Satellite technology has made possible Global Positioning Systems, also known as GPS. GPS systems are guided by 24 satellites originally put in orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense, for military operations. The U.S. government made the system available for civilian use in the 1980's. The popularity of Global Positioning Systems has been progressively rising since that time.

GPS works in any weather conditions, in almost any location, and at any time. Since GPS depends on signal reception, it does not work inside caves, tunnels, buildings or under water. Using it does not require a subscription fee or setup charge-it's available free to anyone who wants to use it.

Applications

Many automobiles now have built-in GPS. Some auto GPS units by Garmin and other manufacturers contact emergency assistance, while other systems also provide location and direction information. GPS use for consumer applications continues to increase. As the efficiency and accuracy of GPS have increased, the cost of surveying and the setup time have decreased. GPS is heavily used by forest rangers and farmers. The precise locational information is very useful to biologists, geologists, surveyors and other scientists. Commercial fishermen, and professional mariners use GPS.

Drivers and dispatchers use it to improve customer service and fleet tracking. GPS is an essential component of emergency response, disaster relief and public safety. In the air, GPS improves pilot communication, navigation, and hazard avoidance. Even space exploration has been revolutionized by GPS.

Recreational uses of GPS navigation systems continue to expand. The technology is used by hikers, snowmobile drivers, boaters and hunters. In fact, anyone who wants to keep track of where he or she is or figure out how to get from one place to another will find a GPS useful. Without GPS the worldwide activity of geocaching would not be possible. Even golf has not been left unaffected by GPS as it tells golfers how hard they have to swing for reaching the holes.

Equipment

Sophistication ranges from entry-level devices appropriate for recreational use, to cutting edge technology for high Earth orbit missions. Enhanced technology is making GPS more available within heavy foliage environments. Another popularity boost for GPS is its integration into cell phones, which has enhanced emergency response.

The newest auto GPS units are both more sophisticated and more user friendly than earlier systems. Manufacturer support and guarantees cover all the issues that can possibly go wrong.

Many guidance systems are built for specific applications. Consumer reviews are an excellent way to simplify the buying process since the choice is so vast. For this growing technology that is fast becoming part of every day life, many technical websites are dedicated to educate the public.

Michael D. Torc has written numerous articles on auto GPS units. For top of the line automotive GPS, visit his website: http://www.auto-gps-units.com. You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.

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