the USP of this device? This device enjoys the record of being the first device in the market to carry the names of millions of cities and streets. With the new TomTom Go 520 satellite navigation device, you do not have to worry about the safety. It carries an extensive range of safety features. It has a built-in FM transmitter that will transmit sound over the car stereo and give you an excellent audio experience.

Known as the largest portable navigation solution provider in the world, the device carries ground breaking technology along with a host of really attractive features such as speech recognition that would provide an ultimate driving experience to the user. Being slim and elegant, this device with high quality finish is apt to get fit in any car or shirt pocket.

Adam Caitlin is expert author of Telecommunication industry. Who writes on phones with gifts, pay as you go mobile phones and Tom Tom Go 520

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GPS - What Is It?

2008-10-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

GPS, or Global Positioning System, is the latest thing in keeping from getting lost when trekking out to visit your Aunt Louise. Years ago you had to rely on landmarks, your handy compass or the guy at the corner gas station, assuming he knew where everything was. Today for about a hundred bucks you can get a little gadget that will tell you exactly where you are, any place on Earth. By using some basic mathematical calculations and a rather complex system, you can be in the middle of the desert, lost as can be, push a button and have your GPS tell you exactly where you are so that you can hopefully find your way back home.

So what exactly is GPS and how does it work?

GPS is actually a very complex and expensive system but the fundamental concepts of the system are very simple.

The GPS system is a group of 27 Earth orbiting satellites. Twenty-four of them are in operation and 3 are backups in case one fails. The system was originally created for the US military but was eventually opened up to everyone else.

Each one of these satellites, weighing in at about 4,000 pounds, circles the Earth at about 12,000 miles per hour and makes 2 complete rotations everyday. The orbits are arranged so that at any one point in the day 4 of these satellites are visible from any place on Earth.

The complimenting receiver that was created to receive signals from these satellites has the job of locating 4 or more of these satellites, figure out the distance to each and from that information determine where on the planet the receiver itself is located. It then transmits this location back to the person who happens to be in possession of the receiver. The operation is based on a simple mathematical principal called trilateration. To simply explain how this works, let's say someone tells you that you are 10 miles from Newark, NJ, another person tells you that you are 15 miles from Maplewood, NJ and a third person tells you that you are 20 miles from Woodbridge, NJ. By taking those three facts you can figure out exactly where you are because each radius of each distance when linked together will intersect at only one point. That point is where you are located.

In order to actually do the calculation from space the GPS receiver needs to know 2 things. The location of at least 3 satellites above you and the distance between you and each of those satellites. The reason that only 3 satellites or spheres are needed is because the Earth itself can act as a fourth sphere. The GPS receiver itself works by radio waves which are a kind of electromagnetic energy and travel at the speed of light The receiver can actually figure out how far the signal has travelled by timing how long it took for the signal to arrive from each of the satellites.

In the next article on GPS we'll go over exactly how this system works to measure distance.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Global Positioning Systems
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GPS: Usability Over Functionality

2008-10-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

There is an easy test that I like to use when evaluating a GPS, or any type of electronic device. I call it the user manual test. When I pick up a new GPS for the first time, I see how easily I can operate the GPS with common sense alone and without using the manual. Criteria for a good GPS is firmly based on how easily I can operate the menu options and pick up the functions. This is an aspect that some people overlook yet it is perhaps the single most important part of a GPS.

The first reason that user friendly functions and menus are so important is that the vast majority of people who buy GPS units are seasonal or occasional users. They are not out there 5 days a week, honing their skills and keeping the idiosyncrasies of their GPS at the forefront of their mind! Consequently, most users want to be able to pick the damn thing up and be able to get their hands on accurate information that can make the difference between getting lost, or even a fatal ending to an outdoor adventure.

The second reason that GPS units need to be easy to use is that they are often used by groups such as hunters, fishermen and hikers. This makes it quite likely that some members of the group will not be experienced with your particular model or brand of GPS. In these kinds of circumstances it is doubtful that anyone will want to sit down and read a user manual, that is if you still know where it is! So do yourself a favor and get a GPS that makes sense to you without having to go to the book, if for nothing else that from a safety point of view.

The third reason it that if you are willing to spend a couple of bucks on your GPS and choose a top brand such as Magellan or Garmin you don’t need to worry too much about what functions are included. The level of competition between these two companies is so high that neither is willing to put sub-standard products into the marketplace. At http://www.thegpscentre.com you can see reviews of GPS units and see how close these brand really are in both quality and price. What will make the difference will be the users ability to take advantage of the functions.

Remember, there is no point having a GPS with several navigation screens, thousands of automatic way-points if you can’t work out how to use them with ease. Happy trails and safe navigating to you all.

The author is a regular contributor to http://www.incargpsworld.com and permission to reproduce this article is given only on the basis that all links remain active and intact.

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GPS - Never Get Lost Again With Satellite Navigation

2008-10-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

When we travel, we tend to think of the destination, rather than the roads we take to get there. After all, who wouldn't rather dream of the vacation as opposed to the hours spent in a cramped car with the kids asking every few minutes, "Are we there yet?"

But, the truth is, we have to know where we are to get to where we're going. That is why having a Global Positioning System (more commonly called GPS) is so essential. This cyber map will always be aware of your movements and location, allowing you the security of never having to second-guess directions.

Does this scenario sound familiar? You have traveled down a dirt road, filled with more ruts than dirt, only to enter a town whose biggest
attraction is a gas station with inside restrooms. You didn't want to be here, but your innate sense of direction (or lack thereof) coupled with a map that can only be described as adequate, brought you. Now, you have to either turn around or rely on the directions of a man who was more interested in reading the paper than listening to you. It is a tiresome situation, to put it lightly, and one you should not have to experience.

So what difference would a GPS system make? First of all, you would always know exactly where you are. This satellite locator is the only complete one on the word, meaning: the directions it gives you will be based only on the best and most accurate information. Secondly, a GPS system can be personalized. Unlike a map that just gives roads and the occasional extra information, a GPS can be trained to show you local attractions, hotels, restaurants, airports, etc. It can also become your personal address book, storing the roads and routes important to your daily life. With that, you will always be aware of which turn to make and when to do it. No more missing your exit by being distracted; a GPS system will actually tell you to turn.

Because of these amenities, the GPS has quickly risen to the level of 'needed' item. Not only does it assure that you will always know where you are, but it also brings a level of safety to drivers. No more stumbling about the street, hoping to find the turn you need. A GPS system will always let you know when the time is right to turn.

Of course, it must be noted that there are different types of systems and, the cheaper you buy, the less it will be able to do. Though it is usually thought to pay less and hope for the best, in this case, it is wiser to invest in a more equipped system, or at least one more tailored to your lifestyle. That way, you can guarantee yourself a higher level of security when it comes to traveling. Whether going about town or heading across country, you should always know where you are.

Richard Cussons is a prolific and diverse writer. You will find out more about GPS at Satellite Navigation Online.

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GPS - Know Your Exact Position Anywhere In The World

2008-10-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

GPS [global positioning system] is a worldwide radio-navigation system formed from the constellation of 24 satellites and their ground stations. It is a system mainly used to locate the user’s position at a time. Although GPS was originally intended for military applications, but now it is mainly used in marine, location-based services and terrestrial navigation. GPS can work for 24 hours in any type of weather condition, irrespective of sun and rain.

Working of GPS system

GPS works in a wonderful way. The GPS satellite circles the earth twice a day in a precise orbit and transmits signal information to earth. GPS receivers take into this information and use “triangulation method” to calculate the user’s exact location. The meaning of “triangulation” is receiving radio signals from a distance. Along with knowing the distance, you also need to know exactly the position of the satellites in space. This is done with the help of high orbits and carefully monitoring the instruments for locating the satellites. Finally you also need to correct any type of delays that the signal can experience as it has to travel for a long distance through the atmosphere.

Importance of GPS system

GPS is important as it helps you to figure out where you are and where you are going when you are traveling from one place to another. Navigation and positioning are important but cumbersome activities, which GPS makes it easier. Once GPS locates your position, then it starts tracing other factors like speed, bearing, tracks, trip distance, sunrise/sunset time, distance to destination and several other details. GPS uses “man-made” stars as reference points to calculate positions accurate to a matter of meters. However, with recent forms of GPS you can make measurements much better than centimeter readings. So it is with the aid of GPS that you can give a unique and specified address to every square meter on the planet.

You can get GPS services without any subscription fees and set up charges. So these days GPS finds its way into cars, planes, boats, construction equipments, farm machinery, laptop computers and movie making gears.

Modern GPS systems

With the world advancing rapidly everyday, there are recently discovered Newer Garmin GPS receivers with WAAS [Wide Area Augmentation System] that can improve the quality and accuracy of location of any one at any time. Although no additional equipment is required, yet users get the advantage of Differential GPS [DGPS] to get correct signals within the distance of three to five meters. So use GPS systems to get the maximum benefits of modern technology.

Sharon Albright is the owner of GPS Site. Read more articles on GPS and visit her recommended resources.

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GPS - How It Works

2008-10-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

In this second of a three part series we're going to go over how GPS receivers actually measure distance. A lot of math and science goes into this stuff so sit back and get ready to strain your brain.

At any given time, let's choose midnight for this example, the satellite begins transmitting a digital pattern called a pseudo-random code. At that same time the GPS receiver begins running that same random pattern. When the satellite's signal reaches the receiver the pattern transmission will lag a little behind the receivers playing of the same pattern. The length of the delay is equal to the travel time of the signal. The receiver multiplies this time by the speed of light to measure how far the signal actually travelled. We assume the signal travelled in a straight line and this therefore is the distance from receiver to satellite.

In order for this measurement to be able to be made the receiver and the satellite both need clocks that can be synchronized to the nanosecond. In order to make this possible you need atomic clocks, not only in the receiver but in every satellite as well. Atomic clocks cost between $50,000 and $100,000. That makes them a little too expensive for everyday use.

To overcome this cost problem the GPS system has a very clever solution. Every satellite contains an expensive atomic clock but the receiver contains a regular quartz clock which the receiver itself constantly resets. The receiver looks at the incoming signals from four or more of the satellites and compensates for it's own inaccuracy. Once it calculates the correct time value this will cause all the signals that the receiver is getting from the satellites to align at a single point in space. That is the time value held by the atomic clocks in the satellites themselves. So the receiver sets it's clock to that time value and therefore has the same time value as all the satellites. Atomic clock accuracy for quartz clock prices. You can't beat that.

When you measure the distance to four satellites you can draw four spheres that all intersect at one point. Three spheres will intersect even if you're way off but four spheres will only intersect if you are exactly right. The receiver can calculate the time needed for the spheres to intersect at one point. Based on this it resets it's clock to match the atomic clocks of the satellites. The receiver does this constantly as long as it is on, which gives it the same accuracy as the atomic clocks in the satellites.

In order for this info to be of any use, the receiver also has to know where the satellites actually are. To do this, the receiver stores an almanac that tells where each satellite is at a given time. Any adjustments that need to be made because of gravitational pull are transmitted to the receivers by the department of the military.

In the last instalment of this series we'll go over problems with the system, how they can be compensated for and how to use the data itself.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Global Positioning Systems
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