Posts Tagged ‘Palm Of Your Hand’

GPS Navigation

March 4th, 2010



I remember driving around not wanting to stop at the corner store and get directions. Ahh, the good ole days.

That is exactly what they are becoming thanks for GPS car navigation devices. Unless you just got of the boat from Antarctica then you are fully aware of just how cool these devices are.

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. This is a system developed by our friends at the Department of Defense. It uses a grid of many satellites to triangulate positions anywhere in the world.

Our tax dollars really did the trick this time too because these devices can put you within 10 feet of the exact location. Pretty amazing.

Now, GPS car navigation devices come in different sizes and have different features. Most commonly you have the systems that come built-in to your car when it was made. Those usually have a larger popup screen and cost a lot more money.

The other is the portable kind. These devices and have a decent size screen and can literally fit in the palm of your hand. The great advantage to this is that they for one are inexpensive, and two can plug into any car using the cigarette lighter.

Now a days $150 gets you precise GPS navigation… instantly!

The benefits to having a GPS car navigation device are plain to see.

It can save you a ton of gas. All those U-turns and miles going in the wrong direction are not exactly free. Last time I checked it cost me money for every mile I put on my car.

It can also save you a ton of time. This not only translates right back to saving you money, but also a lot of frustration. Having the route mapped out in front of you makes driving more pleasurable. Not to mention that shorter routes are often figured out for you.

Lastly, it can help you avoid traffic. These slick little units can spit out alternate routes in about 10 seconds. Dodging all that accident traffic has never felt better or been so easy.

For the cost they are today I would highly suggest picking one up. It is quickly becoming one of those items that we will all wonder how we lived without years from now. Remember life before the microwave?

By: Cathy Seiler

Magellan GPS Product Information

January 19th, 2010



Global Positioning Systems have taken the world by storm. Those who use a navigation system rely upon its accurate directional services. Magellan GPS is one of the more popular brands of navigation products and can be bought at just about any electronics store.

GPS utilizes the government’s network of satellites that consistently circle the earth, providing timely and accurate logistical information. It was designed in the late 1970’s by the US Department of Defense to be used as a reliable navigational tool for the military. However today, it has become main-stream, finding its way to consumers through a variety of suitable systems. Global positioning system receivers are hand-held units that fit into the palm of your hand. These portable systems have the ability to connect to the global positioning satellites which, through a series of calculations based on longitude and latitude can instantly and accurately pinpoint the user’s location. The screen of the receiver will then illustrate a map of the area, including landmarks, terrains, roads, and places your location relative to these points of reference. Those who travel and enjoy outdoor activities like camping and hiking have found the Magellan GPS receivers to be very useful in providing accurate navigation and ensuring safety.

Lots of people prefer to use the Magellan navigation system as a hand-held device, where others prefer to use it as a navigational device that they mount in their vehicles. It uses a destination address supplied by the driver to efficiently navigate the driving route. Also, if your vehicle is stolen, it can be effectively tracked by the signals sent by the Magellan GPS.

The prices vary depending on the number of features offered by each system. You can also find lots of information online detailing the different global positionig systems, including price, features, and user reviews. Make sure you take the time to research any GPS before you purchase.

By: B Green

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