GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels

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Have you ever tried to find your way across town (or across the country) using an old-fashioned road map? The only thing trickier than deciphering the directions, is figuring out how to re-fold the map! Today’s travelers are finding it much easier to find their way with GPS receivers, PDA devices and Bluetooth technology.

The need for traditional maps and navigational devices has virtually disappeared since GPS devices hit the market. Now, travelers can simply refer to the GPS screen to access clear direction on where they need to go.

GPS receivers are electronic devices that can calculate your precise location on earth, by decoding signals received from satellites in outer space. Additional electronic products and software can then aid the GPS in pinpointing your exact location on a map. It’s incredible technology for a small gadget with a relatively small price tag.

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 are certain drawbacks to using GPS receivers with PDAs. In order to connect the two units, some people use conventional USB wires, while others choose a CompactFlash (CF) CARD. Either option means that both the GPS and PDA must be kept together. But, wires are inconvenient and limit the overall usability of the navigation device, while a CF card simply adds more bulk to the already cumbersome equipment. For these reasons, many travelers see Bluetooth technology as the perfect answer.

Rescued by Bluetooth

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 with 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.

In addition to the ease and convenience of avoiding bulky CompactFlash cards and messy wires, there are other benefits to using Bluetooth technology with your GPS/PDA combination:

Flexible Freedom

Without wires to tie them down, you are free to position your GPS receiver and PDA device where it’s most convenient for you. Many travelers choose to place the GPS on the dashboard, allowing it to maintain a clear connection with satellites in the sky. The PDA is best mounted right in front of the driver, where he or she can clearly see the directions on the screen. With Bluetooth technology there are no wires to limit the convenience or obstruct your view of the screen.

Added Storage

Using a Bluetooth GPS with a PDA means that there is no use for a CompactFlash. The empty CompactFlash slot can then be used as a storage space for maps or software to optimize the navigation 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.

Shop around to learn as much as you can, and compare models to find the one that suits you best. Your GPS will likely soon become a trusted travel companion.

Columnist Rainer Cassell is a regular columnist for various of today’s best web zines, on shopping and consumer products subjects.

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Topics: Computers and Technology | No Comments »

Article Citation
MLA Style Citation:
Cassell, Rainer "GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels." GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels. 31 Jan. 2010. uberarticles.com. 12 Apr 2012 <http://uberarticles.com/computers-and-technology/gps-and-pda-bring-tlc-to-your-travels/>.

APA Style Citation:
Cassell, R (2010, January 31). GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels. Retrieved April 12, 2012, from http://uberarticles.com/computers-and-technology/gps-and-pda-bring-tlc-to-your-travels/

Chicago Style Citation:
Cassell, Rainer "GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels" uberarticles.com. http://uberarticles.com/computers-and-technology/gps-and-pda-bring-tlc-to-your-travels/

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