What is GPS?
"GPS Global Positioning System: A network
of satellites that continuously transmit coded information making it
possible to precisely identify locations on earth by measuring the distance
from the satellite."
GPS refers to a system of 24 US Department of Defense satellites which
constantly circle the earth completing a revolution once every 12 hours.
These satellites continuously transmit coded information in the form
of low powered radio waves. The radio waves travel according to line
of site. In other words, if you can see through it, the waves can pass
through it. These waves do not pass through buildings, mountains, parking
garages or water for example but do pass through plastic or glass.
But Global Positioning Systems were designed for military use
back in 1976. How can they help us today?
Using a device which receives radio signals from the satellites, we
are able to tell where we are at any given point in time. We can record
locations and then navigate to and from those spots. While using a GPS
device you will never get lost on a hike or in a strange city again.
Locations can be recorded that you would like to return to at a later
time.
Have you ever wanted to remember a specific place on a hike in the mountains?
Or a place where you are supposed to meet someone? A spot on a lake
where you caught a huge fish? A location in Nebraska where you'd like
to return to hunt?
Airplane pilots use GPS receiving devices to locate airports in a storm,
Life Saving teams to locate accidents or injured persons, and travelers
to find locations in foreign countries where they may be unable to communicate
to ask for directions.
Recreational users are increasing by number daily and include hunters,
fisherman, bikers, hikers, mountain climbers, hot air balloonists, distance
runners, snow mobilers and cross-country skiiers to name a few.
GPS devices are
the best navigation tool since the beginning of the compass! Their uses
are almost unlimited!
Check out this neat tutorial!
http://www.garmin.com/manuals/GPSGuideforBeginners_Manual.pdf
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