|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Home | Communications | Gps The need for traditional maps and navigational devices has virtually disappeared since GPS devices hit the market. Now, travelers can simply refer to the GPS screen to access clear direction on where they need to go. GPS receivers are small electronic devices that work by calculating your precise location on earth. This location is found by decoding signals received from satellites in outer space. Using additional electronics and software, it's then possible for the GPS to pinpoint an exact location on a map. This incredible technology is available at a relatively small price. When paired with other mobile communication devices, such as PDAs, a GPS unit becomes even more useful. A PDA is a popular consumer communication product that combines a cellular phone with an organizer and Internet access. PDAs have hard drive space that makes them the perfect companions to GPS units. This hard drive space can be used for storing maps, and the colored screens are ideal for displaying maps. With their small size, it's easy to see why so many travelers choose to use PDAs over laptop computers and other bulkier options. There is sometimes a problem with the integration of GPS receivers with PDAs. Connection between the two units is usually made using either conventional USB wires, or a CompactFlash (CF) CARD. The size of the GPS and PDA units together, and added to the added bulk of the CF card, can create a cumbersome traveler's tool. On the other hand, using USB wires is inconvenient and limits the overall usability of the navigation device. Many people, therefore, are turning to Bluetooth technology as the perfect traveler's companion. Rescued by Bluetooth Bluetooth wireless technology has become the open standard for wireless communication. Using Bluetooth technology, two electronic devices are able to communicate with each other, sending a receiving signals and transferring data, from up to ten meters away. The beauty of this technology is that the information is transmitted completely wire-free. Bluetooth GPS Receivers A Bluetooth GPS receiver is an electronic device that uses wireless technology (namely, Bluetooth electronics) to transmit GPS data. The data is transmitted to a second wireless device, such as a PDA, that is capable of handling the technology. For example, a GPS receiver can wirelessly transmit data to a PDA handset, but only if they are both enabled with Bluetooth capabilities. In addition to the ease and convenience of avoiding bulky CompactFlash cards and messy wires, there are other benefits to using Bluetooth technology with your GPS/PDA combination: Flexible Freedom It's not always best to have your PDA and your GPS receiver located in the same position. Without wires to bind the devices, you can position your PDA and GPS separately in the most strategic locations, to provide the best results. For example, if you are using your GPS while driving, you can position the Bluetooth GPS receiver in a spot where it has a clear view of the sky, while mounting the PDA to your dashboard where you have a clear view of the screen. There are no wires to get in the way of your vision, or hamper your driving in any way. CompactFlash Slot Space Using a Bluetooth GPS with a PDA means that there is no use for a CompactFlash. The empty CompactFlash slot can then be used as a storage space for maps or software to optimize the navigation of your GPS. There are other benefits to using GPS equipment. Many Bluetooth GPS receivers offer companion features, such as a "Points of Interest" (POI) database, route re-calculation function and pre-stored maps. Shop around to learn as much as you can, and compare models to find the one that suits you best. Your GPS will likely soon become a trusted travel companion. Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com
Rainer Cassell is a regular columnist for some of today's most popular web sites, on product and technology themes.
|
  RSS Feeds by Category |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
