Handheld GPS: Satellite navigation technology in the palm of your hand

Handheld GPS units communicate with a network of orbital satellites that constantly broadcast location information. When you turn on a handheld GPS receiver, it "sees" a number of satellites that compute the receiver's latitude, longitude and altitude. The network of satellites covers over 95% of the Earth's surface.

Once the data is received from the satellites, the handheld GPS translates the location data onto an electronic map that displays on the unit's screen. The user knows exactly where he is and where he is heading. Some handheld GPS units also include a digital compass -- so you always know where you are and where you're going. The GPS satellites are also equipped with atomic clocks and they transmit the exact time as well as location data -- so you'll never be late to an appointment.

GPS technology was once available only to the military. Once it was declassified, manufacturers began the process that turned large, cumbersome GPS instruments into the sleek, compact handheld GPS units we see today. There are even GPS watches and GPS modules you can plug into a laptop PC or PDA (personal digital assistant).

Widely used by hunters, hikers, backpackers and surveyors, handheld GPS units let you calculate your position to within 10 feet (about 3 meters). GPS units usually have built-in electronic mapping software that translates the latitude and longitude information broadcast by the satellites into a position on a map -- visual confirmation of your exact location.

To learn more about handheld GPS or to read more about these products and see specifications and descriptions, click one of the links below.

GPS
Maps / Software
Tracking

About The Author:

Rita Liotta is a successful author and publisher at www.1st-at-gps-tracking.com. Recommending gps equipment and associated products
28-06-04