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There are several types of GPS that are worth exploring. The GPS technology has become widespread in modern times. It is not only used for navigation, but it has found its way into various applications and industries. For instance, people use GPS in their smartphones to get directions to the next coffee shop and track their workouts. The satellites in space send signals to the GPS receivers on Earth to provide location information. By calculating the distance to several satellites, the GPS receiver can triangulate its precise location.
Types of GPS include:
GPS for Navigation
Roads and waterways use GPS for navigation. Custom GPS units provide turn-by-turn directions to drivers, while handheld GPS units help hikers find trails. Moreover, aircraft GPS systems guide pilots from takeoff to landing.
Surveying GPS
In surveying, GPS is used to measure precise locations. Surveying GPS can determine positions within a few centimeters or even millimeters in accuracy. The high accuracy allows engineers to design projects and ensure construction machines follow the plans.
Agricultural GPS
Agricultural fields use GPS for planting, fertilizing, and harvesting. GPS tractors know where they have been and where they need to go. Moreover, drones with GPS can map fields and monitor crops from the air.
Timing GPS
GPS satellites send signals with the precise time they were sent. By receiving signals from multiple satellites, a GPS receiver can determine its location within a few meters. This precise timing is crucial for synchronizing operations in industries like telecommunications and power distribution.
Marine GPS
Marine GPS is used in navigation systems to ensure safety in shipping and fishing. It helps vessels avoid hazards and provides accurate positions in open waters where landmarks are few.
Military GPS
For military applications, GPS provides navigation and targeting precision for weapons delivery. It coordinates troop movements and logistics, ensuring operations are timely and accurate.
Mobile GPS
Mobile GPS is integrated into smartphones, allowing navigation, location-based services, and tracking in real time. It enables people to share locations, find nearby places, and track fitness activities.
Consumer GPS
Handheld and portable units are available for outdoor and recreational use, such as hiking, fishing, and geocaching. These devices help enthusiasts find their way in remote areas where roads are not available.
GPS is a satellite navigation system that offers location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on Earth, and is not hampered by any obstructions. There are various types of GPS, and here is the specification and maintenance of each one of them.
Specification of GPS
GPS is made up of three main parts, the satellite system, the ground control system, and the GPS receivers. The Satellite system: it consists of 24 satellites orbiting the Earth. The satellites are divided into six orbital planes, and each has four satellites. The satellites are 20,200 kilometers above the Earth in a circular, 12-hour orbit. The satellites are also arranged so that at least four satellites are in view from any point on Earth at any time. The satellites transmit microwave signals with a minimum of two frequencies. The signals contain information about the satellite's position and the time the signal was transmitted. The satellites are also designed to be easily maintained by replacing or upgrading them as needed. The Control system: the control system consists of ground control stations that monitor and control the satellites. The stations track the satellites' orbits and perform timing and health checks. The stations also communicate with the satellites to send commands and receive data. The receivers: GPS receivers receive signals from the satellites and use them to calculate the user's position. The receivers are used in many applications, including smartphones, cars, and handheld devices. The accuracy of the receivers depends on the number of satellites in view and the signal quality.
Maintenance of GPS
To maintain GPS, it is necessary to have a clear view of the sky to ensure that at least four satellites are in sight, ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 kilometers. The user must avoid large obstructions like mountains, tall buildings, and dense forests. The user should also stay indoors or in vehicles with low transmission windows. The receivers must be kept up to date with the latest firmware and software.
Business buyers should consider these factors before ordering GPS devices—application, screen size, and battery life.
Application
Different devices are suitable for various applications. For instance, handheld GPS are suitable for hiking and other outdoor activities because they are portable and durable. On the other hand, vehicle GPS navigation systems are installed in vehicles and are mainly used for driving directions. Choose GPS devices that will serve the intended purpose.
Screen size
GPS devices have different screen sizes. For example, some handheld GPS have smaller screens, while GPS for trucks have larger screens. Larger screens are easier to read and are ideal for complex maps. However, they are not portable. Consider the application and importance of portability when selecting GPS with a suitable screen size.
Battery life
Some types of GPS have longer-lasting batteries than others. For example, handheld GPS are designed with long-lasting batteries because they are used in remote areas where charging is not possible. Select a GPS device with a long battery life to avoid inconveniences.
Most GPS applications are free to download and easy to set up. Installing a new GPS unit in a vehicle that is not GPS-ready is a more complicated process that requires following the manufacturer's instructions for the specific model. In general, it involves the following steps:
Q1. Are GPS devices for vehicles still relevant?
A1. Yes. While smartphones have inbuilt GPS that allows navigation, dedicated GPS devices offer more robust functionalities. They provide real-time traffic updates, route customization, and larger screens for better maps visibility. Besides, they have long battery lives and are not interrupted by phone calls or messages.
Q2. What are the benefits of GPS in vehicles?
A2. GPS in vehicles helps track the location of the car, manage routes, and provide accurate location information. This technology has advanced tracking, navigation, and communication capabilities, making it easier to find lost cars, optimize delivery routes, and ensure passenger safety.
Q3. What is the difference between handheld GPS and automotive GPS?
A3. Handheld GPS is portable and designed for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and geocaching. On the other hand, GPS for vehicles is integrated into the car's dashboard or a portable device and is designed for driving.