What Are GPS Systems and What Are They Good For?

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

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

What are GPS Cell Phones?

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!

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

Using GPS Tracking to Protect Your Vehicles

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/

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

Tracking Schoolchildren with RFID Technology

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

Rocky Mountain Tracking in the News

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

Protect Your Construction Equipment With GPS Auto Tracker Technology

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.

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

GPS Tracking Helps Reduce Teen Driving Fatalities

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

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

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

TomTom GPS Receiver - Technology in Your Hand

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.

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

Tom Tom Go 520 - A Real Path Finder

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

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