The global positioning system is relatively new. The first experimental GPS satellite was launched in 1978. And the system wasn’t declared fully operational until 1995.
Despite this, GPS is in its second generation. And soon, GPS III, the third generation, will be in place. The first launch of GPS III satellites is scheduled for 2013. So, what can you expect from GPS III? The GPS satellites will transmit additional signals.
There will be new signals for both military and civilian use.The new signals will be stronger. That means you will get better reception on your Garmin GPS unit. Interference won’t be such an issue. And military signals will be less susceptible to jamming from adversaries.
The additional signals will also improve the accuracy of GPS units. Also, GPS III will be compatible with Galileo, Europe’s planned navigation satellite system. Improved performance and accuracy are definitely good things. But then, we expect this from technologies as they mature.
Consumer GPS units are not commissioned by the government. New features are dictated by market trends and consumer demand. And it is easier to develop new GPS units than GPS satellites. GPS units will change faster than the satellite system.
GPS satellites simply transmit signals that determine your coordinates. Software on the GPS unit does everything else. It plots your position on a map. And it shows you nearby businesses and points of interest. So, there are few limits when it comes to adding new features to Garmin GPS units.
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