Navigation Systems
Once we know our location, we can, of course, find out where we are on a map,
and GPS mapping and navigation is perhaps the most well-known of all the
applications of GPS. Using the GPS coordinates, appropriate software can perform
all manner of tasks, from locating the unit, to finding a route from A to B, or
dynamically selecting the best route in real time.
These systems need to work with map data, which does not form part of the GPS
system, but is one of the associated technologies that we spoke of in the
introduction to this article. The availability of high powered computers in
small, portable packages has lead to a variety of solutions which combines maps
with location information to enable the user to navigate.
One of the first such applications was the car navigation system, which allows
drivers to receive navigation instructions without taking their eyes off the
road, via voice commands.
Then there are handheld GPS units, such as those from Garmin and Magellan and
a dozen other manufacturers, which are commonly used by those involved in
outdoor pursuits, and only provide limited information such as the location, and
possibly store GPS waypoints. A waypoint being a location that is kept in memory
so that the unit can retrace the same path at a later time.
More advanced versions include aviation GPS systems, which offer specific
features for those flying aircraft, and marine GPS systems which offer
information pertaining to marine channels, and tide times, etc.
These last two require maps and mapping software which differ vastly from
traditional GPS solutions, and as such can often be augmented with other
packages designed to allow the user to import paper maps or charts.
There are even GPS solutions for use on the golf course. Golf GPS systems help
the player to calculate the distance from the tee to the pin, or to know exactly
where they are with relation to features such as hidden bunkers, water hazards
or greens. Again, specific maps are needed for such applications.
External Links:
sd Editors’ best 5 GPS navigation systems – CNET Reviews
sd Navigation and Navigation System Innovation, Manufacturing and …
