Tuesday 27 October 2009

Different Types Of GPS Devices

By Jason Myers

The ability to identify where you are, where you want to be, and how to get there was once best established through the use of a paper atlas. If you were taking a trip in your automobile then there is a good chance you utilized either an atlas or one of those large tri-folded maps which really weren't much help while attempting to drive. Fortunately navigating the world nowadays is easier thanks to the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the varied kinds of GPS gadgets that utilize it.

If you are thinking about how these GPS devices do what they do then read on. The Global Positioning System was formulated and implemented by the United States Department of Defense when it launched its initial GPS satellite back in 1978. At present there are 24 satellites in the GPS network that are the cornerstone of the whole network.

There are several varied kinds of GPS gadgets that are designed to take advantage of this network of satellites. GPS mapping devices are used to gather points and any data attached to those points for mapping purposes. Actually these gadgets have been utilized for years to gather the data that makes the maps and mapping features used by other GPS navigating systems.

Which brings us to the very popular customer GPS gadget: the GPS navigating system. The most familiar of these is the in-car GPS unit that shows you map of where you are going and tells you using voice directions how to get there. These GPS equipment are either installed in the cars dash or are transportable and can be moved between vehicles.

A number of navigational units offer a feature whereby you can locate bars, shopping, hospitals, and hotels regardless of where you are; this can be incredibly helpful when hunting services in a town with which you are unfamiliar. The smaller versions of these navigational gadgets are portable devices that can be used by backpackers, hunters, and other outdoor aficionados.

These kinds of GPS units will keep track of where you are, leave a breadcrumb trail of where you've been, and will show you to where you want to go. A lot of of these devices also feature built in cameras and voice recorders, letting you keep a record of your journeys.

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