วันเสาร์ที่ 29 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2550

What is GPS?

By Jason Gluckman

Global Positioning Systems or GPS are satellite navigational systems made-up of 24 satellites revolving round the earth. Each satellite has a corresponding receiver on the earth. The satellites orbit the earth at a height of about 12,000 miles. It makes two complete orbits everyday. The GPS satellites continuously transmit digital radio signals that contain data on the location of the satellites and the time taken for signal transmission.

GPS tracking is the term given to the process of being able to locate the exact location of a receiver on earth. Now that the production cost of GPS technology is significantly lower than when it first came into existence, many companies have found new ways to make use of this technology. In GPS tracking, the user is able to keep a track of where they have been using a portable GPS device. GPS tracking can be used in a better way when it is combined with other broadcast technologies, such as a wristwatch or radio. GPS watches, for example, can be fitted with a GPS receiver, which relays a signal to a central command center equipped with GPS software systems. The central command center can track the position of the watch and transmit that information to a third party. That third party may be anyone who needs the position of the wearer urgently. In fact, a variety of such GPS phones and wristbands are sold in the market today. This serves two purposes. Firstly, it provides the driver with an integrated GPS system, without the necessity to purchase a car navigation system, or a PDA-based GPS system. It also offers the possibility to relay that information via a radio or cell phone transmitter.

GPS systems have been used primarily as vehicle locators, especially in cases when a vehicle attached with such a system is stolen. The police, once informed, can find out from the control center where the vehicle is, and proceed to track it down. Tracking is also being used in other fields such as pet tracking, coordinated tracking and consumer tracking.

GPS provides detailed information on GPS, GPS Tracking, Handheld GPS, GPS Systems and more. GPS is affiliated with Free Cell Phone Number Search.

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

What is GPS?
By Wikipedia
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is the only fully functional Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Utilizing a constellation of at least 24 medium Earth orbit satellites that transmit precise microwave signals, the system enables a GPS receiver to determine its location, speed/direction, and time.

Developed by the United States Department of Defense, it is officially named NAVSTAR GPS (Contrary to popular belief, NAVSTAR is not an acronym, but simply a name given by Mr. John Walsh, a key decision maker when it came to the budget for the GPS program[1]). The satellite constellation is managed by the United States Air Force 50th Space Wing. The cost of maintaining the system is approximately US$750 million per year,[2] including the replacement of aging satellites, and research and development. Despite these costs, GPS is free for civilian use as a public good.

GPS has become a widely used aid to navigation worldwide, and a useful tool for map-making, land surveying, commerce, and scientific uses. GPS also provides a precise time reference used in many applications including scientific study of earthquakes, and synchronization of telecommunications

Timeline
* In 1972, the US Air Force Central Inertial Guidance Test Facility (Holloman AFB) conducted developmental fight tests of two prototype GPS receivers over White Sands Missile Range, using ground-based pseudo-satellites.
* In 1978 the first experimental Block-I GPS satellite was launched.
* In 1983, after Soviet interceptor aircraft shot down the civilian airliner KAL 007 in restricted Soviet airspace, killing all 269 people on board, U.S. President Ronald Reagan announced that the GPS system would be made available for civilian uses once it was completed.
* By 1985, ten more experimental Block-I satellites had been launched to validate the concept.
* On February 14, 1989, the first modern Block-II satellite was launched.
* In 1992, the 2nd Space Wing, which originally managed the system, was de-activated and replaced by the 50th Space Wing.
* By December 1993 the GPS system achieved initial operational capability[32]
* By January 17, 1994 a complete constellation of 24 satellites was in orbit.
* Full Operational Capability was declared by NAVSTAR in April 1995.
* In 1996, recognizing the importance of GPS to civilian users as well as military users, U.S. President Bill Clinton issued a policy directive[33] declaring GPS to be a dual-use system and establishing an Interagency GPS Executive Board to manage it as a national asset.
* In 1998, U.S. Vice President Al Gore announced plans to upgrade GPS with two new civilian signals for enhanced user accuracy and reliability, particularly with respect to aviation safety.
* On May 2, 2000 "Selective Availability" was discontinued as a result of the 1996 executive order, allowing users to receive a non-degraded signal globally.
* In 2004, the United States Government signed a historic agreement with the European Community establishing cooperation related to GPS and Europe's planned Galileo system.
* In 2004, U.S. President George W. Bush updated the national policy, replacing the executive board with the National Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Executive Committee.
* November 2004, QUALCOMM announced successful tests of Assisted-GPS system for mobile phones.[3]
* In 2005, the first modernized GPS satellite was launched and began transmitting a second civilian signal (L2C) for enhanced user performance.
* The most recent launch was on 17 November 2006. The oldest GPS satellite still in operation was launched in August 1991.
* On September 14, 2007, the aging mainframe-based Ground Segment Control System was transitioned to the new Architecture Evolution Plan.

วันจันทร์ที่ 24 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2550

GPS on Mobile Phone

GPS Enabled Mobile Phones
By Victor Thomas
Like a navigation system, GPS enabled mobile phones are very helpful in getting step by step directions in getting to a destination. Nextel is the only provider of GPS navigation service in mobile phones. It provides this highly supportive GPS device for televisions in the brand name of "TeleNav" and mobile phones in the brand name of "ViaMoto".

This GPS feature has been equipped with mobile phones to educate them about the routes with mileage. The admirable advantage in this regard is rerouting potential. When you move to the wrong direction with this Nextel mobile, it will indicate you about your wrong diversions and help you to go in the correct direction to reach a particular place.

You can even get the advantage of location based utilities through this GPS feature. There are various categories loaded in these mobiles that include the route to the nearest movie theatres, hotels, amusement parks etc. Then it will determine your destination and after that it will download the results on your phone search. The only drawback of this GPS feature is network unavailability.

If you go to a place where you may not get the network of Nextel you could not enjoy the advantage of this feature. As it is dependent up on a signal network signal, the coverage of network is very essential. It is vital to have TeleNav or ViaMoto Java application in your mobile. You can feed information like your door number, name of your street, city and state to get the direction to your home through this GPS . You are asked to follow digital voice indications to reach the destination correctly.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Thomas

GPS Applications And Uses

GPS: Applications And Uses
By Gabriel J. Adams

What are the uses for GPS? There are many, both for individuals, corporations, and the government.

Military
The military uses GPS technology to guide missiles, track and control forces and facilities, and more. GPS has allowed command and control of forces to greatly advance their effectiveness. Using GPS, units can report their exact location to command central, and easily find directions to other locations.

Automotive
Many newer vehicle models come with a GPS feature, which can be used to get customized maps and directions from your current location, to a specified location. This feature can be very effective, but some users warn that you should remember that it is just a machine and often makes mistakes. For example, it may take you by the shortest route, but it may take you longer to get there due to low speed limits.

Marine
Just like automobiles, many boats and ships use GPS for navigation. GPS may be especially helpful during darkness, fog, or other low visibility conditions.

Emergency Location
Many cell phone have GPS capabilities in them, so that emergency personnel can use GPS locating technology to locate a person vie their cell phone. The Navy & Coast Guard also use GPS technology for location lost persons.

Outdoor sports
Hunters, wilderness explorers, and other outdoor sportsmen may use GPS for navigation purposes, and / or to help find their way when lost.

Surveying
Many surveyors use GPS units to survey and establish boundaries and other locations or markers.

GeoCaching
Geocaching is a game or sport invented in 2000, which uses GPS to locate and find caches, or small treasures. One person hides the cache, the posts the details, with co-ordinates, on a geocaching website. Geochachers then attempt to locate the cache. Once one locates the cache, he or she may sign the log, and / or trade a belonging for some of th treasure in the cache. This ensures that their is always treasure in the cache.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams

GPS for Golf game

1. Golf GPS Systems - Gadgets to Improve Your Game
By Sarah Freeland

One of the newest tools of the trade is the golf GPS (global positioning system). These tools provide golfers with course maps and they can be used for determining yardage. There are several different models of golf GPSs including handheld GPS system models and digital caddies. These golf gadgets have become so popular in the last couple of years that now many of the top golf courses offer digital caddies that have a gps integrated into their golf cart rentals.

If you are in the market for a handheld GPS then you have several great options to choose from. Your first option is the Sky Golf – Sky Caddie SG2 GPS. This handheld model has a list price of $349.99, however, you can occasionally find it on sale for around $280. This product includes a programmable GPS rangefinder, an AC battery charger, a USB cable to connect your GPS to your computer, software, a belt clip, and a quick start guide.

If you have a pocket PC then you might be interested in the GPS Golf Pro with Bluetooth GPS Receiver. This item has a list price of $350, however, it is commonly available for a much lower price. It offers an electronic scorecard, shot by shot tracking, club recommendations, GPS distances, and scorecard email.

If you are looking for an easy to use handheld GPS then you may be interested in the SONOCADDIE GOLF GPS SYSTEM. This product sells for around $300. It offers distance tracking for several items like targets, hazards, and distances to the green.

Golf GPS devices are great golf cart accessories and they can be a great gift to give to yourself or to someone else. When you shop for a golf GPS make sure that you try a few out to see which ones you like best. Make sure that you can read the display and make sure that you are able to use all of the buttons or stylist. You will also want to shop around and compare prices, as this can help you to save $50 to $100 on a single golf GPS model.

Are you in the market for golf accessories? Fore Her Golf carries clothing and accessories with a feminine appeal including polo shirts, skirts, golf GPS devices, hats and outerwear from top brands - also a great selection of unique golf gifts and memorabilia for the lady golfer in your life. Fore Her Golf is your source for women's golf supplies and gifts, products reviews and recommendations as well as game tips and training techniques. For more information on golfing and other recreational activities visit the golf directory.

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

2. Improve your golf game with StarCaddy.
Choosing the right club can make or break your game. StarCaddy's s unique PDA-based software and hardware helps you choose the best club for every shot. StarCaddy software displays a digital map of the course on your PDA, using GPS to give you the exact distance to the green, sand traps, or any other course feature. Analyze the key elements of the course to improve your club selection and game with just a tap on your Palm or PocketPC PDA.

StarCaddy helps golfers Choose the Best Club For Every Shot!

Take the Guesswork Out of Your Game.
With GPS and a sophisticated digital map you can analyze the distance for every shot you make. Use StarCaddy to determine exact yardage to any course feature and take the guesswork out of your game.

Lay Up or Go For It? The Right Decision Every Time.
What's the landing area between two bunkers? Can you make it over the pond? With StarCaddy, there's no more worrying about hazards or long shots. With its precise measurement tool, you can judge distances perfectly and choose the perfect strategy every time.

X Marks the Spot.
When using a GPS Receiver, StarCaddy pinpoints your position on the course with an X. As you move, StarCaddy automatically zooms in to display increasing detail and the precise distance from you to the green at all times.

Keep Score with StarCaddy.
StarCaddy lets you track your game with precision. With a tap of the screen, you can view the tees, yardage and handicap for each hole. StarCaddy dynamically calculates In, Out and Total scores, tracks match status (including strokes given per hole) and will even record presses and side bets. So relax and let StarCaddy keep score for you or your foursome.

Play Any Course Like It's Your Home Course.
Stop trying to interpret maps and legends. StarCaddy's digital maps are accurate and easy to read. These maps are created from satellite and aerial imagery and are geo-referenced to be within one yard of actual position. And since StarCaddy can give you the exact distance to each course feature, every course, you can master the grounds in no time. Every course will feel like your home course!

Download your first StarCaddy course map for free!
Getting started with StarCaddy is easy! Check out all the digital course maps available at www.starcaddy.com, then pick the ones you want. Your first map is FREE with your purchase of StarCaddy. You can download detailed digital maps for the courses you play at home, on vacation or when you're traveling on business.

Use StarCaddy's MapManager to efficiently control your list of digital course maps. MapManager is a program for your desktop computer that installs StarCaddy on your PDA and lets you easily move your course maps on and off your PDA. MapManager stores your course maps when they're not in use and checks for FREE updates to the maps and the StarCaddy software.

StarCaddy is optimized with a GPS receiver.

According to an informal survey of golf pros, the average golfer loses as many as six strokes per round to incorrect club selection. StarCaddy uses GPS satellite technology to give golfers the information needed to choose the right club every time and pick up strokes without practice.

Star Caddy for PDA w/ GPS Receiver and Software

System requirements for the desktop PC:
OS: Win 95/98/2000/ME/XP (Home or Professional)/NT
Internet Access required: IE 5.0 or higher OR Netscape 4.0 or higher
Sync Software: Active Sync 3.1 or higher (for Pocket PC models)
PalmDesktop 3.1 or higher (for Palm OS models)

วันศุกร์ที่ 21 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2550

GPS - Basic Definition

1.Basic Definition of GPS
By James D. Allen

GPS (Global Positioning Systems) have been around for quite some time now. Its first use was with the military, but they have more recently been associated with civilian navigation devices. The latter is the topic of this discussion.

There are three components necessary for the success of a Global Positioning System. Those components are made up of 24 satellites, GPS Receivers, and ground stations. Each component must work in harmony or there will be inaccurate readings. A brief description of each and their functionality follows.

GPS Receivers act just as their name indicates. They receive information from the chosen satellites using radio waves to calculate their exact location. Once this information has been received, feedback is provided to the user.

Ground stations have a two-fold operation. The first is to ensure the health of the satellite. The second is to respond to the satellite with its exact location. This location is very important as it is used to later determine the exact coordinates of a GPS device.

Satellites determine the coordinates of a GPS device using trilateration. Basically, three satellites use radio signals to determine the total distance from the GPS device. This can become very complicated because of a variety of interference possibilities. Therefore, most civilian GPS systems use additional satellites to increase accuracy.

GPS systems continue to grow in popularity. There is a belief they will one day be as common as the telephone or television. There is also a belief that the high popularity will help to push builders into furthering the technology with improvements much in the same way as the cellular phone in recent years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_D._Allen

2. How It Works
By David Stone

GPS or Global Positioning Systems are computer systems that use satellites in orbit around the globe to provide exact longitudinal and latitudinal position of the user. GPS units were originally designed by the Department of Defense for military purposes and are now used on the consumer level for day to day navigation. Some GPS units sell for less than $100.00 and as long as you have one and have a clear sight of the sky you will never be lost again. In fact most GPS receivers can pinpoint your location on the globe within about 50 feet. GPS units vary in price based on their quality and capabilities, so when shopping for one it is important to know what you are planning to use it for.

GPS systems are mostly used by consumers for two purposes, positioning and navigation. GPS units are placed on boats so boaters can have an idea of where they are in comparison to the shoreline. In cars they are more often equipped to provide directions to the driver from two different points. Some of the more expensive models come equipped with voice capabilities so that drivers don't even have to take their eyes off the road. Many handheld models are sold to outdoor enthusiasts for camping, hunting and hiking. These handheld models also range in price based on their capabilities and if the display comes in color or not.

Most GPS units will also provide you with some standard and useful information…..

· An Odometer (Distance you have traveled)
· Time you have been traveling
· A Speedometer (How fast you are currently traveling)
· Average speed for the journey
· A map of you trail so far
· E.T.A (Estimated time of arrival)

GPS units use four satellites orbiting the globe to triangulate your position on earth and can do so with extreme accuracy. If you are constantly lost behind the wheel or spend a lot of time in the outdoors purchasing a GPS unit might be the right move for you.

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

Handheld GPS

1. Handheld GPS
By Jason Gluckman

The Global Positioning System or GPS is a navigational system, which uses satellites and computers to determine position of a receiver on Earth. The G PS is the only satellite navigation system that is fully functional. It is a constellation of twenty-four satellites. These satellites radio signals to electronic GPS receivers. By doing so the satellites are able to find the correct location of the receivers. They get the exact longitude, latitude and altitude of the receiver. It works day and night and in all weather conditions. GPS was declared fully functional in 1985. GPS is used for navigating on land, sea and air. It is also used for research and information on topography.

Availability of better and cheaper GPS devices has led to extensive usage of GPS systems. A handheld GPS can be any small handheld device like a wristwatch or radio. GPS system helps by showing the way or the map of the area where a person is. It prevents the individual form getting lost in an unknown area. It gives the current location of the holder and also information on the surrounding area. The GPS user can get information about the area a person is in. For example, the place where he is currently at, the nearest hotel, petrol pump, hospital and so on. GPS watches can be fitted with a GPS receiver, which relays a signal to a central command center equipped with GPS software systems. The system can track the position of the wearer and transmit the information. A variety of such GPS phones and wristbands are now sold in the market. They are useful to mountain climbers and hikers.

GPS is one of the most useful technologies that has been developed in recent years. The accuracy of the GPS signal has improved steadily for the past 15 years and is expected to improve further. This can be achieved by using techniques such as differential GPS. GPS also gives an extremely precise time reference. Improvement in GPS systems will lead to further improvement in the field of navigation and others related to travel and surveilance.

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

2.GPS Handheld Mapping Devices - What Is The Difference?
By Dean Shainin

So many companies that offered GPS handheld mapping devices are operated today. Some of them are just among those many outstanding GPS handheld mapping providers such as Magellan, Garmin, Lowrance, and much more.

For those who are interested to acquire some knowledge about some of those GPS handheld mapping devices that are widely used by many nowadays, try to look at some of the information below about a couple samples of GPS handheld mapping devices. Note that these are just among the many GPS handheld mapping devices that are out in the market today.

One of the outstanding GPS handheld mapping manufacturers and providers is the Magellan GPS Company. Magellan GPS devised one of their excellent GPS handheld mapping receivers and that is the Magellan SporTrak Map which is a Euro base map. This certain GPS handheld mapping device is a scraggy well-built, lightweight and compact GPS handheld mapping device that provides an exceptional benefit for the outdoor junkies. Aside from that interesting of feature, the Magellan SporTrak Map as a GPS handheld mapping device has an accuracy of about 3 meters and highlights a 2 MB European mapping database.

For much detail, the Magellan SporTrak Map as one of the outstanding GPS handheld mapping devices has a free memory that is 6 MB for favors for downloading street-level maps. Besides of being a GPS handheld mapping device, the Magellan SporTrak Map contains seven huge graphical navigation displays for the adventure junkie to fully and clearly view all the details stored in such GPS handheld mapping device. With this certain GPS handheld mapping receiver, I am sure that you will gain something that will add a new level of pleasure to your adventure.

Another noticeable GPS handheld mapping receiver is the Garmin GPSMAP 76 unit. The Garmin GPS Company has designed this GPS handheld mapping receiver to give those adventure enthusiasts concrete GPS positioning through the correction data gathered from the Wide Area Augmentation System. This smart GPS handheld mapping receiver highlights a built-in quad helix antenna for an exceptional coverage and this particular GPS handheld mapping device can offer accurate position to less than three meters when acquiring WAAS adjustments.

Besides, the Garmin GPSMAP 76 as one of the notable GPS handheld mapping devices has an internal memory that is capable of eight megabytes for obtaining optional MapSource which is detailed maps, including some marine cartographic sketches. Lastly, this GPS handheld mapping device is capable of storing exact details about the worldwide cities and the nautical navigation aids.

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

Wireless Telematics

By Graham Ward

Global Positioning System, GPS, was conceived by the US military and originally designed as a navigation aid. Today the system is extensively used in various sectors of our life. GPS tracking uses the concept of wireless telematics and triangulation to exactly pinpoint the position of the concerned object. This calculation is done on the basis of a set of coordinates that represent the location of the object.

Some of the most important applications of this innovative technology are GPS surveying and GPS mapping along with GPS Tracking devices. Uses of GPS Satellite Tracking

• GPS helps in navigation of vehicles of all types or even when you are traveling on foot.

• GPS assists vehicle drivers to find their way if they are lost provided their vehicle is fitted with the GPS device.

• GPS is also used in cell phones, car computers, vehicle tracking system, Automatic Vehicle Location etc.

• GPS is widely used in military as it helps in targeting precision guided munitions and cruise missiles in addition to providing visibility of where armed vehicles are located etc.

GPS Tracking works on the principle of “triangulation”. The GPS tracking device uses wireless telematics and consists of a GPS software, GPS receiver etc. The GPS phones use cell phone technology while the GPS watches use radio waves to transmit their individual locations. SupaTrak offers a simple to use, low cost tracking solution and one of the most cost effective wireless telematics solutions available. You get 60 second updates as a standard feature along with covert vehicle installation, web browser mapping, unlimited user access to mapping and combined GSM/GPRS antenna etc. You also have the option of upgrading to integrated CAN bus or the CMS Mobile Worker applications. You therefore have a product that is future proof, cost effective, upgradeable and one which can be easily adapted to your specific business needs.

Wireless Telematics is one of the most important components of this Satellite Tracking system. This innovative and intelligent technology has offered a wide range of interesting applications and amazing solutions.

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

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 20 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2550

How Accurate is GPS?

By Dagfinn Rognerud

Today's GPS receivers are extremely accurate, thanks to parallel multi-channel design. Garmin's 12 parallel channel receivers are quick to lock onto satellites when first turned on and they maintain strong locks, even in dense foliage or urban settings with tall houses. Certain atmospheric factors and other sources of error can affect the accuracy of GPS receivers. Garmin® GPS receivers are accurate to 10-15 meters on average. Newer Garmin GPS receivers with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) capability can improve the accuracy to less than three meters on average. No additional equipment or any fees are required to take advantage of WAAS. Users can also get even better accuracy with Differential GPS (DGPS), which corrects GPS signals to within an average of three to five meters. The U.S. Coast Guard operates the most common DGPS correction service. This system consists of a network of towers that receive GPS signals and transmit a corrected signal by beacon transmitters. In order to get the corrected signal, users must have a differential beacon receiver and beacon antenna in addition to their GPS.

The 18-24 satellites that make up the GPS space segment are orbiting the earth about 12,000 miles above us. They are constantly moving, making two complete orbits in less than 24 hours. These satellites are travelling at speeds of roughly 7,500 miles an hour.

GPS satellites are powered by solar energy only. They have backup batteries onboard to keep them running in the event of a solar eclipse, when there's no solar power. Small rocket boosters on each satellite keep them flying in the correct path.
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