GPS

When the Soviet Space Program successfully sent Sputnik into orbit in’57, the so-called free world was in a panic. Congress reacted with swiftness reserved for a national crisis. Indeed, for many Americans, the perceived superiority of the Soviet program was tantamount to a crisis. President Eisenhower moved quickly to establish both NASA and DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) in’58.

NASA moved quickly for the American public when it launched the Explorer 1 satellite on January 31,’58. Led by the former head of the German rocket program, Wernher von Braun, NASA immediately began to explore the possibility of sending human beings into space. Dubbed Project Mercury, this program involved seven original astronauts, of whom, Alan Shepard became the first American into space, while John Glenn would become the first American to orbit the earth.

For decades the GPS system was classified and reserved only for military and governmental use. Then, in’83, a Soviet interceptor aircraft shot down the civilian Korean Air airliner KAL 007, killing all 269 people on board. The plane had strayed into Soviet airspace and although the Soviet had probable cause to destroy the perceived threat, it was determined had the airliner had accurate navigational systems, the tragedy could have been avoided. President Ronald Reagan subsequently announced that civilians and civilian agencies should have access to the GPS tracking systems.

The system involved the use of satellites to track the position and location of both spacecraft and intercontinental ballistic missiles. Initially developed by the Navy, the first successful GPS tracking system was dubbed Transit, and used five satellites to triangulate positions around the globe. It was soon capable of tracking intercontinental ballistic missles moving at incredibly high rates of speed.

Law enforcement uses GPS tracking to find stolen cars and keep tabs on criminals on bail or probation. Now, not only can someone find where they are on a city grid, but also he or she can find nearby businesses and restaurants. Now, most people consider GPS devices to be ubiquitous. It has become an integral part of modern 21st Century culture. Not only has it become the preeminent navigational system for cars, but the scientific community has used it to track wild and domestic animals and migration patterns.

Locating a GPS tracking device these days is as easy as looking at your cell phone one.

Technorati Tags: GPS, Gps Tracking Device

Today, you can find a GPS system in almost every new car model, on cell phones, and several other devices. The Global Positioning System (GPS) has become the de facto navigation system for the entire world. While it wasn’t always available to the public, it has quickly evolved as the favorite means of navigation by nearly everyone. Where did the GPS system come from and how does it work?

Global position systems were developed by the United States military to effectively trace the flight of intercontinental ballistic missiles. In’83, after a Korean passenger flight was shot down by Russia jet fighters for inadvertently violating Russian airspace,Ronald Reagan made it available to the private sector. He was convinced, perhaps rightly so, that it could be used to prevent future catastrophes. It has since evolved into more than a military positioning device.

In theory, global positioning is simple to comprehend. The U.S. government has approximately 30 satellites in orbit at any given moment. These satellites send out a constant stream of microwave signals back down towards the earth. A GPS tracking system on the ground receives the signal from the satellite. It then calculates the exact position, direction, and speed of itself based on these signals. Each time the receiver gets a signal from the satellite, the new calculations are made immediately then relayed as coordinates.

One of the newest devices to get GPS capabilities is the iPhone. Having detailed maps in your cell phone opens up a world of possibilities for everyone. Today, a great number of cars are equipped with GPS tracking systems. They tend to be reasonably priced and easy to install. They can all provide turn-by-turn directions to any contiguous location. Most are even voice enabled, telling you to “turn at the next right” so you can keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Indeed, GPS is extraordinarily useful. To say global positioning technology is useful is about as insightful as saying a hammer is useful. If you’re lost, you will certainly be grateful for it. GPS devices are affordable conveniences that are now poised to become as ubiquitous as hammers. Navigate your way home, no matter where life takes you.

Drivers, guardians, and businesses that need GPS tracking systems as a matter of course are encouraged to find the right model for the right occasion.

Technorati Tags: GPS, Gps Devices, Gps Tracking System, Gps Tracking Systems

When you come across the brand “Casio”, the word “watch” immediately follows in your mind, for Casio has long been one of the most recognizable watch companies in our era. The company is generally associated with its practical and fashionable watches, worn by folks from all walks of life. Another nice model is the Suunto Vector Wrist-Top Computer Watch.

Whenever you plan on shopping for a watch which is fashionable as well as reliable with regards to showing the correct time, then Casio must be the name for you. Casio designs are unique and are diverse enough to be used for different life styles. However, the mention of words “Casio GPS watch” is not quite so familiar. What is a Casio GPS watch?

A Casio GPS watch is a watch for walkers which enables them to keep an eye on their current place and course, in addition to enabling them to track their speed and distance for various outdoor hobbies. Casio GPS watches are available in different styles which live up to the expectations of the most discerning consumers. For the use of interested parties, several of their most recent models are outlined below.

The Casio GPR- 100

The Casio GPR-100, the most compact GPS compatible chronometer, was introduced to the public in the last few months. Advertised as the world’s smallest GPS capable watch, it comes with all the benefits found in each Casio watch as well as the cutting edge technology of a GPS. The GPR-100 is waterproof, which means it is perfect for swimming. It interfaces with GPS satellites to monitor speed and distance, while at the same time figuring your route for times when you leave your intended course. This watch also includes an automatic calendar, stop watch, alarm and backlit display for after dark. The GPR-100 is powered by a lithium battery whose life depends upon the battery capacity. However, since the battery is diminutive like the watch, it will only enable the GPS for only 2 to 4 hours. You may also want to look at the Suunto Vector Wrist-Top Computer Watch.

The PAT 2 GP-IV

Another GPS watch called the PAT 2 GP-IV is powered by a built-in rechargeable lithium ion battery. Intended as the upgraded Satellite NAVI watch, it is made to be much lighter and less cumbersome than previous GPS watches. Casio’s exclusive PC linking software allows the user to input GPS data from the watch and compile it in a personal computer. You could plot a beginning location, a landmark or two and final position on the computer screen. Similar to the GPR 100, this timepiece is resistant to moisture which includes the occasional dunking, body fluids and other sources. The PAT 2 GP-IV watch, since it is compact and light weight, is not particularly bulky and is easily strapped to the runner’s arm. The rechargeable batteries remove the complications of battery replacement.

The Pro-Trek Navi Satellite

Considered as the prototype GPS watch, the Pro-Trek Navi Satellite GPS watch is equipped with many much sought-after features, some of which are a less obtrusive design, rechargeable batteries and water resistant engineering. Several other useful functions make this a well-appointed device for athletes. Landmarks could be entered in this device to identify locations. This device can even record satellite almanac data in its memory. That information can be referenced when necessary to determine the exact coordinates of the satellite, thus conserving time and battery power. When the placement of the satellite is fixed, your location is automatically worked out. The Suunto Vector Wrist-Top Computer Watch is another nice unit to consider.

The Casio GPS watches grant outdoor sports enthusiasts just what they want now that everyone’s budget is tight; a well-made, intelligent electronic device which earns its keep. A Casio GPS watch is a chronometer, compass, GPS unit, and running partner who won’t trail behind.

Browse over to Joseph’s site for reviews, ratings and lowest price shopping of the Suunto Vector Wrist-Top Computer Watch.

Technorati Tags: fishing, golfing, GPS, hiking, outdoors, recreation, Running, sports, technology

Have you heard the buzz about the Forerunner 305? This popular GPS sports watch is the talk of the town and is receiving a lot of praise from athletes looking for better way to manage a more effective workout. Is the Garmin Forerunner 305 really that great? Learn all about this new device and how it can help athletes achieve more in this Garmin Forerunner 305 review.

Outdoor athletes, bikers, runners and anyone looking for a quality workout will appreciate the many features of the Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS sports watch. This device features information at your fingertips such as speed, distance, and heart rate at a glance.

With tools like this, the Garmin Forerunner 305 is much more than just a device - it is a sophisticated training assistant. Planning your workouts in advance and charting your progress is as easy as using the included Garmin Training Center software on your computer. You can plan workouts or analyze and chart data to identify progress and more using the Training Center.

Of course, what good would all of the features be if the device didn’t become a natural part of your workout? Fortunately, this is where Garmin really excels. The Forerunner 305 GPS has an amazingly clear and crisp large display that is configurable to be best for you. All of your information is visible or just a click away, making it comfortable and not distracting like electronic training assistants of the past.

One new advancement in the Forerunner 305 is the SiRFstar III GPS receiver. This update makes satellite locking faster than ever before. A reliable satellite lock is possible, even under heavy terrain and thick underbrush.

Whats the verdict? The Garmin Forerunner 305 is a sophisticated training tool that takes portable workout data to a whole new level. Athletes of all types will find this device a useful tool that can improve your workout - making you train smarter easier than ever before.

What does the Garmin Forerunner 305 cost? Less than you’d expect considering the features! At retail, the 305 will run you almost $300. If you are savvy and shop around online, you can find best prices for 40% less than that or better.

Looking for a GREAT deal on the Garmin Forerunner 305 - Visit http://www.Forerunner305.net for the best prices and FREE shipping on the Forerunner 305!

Technorati Tags: electronics, fitness, GPS, product review, review

Satellite technology has made possible Global Positioning Systems, also known as GPS. They are guided by 24 satellites placed by the U.S. Department of Defense, originally for military operations. In the 1980’s, the U.S. government opened up the system for civilian use. Global Positioning Systems have become increasingly popular for numerous applications since that time.

GPS works in any weather conditions, in almost any location, and at any time. Since GPS depends on signal reception, it does not work inside caves, tunnels, buildings or under water. Using it does not require a subscription fee or setup charge-it’s available free to anyone who wants to use it.

Applications

Many automobiles now have built-in GPS. Some auto GPS units by Garmin and other manufacturers contact emergency assistance, while other systems also provide location and direction information. GPS use for consumer applications continues to increase. As the efficiency and accuracy of GPS have increased, the cost of surveying and the setup time have decreased. GPS is heavily used by forest rangers and farmers. The precise locational information is very useful to biologists, geologists, surveyors and other scientists. Commercial fishermen, and professional mariners use GPS.

Drivers and dispatchers use it to improve customer service and fleet tracking. GPS is an essential component of emergency response, disaster relief and public safety. In the air, GPS improves pilot communication, navigation, and hazard avoidance. Even space exploration has been revolutionized by GPS.

Recreational uses of GPS navigation systems continue to expand. Hikers, hunters, snowmobile drivers, fishermen, and boaters use it. GPS is useful for anyone wishing to keep track of where they are or figure out how to get from point A to B. The worldwide activity of geocaching would not be possible without GPS. Even golf has not been left unaffected by GPS as it tells golfers how hard they have to swing for reaching the holes.

Equipment

Sophistication ranges from entry-level devices suitable for recreational use, to cutting edge technology for high Earth orbit missions. Enhanced technology is making GPS more available within heavy foliage environments. The increasing integration of GPS into cell phones improves emergency response and popularizes its technology.

The newest auto GPS units are both more sophisticated and more user friendly than earlier systems. Manufacturer support and guarantees cover all the issues that can possibly go wrong.

With many choices of GPS receivers now available, consumer reviews also inform purchases. To purchase a new or refurbished receiver, one can turn to the Internet which is a authoritative resource for information on GPS technology. For this growing technology that is fast becoming part of every day life, a lot of technical websites are dedicated to inform the public.

Michael D. Torc is a C programmer, a member of Mensa and a GPS enthusiast. For information on top of the line auto GPS units, visit his website: http://www.auto-gps-units.com.

Technorati Tags: electronics, gadgets, GPS, Navigation, technology, wireless