January 24, 2009
Finding Your Way Using GPS
When you are lost and you cannot find your way it is a good idea to have a GPS tracking system in your car, you will receive directions on how to get to the place you need to get to. Above the earth there are many satellites orbiting the earth that are continually communicating and providing information about where the vehicle is located on the earth.
GPS or Global Positioning System tracks your location by interpreting the data received from 3 or more satellites. Since the invention of the cell phone, cell phone companies are able to help the authorities for many years by triangulated the position of someones cell phone by using there signal and the cell towers. Many cars and trucks are able to record the location and speed of the vehicle and is able to transmit this information back to the office.
There are many different types of GPS tracking systems, and many companies are manufacturing them. There are so many different kinds of handheld GPS systems, one kind has a built in radio which allows you to communicate with each other but also allows you see the position of all the other people on your screen, this is good for hikers to keep in contact with each other. The governmental agency (FCC) has instructed GPS system providers to help with 911 calls for those people who are lost and need to be traced and tracked. The GPS systems are so advanced now it allows the proper authorities to track locations for 911 emergency calls; this is only allowed when there is an emergency and will not be used on a daily basis. Many automobiles are being equipped with passive GPS tracking, these system will record the location and the drivers speed, this information can be used later on for statistical information. A vehicle?s location is updated at intervals of between 2 - 15 minutes.
There are many types of GPS vehicle tracking; wireless passive, cellular and satellite systems that can track in a real time basis. When talking about a cellular based system, these systems transmit the vehicles information over a land network every 5 minutes.
GPS vehicle tracking systems are more affordable and more popular than ever before, but do you need one. Many business are starting to use GPS systems that track their vehicles so they know where each vehicles it. Many car manufactures are including these GPS systems in their cars and trucks. GPS tracking systems are used by businesses in the service, transportation and manufacturing industries.
There are other types of GPS or global positioning systems can help give you peace of mind in knowing when your pet has crossed outside the safety zone of the backyard, or somewhere in your neighborhood. Many pet tracker system use GPS technology to keep track of your pets, these devices are so small they are able to fit into the pets collar. GPS tracking system do cost more depending on the brand name, but the features and functionality are well worth it.
#TITLE#How GPS Works#/TITLE#
Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigational aid originally developed for the military. The system simply receives signals. It is the applied technology that gives the GPS its versatility.
If you have ever used map and compass, you will understand a little about how the GPS
works. In order to find your position on a map, you need to have three points of
reference. The intersecting line from the reference points is where you are. Map and
compass work uses triangulation (bearings), GPS uses trilateration (distances) to calculate location. Satellites orbiting the earth emit unique signals that can be received by a GPS. The GPS software interprets the signal, identifying the satellite that it came from, where it was located, and the time that it took for the signal to reach the system. Once the receiver has both time and distance it begins to determine position.
Three satellites provide the intersection point and the fourth is used to check that the positioning is accurate. Accuracy depends upon the synchronization of atomic clocks in the satellites with the clock in the GPS system. Although the clock in the GPS is not atomic, utilizing the fourth satellite gives it that functionality as the internal clock adjusts itself to correct any discrepancy discovered.
GPS has gone far beyond its initial military application. Drivers can find their way
through city streets, long distance trekkers use the technology to cross unfamiliar terrain, mariners and pilots use GPS enhanced data to cross the seas and skies.
In–vehicle GPS can be integrated into the car entertainment system or can be installed as a removable device. These systems need to tell the driver where he/she is and how to
reach their destination. The information includes road directions plus relevant features along the way such as rest stops, gas stations, points of interest, etc. Auto GPS uses voice commands so that the driver can concentrate on the road.
Hikers and trekkers use similar technology, but normally without the inclusion of road
systems on their devices. Mapping software defines the territory that the hiker will
encounter. The user can enter waypoints (points of reference) so they can return using the same route. They can add points of interest such as water sources, possible campsites, and other items of interest on their trail. However, the portability demanded by hikers will also limit the functionality of the system as small screens mean that some detail will be lost.
It is GPS technology that is used to track individuals on home arrest, to trace missing
pets, stolen vehicles, and missing people. Small systems can be incorporated into pet
collars and wristwatches. As long as the receiver is active, it can be found.
Marine and aviation GPS units are sophisticated and specialized. The principles involved are the same as any standard system; the software is much more highly developed.
Any fisherman, who is using a fish finder on his boat, is using a GPS that is enhanced by
sonar and tracking devices. Units have been developed for use on float tubes also - as
GPS technology advances, the systems become more and more compact and their uses
more and more extensive.
If you are considering purchasing a GPS, make sure that it can be updated easily. This is especially true if you buy a multi–function GPS or one that is used where conditions change regularly. An in–vehicle GPS soon loses its usefulness if it is not updated as road systems change.
Updates vary according to the device being used. They can come in CD/DVD packages
or as computer downloads. The user can purchase maps specific to the area in which the GPS will be used or a range of maps and routes. These are available from GPS software companies who will charge proportionally to the sophistication of the software.
GPS units vary in price according to their usefulness. It is possible to buy units for less than one hundred dollars to units costing more than one thousand dollars. What your needs are will be a factor in the cost of your unit. If you are a backpacker then portability is a major consideration. If you are a trucker, you need to be able to find a delivery point as quickly and conveniently as possible. Whatever device you go for, cost is generally related to quality. Buy the best you can afford.
About the author:
Anne King is a sports and recreation writer in Boise, Idaho. For more GPS information, visit Maps GPS Info.com which provides practical information on GPS and maps that everyone can use. The website includes product reviews and a maps/GPS glossary.
