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Traveling used to mean packing along detailed and illegible maps and compasses of questionable reliability. Given the number of times travelers had to stop and pull over to check a map, it’s a wonder that we ever traveled at all! These days, modern travelers can easily find their way with a small hand held wonder called a GPS receiver.
Every since GPS became widely available on the market the need for maps and large navigational devices became redundant. Today’s traveler can refer to the tiny computer screen on the GPS receiver to find exactly where to go.
A GPS receiver is a small electronic device that can actually calculate your precise location on earth. The GPS is able to decode signals sent from satellites in outer space, and use those signals to tell you where you are at any given time. When combined with specialized software and electronics, the GPS is able to pinpoint an exact location on a map, and give you instructions on how to get there. This fascinating technology becomes even more incredible when you discover that it can be had for a relatively small price.
For increased convenience and usefulness, GPS receivers are often paired with other mobile devices. The PDA is one of the most popular mobile products used for this purpose. With a colored screen that can clearly display maps, and some hard drive space for map storage, PDAs are wonderful partners to GPS receivers. Consider the small size and light weight of a PDA as compared to other options like notebook and laptop computers, and it’s easy to see why PDAs have become the first choice of modern navigators.
There is sometimes a problem with the integration of GPS receivers with PDAs. Connection between the two units is usually made using either conventional USB wires, or a CompactFlash (CF) CARD. The size of the GPS and PDA units together, and added to the added bulk of the CF card, can create a cumbersome traveler’s tool. On the other hand, using USB wires is inconvenient and limits the overall usability of the navigation device. Many people, therefore, are turning to Bluetooth technology as the perfect traveler’s companion.
Bluetooth to the Rescue
Bluetooth technology is the new standard for wireless communications. With Bluetooth technology, two electronic devices are able to communicate by sending and retrieving signals and transferring data from as many as ten meters away. The information is transmitted without any wires at all.
Bluetooth GPS Receivers
A Bluetooth GPS receiver is an electronic device that uses wireless technology (namely, Bluetooth electronics) to transmit GPS data. The data is transmitted to a second wireless device, such as a PDA, that is capable of handling the technology. For example, a GPS receiver can wirelessly transmit data to a PDA handset, but only if they are both enabled with Bluetooth capabilities.
Of course, this combination of devices offers many advantages to modern travelers. As an alternative to cumbersome USB wires or bulky CompactFlash, Bluetooth technology provides several benefits:
Flexible Freedom
It’s not always best to have your PDA and your GPS receiver located in the same position. Without wires to bind the devices, you can position your PDA and GPS separately in the most strategic locations, to provide the best results. For example, if you are using your GPS while driving, you can position the Bluetooth GPS receiver in a spot where it has a clear view of the sky, while mounting the PDA to your dashboard where you have a clear view of the screen. There are no wires to get in the way of your vision, or hamper your driving in any way.
Added Storage
If you are using Bluetooth technology to transmit data, you’ll have no need to plug in a CompactFlash card. The empty CF slot, therefore, can be used as a storage space for software or maps to further optimize the results of your GPS.
Bluetooth GPS manufacturers will offer further benefits with their equipment. For example, many Bluetooth GPS receivers feature a POI (points of interest) database, pre-stored maps and route re-calculation function.
Learn more about the benefits of using GPS and PDA on your next trip, and then shop around for the models that best suit your needs. You’ll spend less time trying to find your way, and more time having fun with your family.