A Guide to Purchase GPS Navigation Systems

The GPS network was first launched by the US Department of Defense in 1973. This network first consisted of twenty four satellites that orbited the earth every twelve hours, along with five ground stations. They were then made available for public use which meant that people could now determine their location, as well as speed, and elevation. In order to get a reliable 3D fix, the GPS devices need to have an unobstructed view of four or more satellites.

A typical GPS tracking device will be made of: - A 12 channel receiver - Antenna that can capture a satellite signal - A CPU that can process the data and show it on maps - A DVD Hard-drive - Display screen - And a voice interface.

The first time you use your new GPS device it will have a blank data store. It needs to first connect to a satellite in order to determine your position, which is known as a cold start. Some will take between 30 and 45 seconds to get this first 3D fix, but others could take a few minutes. In the future, it will only take a few seconds to gain position.

How GPS Navigation Units Differ

The location of the antenna may differ on various machines. It needs to have an un-obstructed view into the machine, and many portable versions will have a suction cup mounting device to allow you to position it correctly on the windshield. Add on antennas are also available, but the important thing is that it is always left with vision to the greatest area of sky as possible.

The input buttons may also differ, and most will be on the display screen. You should make sure that they are easy to use when you are driving.

The screens and the display of the unity will differ, and it is important that you check the brightness so that they will always be visible in bright daylight. These screens will usually be color, but some may come in black and white as a way of saving power. The larger screens will often integrate with other electronics.

The in-dash systems will often be more expensive than the portable versions. They will also require professional installation. When you are buying, make sure you understand how easy it is to update the firmware and maps on your unit. Some allow you to connect to your computer through USB or DVD.

Further Benefits of GPS Units

GPS units don't just give you your current position, but they also come with a number of features including showing where you have been, how to get to your destination, saving some of your most common journeys, and giving you traffic information - to name a few!

The major downside of using onboard GPS navigation units is that they are a target for thieves, and also that you cannot transfer them to other vehicles. The portable versions are able to be used with multiple cars and are easy to move.