GPS Receivers and Maps

October 3, 2008 | By gps-maniac In GPS Map |

Almost all GPS receivers come equipped with pre-loaded maps. However, these maps are not always what you need and/or want. That is why you will want to check out resources that will give you additional maps. And there are plenty of ways to get additional maps for your GPS.

The most essential function of a GPS receiver is to pick up the transmissions of at least four satellites and combine the information in those transmissions with information in an electronic almanac, all in order to figure out the receiver’s position on Earth.

Once the receiver makes this calculation, it can tell you the latitude, longitude and altitude (or some similar measurement) of its current position. To make the navigation more user-friendly, most receivers plug this raw data into map files stored in memory.

You can use maps stored in the receiver’s memory, connect the receiver to a computer that can hold more detailed maps in its memory, or simply buy a detailed map of your area and find your way using the receiver’s latitude and longitude readouts. Some receivers let you download detailed maps into memory or supply detailed maps with plug-in map cartridges.

A standard GPS receiver will not only place you on a map at any particular location, but will also trace your path across a map as you move. If you leave your receiver on, it can stay in constant communication with GPS satellites to see how your location is changing. With this information and its built-in clock, the receiver can give you several pieces of valuable information:

· How far you’ve traveled (odometer)

· How long you’ve been traveling

· Your current speed (speedometer)

· Your average speed

· A “bread crumb” trail showing you exactly where you have traveled on the map

· The estimated time of arrival at your destination if you maintain your current speed

That’s why having plenty of maps at your disposal is such an important tool of having your GPS receiver do what you are wanting it to do. When you have a GPS at your disposal, you can be assured that you will be able to get from point A to point B with little problem. Most of the modern GPS systems have voice capabilities that will provide you with verbal directions that allow you to concentrate on your driving.

5.0" GPS Navigation/Bluetooth/AV/FM/3D US/CA/EU Map/Mp4