GPS Systems and Reviews

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Things to consider before buying a portable GPS device

portable gps
Portable gps devices are quite convenient.  You can take them anywhere.  This is the number one reason why many people wants one, especially those who are into such sporting activities such as hiking, hunting or camping.  

Since they are affordable many more people are able to buy them now.  Yet, before you go off and buy one you should consider a few things.

First, you should understand how a GPS device works.  GPS stands for global positioning system.  It works through a computer system and satellites which orbits the Earth.  Together, these computers and satellites can pinpoint a precise destination, person or find directions to a certain spot.   They can do these by tracking simple radio, computer or other modem technologies. 

GPS systems was first introduced by the Defense Department for military purposes.  But now they have advanced to the consumer market as well.

A portable gps system is one that can be carried around easily or moved from point to point easily.  They can come in a number of sizes.  They also have a variety of capabilities. Of course, the more functions a unit has, the chances are the more expensive it is to purchase.

Before you go shopping for your next or first portable GPS device, it is a good idea to actually think about the capabilities or functions that are actually necessary for you and your needs.   By doing this, you may be able to fight the urge to buy a more expensive model, with extra functions, that aren’t really necessary for your use.

One thing you should realize is the fact that you may have to purchase a higher price device to get a good signal.  All GPS systems must have a clear access to the sky in able to work properly.  If buildings, trees or vegetation blocks that access, the system can not function or signals will drop off and on.   If you plan on spending a lot of time in these types of areas (for instance hiking in a forest), then you may need to purchase a GPS device that has a higher frequency level and this means that it will more than likely have a higher price tag as well.

What else should you consider?

What about the time in which it takes the GPS device to start?  Some systems, even the portable ones, will start quicker than others.  Some have what is considered a long or cold start up time.  This means it could take a few minutes before it is up and running.  Are you the patient type?  Will this annoy to no extreme?   Inquire about the start up time when purchasing a model.

What about the time it takes to charge the battery or batteries?  Most portable GPS devices will run off of the common AAA battery or a built in rechargeable battery.   You should inquire about how long it takes for the battery to charge and the estimate time of life for the battery or battery charge.  Generally, the first charge will take the longest amount of time.

Mapping capabilities is definitely a consideration that must not be overlooked.  This is how you will find your way from place to place.  You need to not only be able to understand it.  You need to like the size of the screen, the format, the color and even the style.   Colored screens usually cost more than the black and white ones do.  But most people prefer these because they say they are easier to understand and read.

You should also inquire about how the unit is able to update its mapping functions.  The two basic ways that portable GPS devices do this is by connecting to a computer or a flash memory card.  (Generally speaking those units that can connect to the computer to update their map functions are usually cheaper than those that uses flash memory cards).

You should also consider the type of device you want.  You can choose from such devices as:

Pocket sized portable GPS which usually runs from recharegable batteries.  These can also be used in automobiles.

PDA’s devices which are equipped with GPS capabilities.  These usually run on rechargeable batteries.

Cell phones that are equipped with GPS capabilities.   These are also run from rechargeable batteries.

If you are considering buying a new or your first portable GPS system, you will be glad to know that you won’t need to hire anyone to install anything.  You just turn the system on and it is ready to go.  You also don’t have to pay any activation fees or monthly payments.  If you choose to purchase a subscription such as traffic information, satellite or weather information, then you will have a subscription price.

Your final consideration is this.  Would a portable GPS system make you feel more secure the next time you are out on the hiking trail or looking for that cool vacation site?

 

 

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GPS Tracking may keep your child safe

GPS tracking

By now you know some of the advantages of owning GPS devices.  You probably know that they can help you find directions while driving.  You might even know that they are great for runners to track their next course.   You may even know that they come in both hand held portable units as well as the dash mounted kind.  But did you know that buying a GPS tracking unit may help you to keep your child safe?

Yes, a tracking unit is just what it implies.  A unit that can help you track a person or object.  How does it work?

The GPS unit stands for Global Positioning System.  This unit works with computers and orbiting satellities.  Together, they can pinpoint addresses and track radio, computer, cellular or other satellite waves.   This is how the system works to keep your child safe. 

First, you must have a GPS unit and receiver.  The receiver is able to read the signals that are sent through the GPS unit and through orbiting satellites.  After it reads the signals, it can display the current location, address and even speed and direction of an object or person.  This information can then be displayed through the receiver itself or through another computer, even one in another location. 

When tracking a child, most parents prefer to use such devices as tracking watches (especially for younger children) or cell phones with an enabled GPS function.  These devices allows the parent to know exactly where a child is.  This is especially helpful if an emergency situation should arise such as the child getting lost, the child being abducted or when the child strays from an area in which the parent feels he or she is safe.

These tracking devices sometimes have additional features that parents like such as:

Being able to monitor a child’s heart rate or body temperature
Setting a safe zone area for the child and an alert system that will tell the parent when the child exits this safe area
Being able to locate the child in minutes and finding his or her location in real time

What many parents also likes is the fact that the receivers themselves many times will show an exact map of the area the child is traveling.  This makes it easier to pinpoint his/her location.  These units will also allow a parent to use any computer to also bring up a map that will dispaly the current location of the child.

Most parents who uses tracking devices to monitor their children’s whereabouts, do not let their children know of this secret.  If they did, they realize that even though the said child may love his/her cell phone, there is a possibility that they will leave it behind on purpose to keep the parent from knowing where he/she is at all times.  This means an emergency may occur and your child would not be protected.

A side note that many people wonder about is whether a cell phone can still be tracked if it is turned off.  The answer is yes.  Even though, most parents do not fear that his/her child would ever turn one off, anyway.

Tracking devices are also beneficial for parents to use on the automobiles that are being driven by newly licensed teenage drivers.  These tracker devices will allow the parents to know exactly where the child has drove by address, the speed in which he/she drove, the amount of time he/she spent at each destination, and possibly even an estimate of how long it should take for the child to drive safely from point a to point b. 

When using a tracking device to monitor a new driver, you can actually find out how the driver drives when you are not around watching.  This should automatically impress to the driver the importance of driving safely, which is beneficial to all.  

A tracking device on your automobile, would also come in handy if it is ever stolen.  All you would have to do is turn on your receiver, find out the location of the automobile and notify the police. 

Plus, when adding such devices to your automobiles, you may qualify for a discount.

Some may argue that tracking devices are an invasion of your child’s privacy.  Yet, why should your child have to hide his/her whereabouts in the first place.

If you fear for your child’s safety knowing you can’t be with him/her twenty-four seven, giving him/her a tracking watch or cell phone, may be your next best option and give you some peace of mind knowing you are doing all you can to keep your child safe.

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