How GPS Works

09 August 2005

GPS stands for global positioning system, a system that has been established and is managed by the Department of Defense. The GPS system utilizes satellites that have been put into orbit that help people determine their exact positioning on the planet—whether it be for the purposes of navigation, for the purposes of military uses, or any type of enterprise that requires an exact global positioning by latitude, longitude and altitude. In fact, sometimes GPS systems are installed in vehicles, and some are installed in fishing boats. Finally, some GPS systems are fixed into position wherever they are installed, while some are portable.

GPS systems can also be purchased for motorcycles, and hikers sometimes use such systems to determine where they are while hiking. Cyclists should not be left out of the mix, and runners, joggers, and skiers use navigation systems to prevent themselves from becoming lost in an unfamiliar area. Some PDAs –personal digital assistances are equipped with built in navigation devices, while some Palm devices also include such systems.

Navigation systems are sold with a variety of features and what kind of features you should look for is solely dependent on two factors—price and need. The most basic of navigation systems will provide you with a route—from one waypoint to another waypoint or to multiple waypoints—depending on your destination and trip plan. A benefit of such navigation systems is that they not only serve as a guide to your preplanned destination, they also serve as guide back to where you started—any plan you route in a navigation system is completely reversible thanks to the innovative design of navigation systems.

Alternatively, you may pay more money for a navigation system that has voice capabilities. You can purchase a navigation system that will guide you to your destination vocally and while speaking to you the navigation system will offer up a turn-by-turn dictation of your journey. Conversely, those individuals that spend the majority of their time traveling—like a delivery man may find that they prefer a navigation system that they can preplan many destinations at one time and then move from one set of directions to another respectively. Thus, such individuals require a uniquely designed navigation system—one that possesses multi destination capabilities. Finally, there are different navigation systems for boats, motorcycles, cars, and joggers so you will need to be sure to purchase the product you require for the use in which you intend.

Navigation systems can be easily ordered online from online distributors. If you are interested in purchasing one or more navigation systems you may want to read the myriad reviews offered pertaining to such products before you make your purchase. In doing so, you will have a better idea of the various brands available and what other people recommend. Also, you will find complete reviews that will allow you to engage in comparative shopping—this way you know you will be able to find the best navigation system to meet your needs at a price that suits your budget.