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GPS technology is a highly demanded device, and has been a hot
commodity for the last decade, continuing to grow in popularity
every day. As there are thousands of GPS systems being purchased on
a daily basis, many people do not truly understand how GPS works.
To follow is a breakdown of exactly how GPS works, specifically by
understanding the coordinate system, as well as problems that are
frequent within GPS systems, and how GPS businesses are attempting
to solve these issues. Then, a pro/con analysis will be reviewed,
and a look into the future of GPS systems. Finally, a brief review
of the top five GPS manufacturers will bring a conclusion to fully
understanding the GPS system.
Understand How GPS Systems Work
GPS, Global Position Unit, is a satellite system that was originally
created by the United States Department of Defense, which was solely
purposed for the U.S. Air Force. Over the decades of advancements,
the GPS system expanded into commercial use, and is now a primary
tool for navigation. The GPS system is vastly technical in terms and
definitions; however it can be understood easily in laymen’s terms.
Simply, a GPS system calculates its position through signals from
GPS satellites. Each satellite sends information to the GPS unit
using several satellites, where the GPS unit will calculate each
piece of satellites’ information into an algorithm, which then
displays to the GPS user into specific data, such as latitudinal and
longitudinal coordinates. As well, newer GPS devices can create a
specific map or image of your location. GPS systems also can
determine your elevation, direction, and even traveling speed.
How GPS Coordinate
System Determine Your Location
Typically the GPS
coordinate system will use at least three satellites, where it was
standard for GPS coordinate systems to use only three satellites,
now more commercial systems require four (the more geographical and
coordinate details that is demanded by the GPS unit will require
more satellites). The GPS satellites are located in specific areas
of their orbits around the earth, and when the three or four
satellites are called upon to send data, the GPS unit can determine
the location with a calculation that uses a time-based algorithm. |
