The Global Positioning System – or GPS – has transformed how the world finds its way. It’s no secret that the popularity of GPS has made it a standard feature in many a car. But in truth there are quite a number of GPS devices that are used in today’s modern society. What began as a government experiment and then a standard device used by the military, is now more popular than ever in civilian society.
When Russia launched Sputnik in the late 1950’s we had our first glimpse into the role that satellites would play in our future. Those who were monitoring Sputnik found that they were able to pinpoint its location based on the radio waves it provided. The seeds of GPS were born.
In the 1960s the U.S. Navy began experimenting with the technology, using the positioning of six satellites to help missile-carrying Navy submarines pinpoint their location. But the Global Positioning System that we know today was designed and implemented by the United States Department of Defense; the first operational satellite was launched in 1978 and by the mid 1990s there were 24 satellites – all of which are still in operation today.
The byproduct of this new technology has been GPS devices, designed to harness the power of satellite navigation to offer the highest level of convenience. It seems as though every year more GPS devices hit the shelves and in so doing they become part of what’s expected in society. The types of GPS devices are varied and your choice to use them depends largely on your frequency of need.
One of the more popular GPS devices is GPS mapping that allows you to visit any number of websites and enter any address in the world. If satellites have access to this area, you are immediately given a satellite picture showing the precise location you requested. For mapping trips, these GPS devices can take information downloaded from your computer and put it to use in your car, giving you detailed directions for the most expedient trip.
Another one of the more popular GPS devices is a GPS navigational unit. These units can either be mounted in your car or come in a portable system that you can transfer from vehicle to vehicle. Once a destination is entered into the GPS navigational system, it can literally walk you through your trip telling you where to turn and the time and distance relative to each portion of the drive. Some navigational units offer a feature whereby you can find restaurants, shopping, hospitals, and accommodations regardless of where you are; this can be incredibly useful when hunting services in a town with which you are unfamiliar.
GPS tracking, another of the GPS devices, allows you to track another person or thing. Many parents use GPS tracking in the cars of their teenage drivers. Others use this system to help protect precious items that are in danger of being stolen.
No matter which of the GPS devices you choose, you will no doubt find GPS to be an essential part of your life before long.
By: Michelle Bery
Posts Tagged ‘Operational Satellite’
Types Of GPS Devices
December 29th, 2009Posted in Article
Tags: 1960s Byproduct Department Of Defense First Glimpse Global Positioning System Government Experiment Gps Devices Mid 1990s Navy Submarines New Technology Operational Satellite Precise Location Radio Waves Satellite Navigation Satellite Picture Satellites Sputnik U S Navy United States Department United States Department Of Defense
Using A GPS Receiver
December 23rd, 2009
As the Global Positioning System – or GPS – continues to rise in popularity, a host of GPS-related products continue to hit the shelves. The GPS receiver is an interactive map that can show you exactly where you are at all times; this can be enormously helpful when finding your way around unfamiliar surroundings.
GPS was initially launched by the United States Department of Defense in the late 70’s when the first operational satellite was sent into space. By the mid-90’s, 24 satellites circled the earth and continue to be in operation today. What was originally designed for use exclusively for the military, now functions as a navigational system for military and civilians alike. More and more consumers, eager to take advantage of the timely and accurate information supplied by this network of satellites, choose to have GPS navigational systems included as standard equipment in their new vehicles.
But portable GPS has become just as popular. The GPS receiver is a compact navigational system that literally fits in the palm of your hand. The GPS receiver interfaces with the government’s network of satellites and can instantly perform a series of latitudinal and longitudinal calculations that can precisely target the user’s location. The screen of the GPS receiver displays a map of the area – including roads, landmarks, and other points of reference – and the user’s location in relation to it.
For outdoor hobbyists the GPS receiver has been enormously beneficial, allowing them to navigate possibly unfamiliar terrain without ever losing their bearings. Travelers who may not be using one particular car can still access satellite navigational information through the use of the GPS receiver.
The GPS receiver comes in a variety of styles and is manufactured by numerous companies. The models can be differentiated largely by price and included features. 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. While this particular GPS receiver will likely come at a greater price, it could be well worth the investment to ensure safe and enjoyable travel. It’s wise to research each GPS receiver before you make a purchasing decision. But no matter which model you choose, you will likely find a GPS receiver to be a convenience you become used to very quickly.
By: Michelle Bery
Posted in Article
Tags: Bearings Civilians Department Of Defense Global Positioning System Gps Map Gps Navigational Systems Gps Receiver Hobbyists Interactive Map Landmarks Navigational System New Vehicles Operational Satellite Palm Of Your Hand Satellites Shelves Unfamiliar Surroundings Unfamiliar Terrain United States Department United States Department Of Defense
