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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. Since GPS devices hit the market a few years ago, traditional navigation devices and roadmaps have been left in the dust. Travelers these days can glance at a GPS screen right in the car, and get clear directions on where to go and how to get there. 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. When paired with other mobile communication devices, such as PDAs, a GPS unit becomes even more useful. A PDA is a popular consumer communication product that combines a cellular phone with an organizer and Internet access. PDAs have hard drive space that makes them the perfect companions to GPS units. This hard drive space can be used for storing maps, and the colored screens are ideal for displaying maps. With their small size, it's easy to see why so many travelers choose to use PDAs over laptop computers and other bulkier options. 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 Solution Bluetooth technology is widely known as the standard for modern wireless communication. This system allows two electronic devices, such as a GPS and PDA, to send and receive signals, transfer data and "communicate" with each other. The information is shared without wires. Bluetooth GPS Receivers A Bluetooth GPS receiver is a device that uses wireless Bluetooth technology or Bluetooth electronics to transmit GPS data to a second mobile device that is capable of handling the same technology. In other words, a Bluetooth GPS receiver can only send data to a PDA that is also enabled with built-in 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 Many drivers prefer to have the GPS mounted securely positioned, while keeping the PDA where it can be clearly viewed. Bluetooth allows this wire-free convenience. You are able to position your Bluetooth GPS receiver in a spot where it can clearly pick up signals from the sky, while your PDA is mounted on the dashboard in front of you. There are no wires to hamper your driving or obstruct your view. CompactFlash Slot Space If you are using Bluetooth GPS and PDA, you'll have no need to a CompactFlash. In this case, you can use the empty CompactFlash slot as a storage area for maps and other software required to optimize your GPS navigation. 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.
Article Source: http://www.associatedigest.com
Author Rainer Cassell contributes articles to several well-known online magazines, on new product and electronic products issues. Visit our technology & communications article directory for a completely unique version of this article.
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