Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Monday, 30 January 2012
Sunday, 1 January 2012
Garmin Oregon 500
Garmin updates its popular series navigators with a new model – Oregon 500, which replaces the Oregon 400. In its GPS-system is secure permanent housing also protected touch screen. The device has maps of the topography of places, receiver sensitivity, barometer, electronic compass, a slot for memory cards microSD, software for viewing photos and more. Two such Navigator can exchange relevant information among themselves. Garmin Oregon 500 operates on two batteries type AA, and has built-in digital camera. Its price is about $ 530, but is expected to be available after two months.
Mio Hammer V700 navigation system
Mio Technology has launched a new navigation system dubbed Mio Hammer V700, which will be available by year’s end. Hallmark of this GPS is the long stand which attaches to the side window of the car, so the device can be adjusted to fit the driver position. Hammer V700 has a large beautiful display only 16 mm thick. The 7-inch display of the navigation system has a resolution of 800 x 480 and aspect ratio of 16:9, which is a record for such devices. With his help can watch different media files, audio and video. GPS-receiver accepts signals from 64 satellites simultaneously and obtain accurate information on traffic using the TPEG-receiver.
Mio Hammer V700 with 4 GB of internal memory costs $ 285.
Gamin GPS and sonar echo
The lowest price match surprising performance in echo, the new dual beam sonar and one-beam search of fish from Garmin. They get more for the price you pay. With dual beam technology for the price of the one-beam, echo 150 is a sport fisherman’s dream. With its 200 watts (RMS) power, he can accurately scan to a depth of 1,300 ft (430 m) in fresh water.
In the shallow water, the angle of observation of 120o lets you see fish well beyond board your vessel. And to give you another unknown into the equation, exclusive HD-ID technology of Garmin provides extremely improved separation and definition of objects of crystalline monochrome screen at eight levels of gray. The echo one-beam 100 with its technology is extremely cheap and accessible for every novice fisherman. Mount and go fishing with in mounting kit tilting device and probe, making installation simple and elegant. Moreover, echo 100 and 150 are compact package, occupying less space in the boat.
Navigon 5100
The Navigon 5100 automobile navigator is a GPS device available at a very attractive price of $99. The device comes in a compact and attractive chrome housing and is available with a stylishly designed car mount. Dimensions of Navigon 5100 are 4.2″ wide X 3.3″ high X 0.9″ deep; it weighs 6.3 ounces.
The Navigon 5100 gives you -
- Intuitive menus and a 3.5″ touch screen with predictive text input so that you navigate the road and not the device.
- Navigon 5100 is the only GPS device out there to offer subscription-free real time traffic information so that you stay abreast of the traffic situation and incidents that may have occurred on the route taken by you.
- Easy to comprehend maps that can be read in 2D or 3D in portrait or landscape mode. The door-to-door maps are highly detailed and come pre-loaded for the U.S and Canada.
- A “Reality View” which enables you to see actual road signs and exit-ramp guidance.
- A Lane Assistant that guides you to the best lane for a given route under a given traffic condition.
- A Speed Assistant to tell you your speed and warn you if you exceed the speed limit.
- Voice-guided navigation in which you can listen to the directions and street names. Voice navigation promotes safe driving as it eliminates the need to look at the GPS time and again.
- Landmarks and points of interest that lie along the route that you have taken so that you know where to stop for gas and where to turn for a quick bite.
GPS Personal Locator
A GPS tracker, a few personal likes a bit 'pushy, but if ever finds himself lost face in a specific country will be thanking you're lucky if you owned your personal locator. It has a large number of people who are lost deep in the desert was. Sometimes you hear the wonderful stories of how they were able to seek help, despite the odds stacked against themor appear as saviors in a position of individuals during a search and rescue mission were.
Although, unfortunately, these stories are the exception, that is why the news. With a GPS tracking significantly reduces the likelihood of a prolonged recovery, being too late, or not found at all. Many mobile phones are equipped with GPS locator beacon. This advancement in technology is very advantageous for the rescuers. People may be in open spacesfor several reasons, hunters, mountain climbers, hikers and outdoor activities for the extremists. If you were lost in the unfortunate situation of a country once again to find location, you can activate only a small moment of consciousness Locator button, and grateful that all you need. The workers and emergency personnel can locate your position within a few meters.
In the past, the rescuers themselves were able to need to find salvationeven when he spent hours after hours in remote areas. Of course, that the rescuers for help, if necessary, which makes it much harder to find and perhaps wounded, lost in the individual time. If the individual without access to food and water and / or is in danger because of hostile elements, such as freezing temperatures or scorching heat, and the rescue service have to race against time to locate the person before it is too late.
A personal GPSLocator uses satellite technology, which removes the risk of both rescuers and the lost. There is not only the risk factor, but the technology also saves thousands of dollars and other resources that are in the missing persons. Currently, there is a push from those of the field work of search and rescue, land rights, where every visitor will be required to pass a new purchase of personal locator.
As already mentioned, you can use a phone with a personal locator purchase or you can decideBuying a GPS device separately. The cost of these devices are very affordable and if you look around to find the product on various makes and models at competitive prices. Depending on the activity and localization of the site staff are rented.
GPS Receiver Features
GPS stands for Global Positioning System and the system includes a network of satellites orbiting the earth and transmit information back constantly. A-GPS receiver's hand is a GPS navigator, portable device that is high and information received from the satellite can identify the specific locations on land, air or water.
The three parts of GPS
GPS consists of three parts, space, control andthe user. Space refers to the satellite, control refers to the control center on Earth, and the user is the person who manages the GPS.
Satellites
There are currently 24 satellites orbiting the Earth every 12 hours. They were originally created by the UP Department of Defense for military purposes in life, but are now also used for civilian purposes. A GPS receiver must lock in at least three satellites and longitude to give a 2DWide and four or more satellites to give a 3D position longitude, latitude and altitude.
If the GPS receiver, the position was established, other measures of speed can be calculated as the user is traveling, the distance traveled, storage, and information about sunrise and sunset. When the user enters their destination, so the distance from the target can also be tracked.
Control stations
Currently there areeleven control stations on earth, which tracks the satellites and send data to the master control station. With eleven centers, each with two satellite centers, or more to be seen. There are plans for 5 stations, which means more control, that each satellite would be seen by at least three of them.
You
The user of the system, each individual their hand-held GPS receiver. Users of handheld GPS receivers can alsoHikers, boaters, pilots, fishermen, hunters, soldiers, or for geocaching fun. Basically, they are useful for those who know exactly where at some point or know where they want to go.
How accurate is GPS?
GPS receivers now are more accurate than ever, but can not always exactly 100%. The common-receiver's hand-held GPS, the position of about 3 to 15 feet, but there are some errors thatcan affect the accuracy. Some of these errors are caused by the delay in the signal, since the signal levels of the atmosphere from tall buildings or the Rockies, which will increase the time for the signal to reach the recipient, or the number and location of reflection to be transmitted to satellites .
What are the features to look at a handheld GPS
One of the features that are useful in a handheld GPS must be that itwaterproof. If you go hiking, fishing or boating, if it falls into the water and is not waterproof, it will be ruined. You might want to consider if the GPS works with disposable batteries, rechargeable ones or those with an internal battery that can be recharged at home. Many can also be recharged with a car charger adapter or USB cable.
Some GPS receivers can cost $ 100, while others can cost several hundred euro - it all depends on howmany features that you need. Some have removable micro-SD cards that can be loaded with maps and waypoints. E 'can also micro-SD cards that are pre-loaded with maps, lake maps, graphs and maps to buy city. Other features include altimeter, electronic compass, tide data, and some even include a digital camera.
Guide for Car Gadgets
Cars right now are considered necessities and they play a big role in our daily living, from work, school, weekend getaway, family day, etc. But our cars don’t need to be just a plain vehicle for transportation. Let’s take a look at some of the ‘must-haves’ your car needs to turn a boring everyday drive into a relaxing and fun experience.
TomTom GO Live 1535 M
Unveiled in October, this GPS device offers High Definition Traffic and Live services in Canada. The latter feature gives you full access to the internet and available useful applications while driving, such as Expedia, Yelp and TripAdvisor as well as Google and Twitter. On the other hand, the HD traffic gives comprehensive details in real time. The information you get is refreshed as often as every 2 minutes, helping you avoid traffic jams and getting you to your destination as fast as possible. Its 5” touchsceen monitor sits in an integrated foldaway mount, making the gadget very user-friendly.
InCarBite iPad Case
This gadget provides both comfort and relaxation while driving as it’s a headrest-mounted iPad case that can be installed without using any tools from your toolbox. All you need to do to get this thing working is to fold and slide its back stand to its mount until it’s locked safely. You can tilt the iPad for better comfort and add more accessories for more versatility such as FM transmitters.
Monster iMotion CarPlay Direct Connect
This gadget lets you listen to your iPod’s music playlist (through its speakers) while plugged into and being charged in your car’s 12V power outlet. It includes hand motion connection where you can use simple hand gestures to control the main functions of your iPod such as play, pause, forward, backward.
Keyport Slide
Keyport Slide is often referred to as the modern-day keychain, as it can consolidate up to 6 coded keys and other gadgets. This gadget is light in weight, compact and very versatile, allowing users to insert flash drives from 8GB to 16B USB, an LED flashlight, or even a bottle opener.
SuperTooth HD
This HD speaker phone produces flawless audio quality while allowing you to write SMS messages, emails and check your social media updates. With voice commands, you need not grab your mobile phone while driving. SuperTooth HD can run for up to 1,000+ hours in stand-by mode.
UTX Wings UT300
UTX-South Korean GPS Manufacture has just introduce their latest collection of the GPS device based portable car entertainment system named the Wings UT300. This GPS is specified by a 7-inch TFT color LCD with sunlight-readable technology and could view image into 800 x 480 resolution. UTX not just made this portable car entertainment system complete with GPS function but also equipped the Wings UT300 with a USB WiBro antenna (Wireless Broadband that equivalent to IEEE 802.16e) which allow you to get connected with internet connection and checking live traffic cameras wireless. And the Wings UT300 also still can supported by separate DBM antenna if you want to enjoy digital TV channel broadcast. The last of the Wing UT300 GPS features mini USB, and USB ports, video input for a rear camera, and an SD card slot. Sorry, I couldn’t fine the information about this WiBro UTX Wings UT300 GPS’s price and the sad news, its probably will available in Korea Market only and it need ten years to get in US market.
Audi A3 GPS Navigation System
GPS navigation system is one of the most popular must-have gadgets. You can use a GPS device to plan your route or guide you back home if you ever get lost. If you car is Audi, installing an Audi A3 GPS navigation systems are very helpful and convenient. They are available in various makes, models and designs. You can be certain to find an Audi A3 DVD Player GPS navigation device to suit your needs and budget.
Audi A3 GPS navigation device is a great time saver. You no longer have to flip through a map or try to read one while driving. With an Audi A3 GPS navigation device, you only input your destination and it will automatically plan the fastest route for you. The device provides real time information so you can be assured that you get the most up to date directions.
It is cumbersome to look at a paper map while driving. The only safe way of looking at it is to pull over to the side of the road or get a passenger to read it for you.
For female drivers who drive alone or at night, traveling with an Audi A3 DVD Player navigation system offers safety and prevents them from getting lost. They don't have to stop at unknown places to ask strangers for direction.
The Audi A3 GPS navigation system is like having a map that is constantly updated with the latest information. No more guessing is involved. The GPS device gets its information from a large bank of data that is constantly being updated to ensure accuracy. To get the best of both worlds you should consider a system which offers visual and audio guidance.
This enables you to see the map on screen if you want or you can just listen to verbal instructions. Other band like Chevrolet GPS Navigation has voice guidance when you using it. There are many different types, features and brands of GPS navigation systems for you to choose from.
The simpler the model, the cheaper it is. Audi A3 GPS models are small, lightweight and portable. As these plug into cigarette lighter sockets they can be taken from car to car. However other systems need to be installed by a professional, otherwise the warranty may be void. Make sure you choose a GPS navigation system that can be upgraded in the future.
How would you use the Audi A3 GPS navigation system? You can find points of interest such as a petrol station or supermarket. An Audi A3 GPS navigation device can help you plan alternative routes in real time if you get stuck in traffic. It can also plot the quickest route to your destination.
The prices of Audi A3 GPS navigation devices have fallen so it is possible to get one for under $300.
Navigon 8100T
Newest technology in navigation techlolgy apparently will never end and was this time showing by the NAVIGON company with the navigation product of car navigation, that is NAVIGON 8100T. With 4.8 inch screen size, NAVIGON 8100T offers 3D image maps with the high resolution. 3 dimension (3D) mean here is the ability to display a 3D image of the surface of the road that passed by where we can know whether the road will climb, decreasing or flat. 3D map data obtained from NASA. Besides given display panorama image in 3D, NAVIGON 8100T also service to provide up to date information about condition of roads and others. The price this gadget around $599
TomTom iPhone Car Kit
The TomTom Car Kit is an external GPS receiver built into the form factor of a windshield-mountable iPhone or iPod touch dock. The dock connection allows TomTom's turn-by-turn navigation software to access the dock’s GPS radio, and includes a microphone, speaker, audio output jack, and charger.
Why pay extra for a GPS receiver when you have one built into your iPhone 3G or 3GS? For starters, TomTom’s receiver is designed specifically to allow better reception with a different antenna design and using technology similar to that which TomTom integrates into its standalone receivers.
That can help if you frequently travel routes with coverage or need to position your mount on the dashboard instead of the windshield. (In California, you can only mount something on the driver or passenger side of the interior windshield.)
The kit incorporates hands-free calling using the built-in microphone and either the integral speaker or audio output through the iPhone’s stereo jack. Hands-free calling uses Bluetooth, because Apple doesn’t allow audio support for calls via the dock. The TomTom dock also offers music output via an audio output jack, although that requires an auxiliary stereo input on your car stereo system. (If you have a USB-based car system with direct iPod control, you can’t use it with this dock.)
Charging isn’t optional. The dock must be plugged into your car power port to work. The shape of the mount makes it incompatible with any iPhone or iPod touch case I am aware of, meaning that you either have to carry your device “naked,” or remove its skin when using with the dock. The dock works—using the 1.2 release of TomTom’s iPhone apps—with every iPhone and iPod touch, although hands-free calling obviously works only with iPhone models.
The combined price of the app ($100 for North American edition, though there's now a $70 U.S.-only version) and the dock is higher than many standalone GPS devices with similar features.In testing, I found the car kit fine, but not exceptional. It clearly did provide a boost to the GPS over the software by itself, having no trouble maintaining a fix at any time, and providing an accurate refresh.
The dock made the TomTom software perform slightly better than others, but not enough to warrant the cost differential. TomTom released a separate free app for the car kit that lets you check that it’s working properly, and see a graphical display of GPS satellite signal reception.
TomTom XL-330 S GPS
In today’s world of electronic gadgets one such gadget I find people talking about more or even saying they want is a portable GPS unit for their vehicle. Well prior to this I have never used a GPS unit before though I was able to see a Garmin in action when Robyn and I were in Minnesota this year.
I was curious as to how other vehicle GPS units perform and looked at the various GPS manufacturers out there in today’s market. One that came to mind was TomTom. It seems TomTom has released an updated version of the TomTom ONE series with the XL 330/330 S which has a smaller compact design and smaller mounting hardware.
TomTom
When I first saw TomTom being mentioned as a GPS device manufacturer it was a TV commercial. It intrigued me then and when people talk about GPS units now, TomTom’s name usually comes up. TomTom focuses on car navigation with combining high quality map data that is kept up to date with help from the large community of people who use TomTom products.
They also try and deliver quicker travel routes using historical speed data and real time traffic information services. Even though TomTom has not been in the market as long as Garmin they still have been around for over 15 years and stay competitive in today’s market of car navigation devices. With the acquisition of Tele Atlas I am sure they won’t be stuck behind the pack when releasing map updates either.
GPS – Never Getting Lost Again
I was excited to try out my first GPS device and when I received the TomTom XL-330 S my first impression of the device was that it looked good, small and hopefully seemed easy to use. The other feature of the TomTom Xl-330 S is that it came with what they called an EasyPort which greatly reduces the amount of hardware needed to mount it to a car surface.
- Maps of US and Canada
- EasyPort Mount
- Plug and Go Operation
- Spoken Instructions and Street Names
- 4.3″ Widescreen
- Preloaded Points of Interest (PoI)
- Stay Up To Date with TomTom’s Home Service
- TomTom Latest Map Guarantee
- Traffic Ready
- Daily Fuel Prices (optional service)
I am glad that this particular unit came with Canadian maps out of the box. I remember seeing other manufacturer GPS devices that made you purchase a model or two above to get it preloaded with Canadian maps.
EastPort Mount is pretty cool in itself. It attaches easily attaches to the back of the TomTom XL-330 S and mounts to the windshield with no troubles.
Though I do recommend you attaching the mount to the windshield and then attaching the TomTom unit to the mount. Just don’t push hard on the screen, use the frame as it can be a bit tough clipping in. This is easier because you can attach the EasyPort mount to the glass easier without the unit attached. The suction cup engages with a simple twist.
The Plug and Go operation is nice. I took the unit out of the box, mounted to the car and turned it on. Within a minute or two it acquired 12 satellite signals and knew exactly where I was. Was there any doubt? When you first turn it on you do need to set up the basics such as home location, time and default maps. You can also choose the voice for which it uses to speak upcoming streets. This is only when you first take it out of the box or have to do a hard-reset.
It seems that TomTom has redesigned their ONE series into a thinner and more compact version. The EasyPort mount (as mentioned above and pictured above) is compact and folds up against the back of the unit. This is good because it is thinner than previous models and fits better in a bag or even your pocket. When you turn it off they even show a picture of someone putting it into a hand bag, a reminder to take it with you.
The widescreen is really nice. I recommend if you can afford a widescreen version I would go that route. More visual information for you and also makes it easier to glance at while driving. Wider screens also allow for larger keyboards and in this case the onscreen keyboard is nice and big. I do not recommend using the onscreen keyboard while driving though.
The USB port at the bottom of the unit is tricky to connect to as it is a bit recessed. I would recommend plugging in the car adapter prior to mounting it on your dash or windshield. Once the TomTom XL-330 S is mounted to the EasyPort you can easily rotate it 360 degrees, you can also swivel the EasyPort mount though it can be a bit stiff. Just make sure, like when attaching it, you grasp the frame of the unit when positioning to your liking. One thing I did notice is that it does lack an option for an external antenna. External antenna would allow you to acquire a better GPS signal, hopefully in a more dense building area too.
So you have the TomTom XL-330 S mounted to your chosen location inside your vehicle, now what? You can set up a destination without much trouble. There are a few menus you have to navigate around when setting up a destination but the nice thing is you can set it as a favorite and choose it later without much hassle. After you have inputted your destination it will calculate your route fairly quickly. You can also choose how it should calculate its route buy: shortest distance, quickest time or arrive at no particular time.
I told the TomTom to take me from my place in Pitt Meadows BC to Robyn’s place in the West End of Vancouver. I also specified that I did not have to be there by any particular time. Clicking on the above image will show you a larger version but as you can see TomTom’s route was not as direct but I assume it has less traffic lights to go though. Then again my route downtown is not a typical main artery I guess either, well if you’re not a Vancouver resident I suppose.
A few times I had troubles picking up a decent signal when I was downtown Vancouver. The taller buildings will hamper with acquiring a GPS signal. Once it took over 30 minutes to acquire a GSP link and by then I only had 10 minutes left in that particular journey. Another time it was able to acquire a signal 3 blocks away. Perhaps an external antenna could help with this.
They do have a QuickFixGPS update on their website that will help keep track of GPS satellite locations to help aquire a quicker location fix. When I am out in Pitt Meadows (where there are no large steel and concrete buildings) I am able to pick up a good GPS signal within 2 minutes of powering up the TomTom XL-330 S.
I noticed when I was driving from Robyn’s place and set TomTom to route me home it kept trying to redirect me 2 streets over. I did not want to go that route and after I would miss the ‘Turn Left’ directions it kept giving it would then just recalculate and keep asking me to ‘Turn Left’ at each intersection I approached.
It would have been nice for it to realize I would not comply to its wishes and recalculate the route based on the road I was traveling on. Battery life is specified to be up to 3 hours of operation. I have not needed to try this part out as I plug in the unit with the car adapter every time I use it. A feature that might be fun to use would be the Traffic reporting but that is a separate option for this unit. It uses the FM broadcast and will help recalculate a route if there are traffic issues up ahead on your current route.
You install the TomTom Home software by plugging the TomTom into your computer and agreeing to install it. I thought it would install off of the TomTom itself but it actually goes to the TomTom website and downloads the software. TomTom’s Latest Map Guarantee means that within 30 days of your purchase if there is a newer map available to download you get to download it free. You do have to attach the TomTom to your computer via the supplied USB cable. You also need to install their Home software.
TomTom Home also allows you to download new voices, as well as PoI or Points of Interest that might be handy for you and your area. Their Map Share service allows you to connect with other TomTom users and download their corrections to maps in your area, or you can share your updates. Perhaps streets have changed, or a road is blocked, you can edit them and upload them to the community. With constant road upgrades or even road closures due to construction this could be very handy.
TomTom Home also will update the TomTom device with any firmware releases or any other software updates that might be needed. Though be warned that if you do have to download a new map like I did (there was an updated version of the Canadian map) it was over 200 MB and over a USB port it took quite the time to complete (download, transfer, install, reboot).
I have enjoyed using the TomTom XL-330 S GPS unit though I wish I could create some more fun car adventures and test the navigation and route calculation a bit better. I have entered in some known addresses and just followed the TomTom as it directed me which each time turned out pretty well. The compact design, which is not bulky, is great and with the EasyMount port it allows for less clutter on your vehicle’s dash.
It seems that the lower cost GPS units do not come with external antennas or a port to plug one in but that would be a nice option if you do a lot of city driving. Though if the buildings are quite high I am sure it might be a bit difficult to obtain a decent satellite signal.For being my first GPS unit I have quite enjoyed using the TomTom XL-330 S. Using it to find locations I might be unfamiliar with was great, though for the routes I did know I would have liked it to recalculate the route on the road I currently was driving on.
If you are looking for a widescreen vehicle GPS unit I would recommend looking at the TomTom XL-330. It would be great for road trips where you are not quite sure where you are going. If you are doing deliveries or driving around locations you are familar with, you probably know a better route than the TomTom, but if not it will find you the quickest or shortest route.
New GPS Units Let You Know They Like Being Touched
Immersion Corporation, a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology, announced that CTT-Net of Korea will be launching the world’s first GPS device that use Immersion’s TouchSense® technology to provide tactile feedback for touchscreen interactions.
TCTT-Net’s will be releasing two devices, the CSN-7040 (a handheld unti) and the CIN-7000 (a built-in car navigation device), to the Korean market that incorporates the TouchSense technology. Both models will feature a 7-inch touchscreen. When users touch the onscreen controls, the TouchSense system provides immediate tactile feedback to confirm your selection. CTT-Net expects this tactile feedback to also minimize driver distraction by reducing glance-time.
Independent research groups have has shown that adding tactile feedback to touchscreens can decrease error rates, increase input speed, and raise user satisfaction. Other companies have jumped on the Immersion’s tactile touchscreen technology including LG Electronics, Nokia, and Samsung (for mobile phones), 3M Touch Systems (for gaming systems), and Methode, SMK, and Volkswagen (for automotive applications).
“It’s exciting to deploy our touch interface technologies in personal navigation devices,” said Immersion CEO Victor Viegas. “The market for these products is undergoing dramatic growth, and with nearly every new PND being designed around touchscreen input, TouchSense tactile feedback is a natural fit.”
I personally have a love/hate relationship with touchscreens, mostly because I can't blindly input my selections. However, having tactile feedback will make me fall in love with my touchscreens just a little bit more.
Independent research groups have has shown that adding tactile feedback to touchscreens can decrease error rates, increase input speed, and raise user satisfaction. Other companies have jumped on the Immersion’s tactile touchscreen technology including LG Electronics, Nokia, and Samsung (for mobile phones), 3M Touch Systems (for gaming systems), and Methode, SMK, and Volkswagen (for automotive applications).
“It’s exciting to deploy our touch interface technologies in personal navigation devices,” said Immersion CEO Victor Viegas. “The market for these products is undergoing dramatic growth, and with nearly every new PND being designed around touchscreen input, TouchSense tactile feedback is a natural fit.”
I personally have a love/hate relationship with touchscreens, mostly because I can't blindly input my selections. However, having tactile feedback will make me fall in love with my touchscreens just a little bit more.
Best GPS Apps to Turn Your iPad
The Apple iPad is one of the most versatile gadgets to ever be released. There are nearly limitless uses for it with the introduction of new apps every day. With all the buzz about the newly revealed Apple iPad Tablet PC, We think it would be appropriate to make a list of GPS Apps to Turn Your iPad Into a GPS Device.The models with the 3G antenna give you access to internet, e-mail, and other features while on the go.
One of the best features that takes advantage of this is the ability to transform you iPad into a GPS device. This allows your tablet pc to calculate your exact position on earth by analyzing the positions of satellites in space. It’s now in your hands and you’ve just begun experimenting with it, right?Well, now is the time to start taking full advantage of what is arguably the biggest selling point of the iPad: the Apple App Store. Although native iPad applications, at the time we wrote this, numbered only in the thousands.
CoPilot Live HD North America – iPad GPS App
Price: $29.99 – Compatible with iPad. Requires iOS 3.2 or later.
CoPilot Live HD unites full-featured, turn-by-turn voice navigation with sensational hi-resolution graphics for the ultimate in-car guidance experience. CoPilot Live HD North America features the latest Q1 2010 maps of the U.S. and Canada. The app will work in landscape of portrait mode, making it car mountable either way. Maps are stored directly on your iPad for fast access. Some programs download the maps as you travel which can kill your battery and run up the usage of your dat
Where to Eat? – iPad GPS App
Price: $2.99 – Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.
Where to Eat is a fun little program that can give restaurant recommendations in your immediate vicinity by checking your location via GPS. This is especially useful if you travel a lot and aren’t familiar with the restaurants in the area. This program is just a link to Google Maps. If you can type “Italian Restaurant” then you don’t need this program and save your $3.
GPS Tracker – iPad GPS App
Price: Free – Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 2.0 or later.
GPS Tracker is a free real-time GPS tracking service. Use it to track an iPhone online, share your location with friends and family, and record tracks for later analysis.
MotionX GPS Drive – iPad GPS App
Price: $2.99 – Compatible with iPad Wi-Fi + 3G. Requires iOS 3.2 or later.
MotionX-GPS Drive HD turns any iPad 3G into the next-generation car and pedestrian navigation solution. Superior to any personal navigation device, MotionX-GPS Drive HD re-defines the category. It also makes use of its 3G connectivity for live search and other live services. Be sure to select the GPS Drive version for turn-by-turn directions.
iNavX Marine Navigation – iPad GPS App
Price: $49.99 – Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1.3 or later.
Official NOAA RNC raster US waters marine charts for iPad. This color chartplotter supports waypoints and routes, GPX import and export, and supports instrument data display. With iNavX™ you can use the built in location services (i.e. GPS, cell tower, WiFi) to plot your position in real-time on the multi-touch scrolling and zooming and rotating marine chart.
Using the iPhone’s and iPad’s and iPod touch’s WiFi connection, iNavX™ can act as a repeater for popular marine navigation software that supports NMEA data over TCP/IP such as MacENC or Coastal Explorer. This includes GPS, AIS receivers & transponders, and Instruments (Depth, Speed, Wind, etc.)
Nissan makes GPS navigation
We can all add GPS to our cars if we want by schlepping down to the local electronics store and paying anywhere from $70 to $500 depending on the features and brand you choose. Add on GPS systems work just fine for the most part, but there is no denying the fact that any add on GPS device is nowhere near as visually appealing as one built-in from the factory.
The catch is that many cars only offer navigation system in option packs that can add thousands to the price of a car. Nissan is doing something a bit different and has announced that it will be offering a cheap nav option for most of its popular cars down to the lowly Sentra. The best news is that the nav option is only $400. This isn’t a system lacking a screen like the Ford Sync system either. Autoblog reports the nav has a 5-inch screen. If the maps are accurate I see this being a common option that users buy, I hope other carmakers offer similar features.
Funcional gift
Among all the gadgets out there, a GPS is probably something people will buy because they really need it. Of course, when it comes to automobile GPSs, many of them come already implemented on your car. But this could be a great gift for somebody who travels or uses their car a lot, but haven’t thought of buying a GPS. It will definitely impress men as a gadget and women will probably also find it extremely useful.
GPS devices can be very important in some harsh situations and you will always have more security than using a map. You can also have a GPS device integrated on your phone, but that will surely make its price higher. Another type of GPS is a personal GPS, great to offer people who have kids. Also, it can be used by people who recently moved in a town and don’t know their way around.
When it comes to prices, GPS devices are great gifts because they come in a great variety of prices. They have become really cheap nowadays and almost anybody can afford one. The prices can start at 50 dollars but they can go as far as a few thousand dollars. You can also use a GPS as a gift with a joke theme, for example you can buy one for your wife because you know she’s not very good with space orientation or you can buy one for your husband and inquire that he will always find the way home.
So a GPS has multiple functions and it can be used in various situations when a person has to offer a gift, you can surprise your parents, your friends or your lover. It’s great for anybody and works even when you don’t know much about a person, because it’s functional.
In the right direction
Forget boring and boxy GPS devices. Maction Technologies' Papago! Dream HD H5600 is a slim and stylish device that looks more like a sleek miniature LCD TV than a GPS device. It is powered by a dual-core SiRf IV chip and comes preinstalled with the company's improved Reality 7 Navigation software which is faster and has more functions. The device features a comprehensive library of POIs (points of interests), realistic Junction View mode, and fascinating 3D buildings and monuments for major towns and cities.
It also has an FM transmitter, a port for hooking up a camera and a 3.5mm headphones jack. There is also a stylus neatly hidden on the back, which makes it easier and more precise to input data. If that's too tedious, just speak to the device to issue commands and the Voice Command Navigation feature will do the necessary. As the model name has the word "HD," you would expect the GPS to have a HD screen but that's not the case here. The 5in touchscreen only has a resolution of 800 x 480-pixels which is hardly high-definition. However, the display is sharper and brighter than the ones found on most GPS units. This is because it has a 300:1 contrast ratio and brightness of 300nits.
It also has an FM transmitter, a port for hooking up a camera and a 3.5mm headphones jack. There is also a stylus neatly hidden on the back, which makes it easier and more precise to input data. If that's too tedious, just speak to the device to issue commands and the Voice Command Navigation feature will do the necessary. As the model name has the word "HD," you would expect the GPS to have a HD screen but that's not the case here. The 5in touchscreen only has a resolution of 800 x 480-pixels which is hardly high-definition. However, the display is sharper and brighter than the ones found on most GPS units. This is because it has a 300:1 contrast ratio and brightness of 300nits.
HTC EVO 4G’s Car Upgrade
It’s been a little while now since the HTC EVO 4G launched for Sprint. Awhile enough for the phone to be a relative hit for the network, and to leave plenty of customers out there eagerly anticipating the “official” car dock for the device. Well, sure enough, today’s the day that you can finally head into a Sprint store and get your hands on one.
The “car upgrade kit” lets you do all the cool things you’ve wanted to do: put your EVO into it, and use it as a real GPS unit. You can plug your car charger into the dock itself, which connects to the EVO via its micro-USB port, so your phone shouldn’t die while you drive around aimlessly, finding new places you’ve never visited.
However, here’s a few things you should take note of: you can’t access the SD card when the EVO’s plugged into the car dock. It only works in landscape mode (we can’t really see that being a problem), and your phone won’t do data transfers while it’s plugged into the dock, either. Truth be told, we don’t see any of these things being a real issue while you’re driving, because you’re focusing on the road, right? Right?
WayteQ N770
The N770 model belongs to the group of the devices with 4.3" TFT. The simplified shape of the rounded housing contains no buttons except the on/off one so we have to use the touch screen for each and every command. Besides the navigation there are several other useful functions.
Cardless
Though there are many people love playing cards some of us don't care for it. Wayteq prefers the 2GB built-in memory so we need no memory cards for using the functions of the device. The manufacturer forgets not about those who needs more: there's the SD slot, so we don't have to save up memory size. Map software can be loaded into the inner memory meanwhile our favorite music or videos will be playing from the SD card.
Let's go!
The strong Sirf Atlas III 400 Mhz processor is responsible for the communication with the satellites which is able to receive the datas of even 30 satellites at the same time. Our device contains no pre-installed map software letting the customer to choose freely. Any kind of navigation software, which is compatible with Win CE 5.0, runs on this device.
Travel with music
When you don't use the navigation, N770 can be your music center or video player, not only in your car but in a hotel room also. The most well-known file extensions (MP3, WMA, WAV) plays smoothly. If you don't want to disturb your travelmates just plug your earphones.
Navigation or MP5 player?
Entertaining funtions have no limits. N770BT plays not only music but movies as well! Many extension can be played without convertion; AVI, DVIX, XVID, WMV, ASF, MPEG1, MPEG2). These are the features of the brand new MP5 players but N770BT has the greater advantage: the big screen.
Photo and text viewer
As with multimedia players, photos (JPEG, BMP, GIF, PNG) and text documents (TXT) also viewable.
Easy connection
The device can be connected to PC via the well-known mini USB. Even better that we can choose between the Active-Sync and the disc solutions.
Specification
| LCD size: | 4.3" touch screen TFT LCD | ||
| LCD colours: | 65 536 shades | ||
| LCD resolution: | 480 x 272 pixel (16:9 ratio) | ||
| LCD orientation: | landscape | ||
| Processor (CPU): | Dual Core 400 MHz, SiRF Atlas III | ||
| Memory: | 2 GB (for storage) | ||
| Memory (RAM): | 64 MB (for running programs) | ||
| Bluetooth: | no | ||
| GPS receiver: | Atlas III, (30 channels) | ||
| Memory card: | SD, SDHC slot | ||
| Loudspeaker: | Built-in | ||
| Earphone output: | 3.5mm jack | ||
| Operating system: | Windows CE 5.0 | ||
| USB: | Mini-B USB | ||
| Battery type: | Lithium Ion | ||
| Map software: | Optional | ||
| Size: | 115 x 85 x 19 mm |
Tracking Device Helps Owners Recover Vehicle
Across the country, buy here-pay-here car dealerships have increasingly begun installing GPS tracking devices on the cars that they sell. In an effort to prevent theft both from the lot and by buyers who can’t make their payments, the dealerships rely on the location information retrieved from the devices to keep a close eye on their assets. While some buyers balk at the potential for privacy invasion created by the devices, others express understanding and even gratitude for the ability to track their cars.
Not only can the installation of tracking devices help dealerships monitor cars that still legally belong to them, but they can also help recover cars that have been stolen from their new owners. One such case occurred in Anderson, South Carolina when a van was stolen from a parking lot.
The owners called the police, told them about the tracking unit that had been installed by the dealership where the purchased the vehicle, and within moments officers had a positive location. They were able to locate and retrieve the car with little trouble, arresting the two perpetrators before they made it out of town.
While cases like this one may be rare, they still act as a deterrent for other would-be car thieves. Knowing that many dealerships now install the devices in every car they sell can cause thieves to think twice before driving off in that new Honda. As car dealership owners have settled into the use of GPS tracking, they have also learned a few things about the best way to handle privacy issues.
By disclosing the use of the devices before completion of the sale and by assuring buyers that the devices will be activated only for retrieval purposes if they default on their payments and fail to return the vehicle, dealers can keep themselves out of the legal mire and ensure that owners feel safe as they drive around town.
GPS and Privacy
In 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated that cellular phone companies were to install equipment into their phone to locate them in emergency situations. Phones that have this equipment have Enhanced 911 (E911) ability. E911 came about to help locate callers who had no way to communicating their whereabouts.
The most important part about E911 is that it utilizes Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS was developed in the military as a navigation tool. However, it is also a honing device for users with smart phones. GPS units have been used to prosecute criminals, enable crimes and track family and employees movements. Many argue that under the Fourth Amendment, data acquired from GPS devices are illegally obtained.
Under the fourth amendment, American citizens are guaranteed protection against unreasonable search and seizures. However, police officers do not need a warrant to obtain GPS data about suspects' whereabouts. GPS data have been used in court cases to prosecute criminals. Also there are cases in which police officers attach GPS devices to suspected vehicles. This brings up the question of how protected citizens are from emerging technology. Many court cases have arisen that argue that obtaining GPS data without a warrant is not only an invasion of privacy but unconstitutional.
GPS technology has proven beneficial in helping parents keep track of children. Sprint Family Locator and Verizon Wireless Chaperone are two such services that allow parents to locate their children in real time using GPS enabled phones. Also GPS devices in cars helps parents keep track of their teenagers driving habits. This includes not only their whereabouts but also driving speed.
In addition, parents can designate off limit areas that their children are not allowed to enter. In some services parents are automatically notified by an email of phone call when the vehicle enters the prohibited area. It was a big issue in 2008 when New York City made it mandatory for taxi cabs to be equipped with new technology. The New York Taxi Workers Alliance argued that their supervisors had no right to know where a Taxi was when drivers were off duty.
Taxi Drivers felt that their privacy was being invaded because of this. Yet there have been cases in which employers have installed GPS devices into company vehicles without notifying drivers. These drivers were fired when GPS data proved they were lying about their whereabouts. This brings up the issue of how much privacy employees are guaranteed. By using company resources, such as cell phones and vehicles, employers argue that there is no expectation of privacy in such case.
GPS technology has become popular among social networking websites. Sites such as FaceBook, Twitter and FourSquare allow its members to check in to locations in real time. These feature broadcast member's locations to their network. Over prolong amount of time users movements can become predictable. This makes it easier for users to be targets of crime such as robbery and assault. However, these sites give their users the ability to opt of location update.
There are also applications that utilize GPS technology. These applications allow members to find neighborhood stores that match their search. GPS technology has both positive and negative effects. GPS data is used to monitor and prosecute criminals. However some believe that employers abuse such technology by monitoring employees. However, since there is no real way to opt out of being track, there is no guarantee of privacy. This is because there is no way to turn off GPS. The only way to opt out is to not travel with an portable device.
These are the top 5 car gadgets
The past few years have seen a big influx of car gadgets, and many consumers will not consider even the best looking car if it doesn't have the gadgets and technology they need. Simply put, people are hooked on gadgets, gizmos and all sorts of tech for their cars and trucks. From music - to Bluetooth - to GPS - to onboard PCs, the automobile's primary attraction is not so much the big engine anymore, but rather, all of the bright shiny electronics that accompany them.
These are the top 5 car gadgets that people are interested in when purchasing a car:
Keyless Ignition:
Cars with remote ignition make it easy to warm your auto during the winter. With this gadget, you can push a button and the car starts heating up for you, while simultaneously locking the doors and securing the car. But if you really want to keep your hands free to battle corruption, you should go keyless. With a keyless ignition system, you keep a key fob in your pocket. A sensor will detect the key fob's presence in the car and start. All the driver has to do is push a button on the dash and press the brake.
Back-up Parking Camera:
According to safety advocacy group "Kids and Cars", two children are killed and 48 children are seriously injured every week because a driver that was backing up didn't see them. Enter back-up parking cameras. These cameras send live images of what's behind the car to a dashboard screen.
The image comes up as soon as the driver puts it into reverse. Luxury cars add motion sensors to the camera system that detect movement, so if the camera doesn't catch a possible hazard, the sensor and subsequent warning "beep" will. This is a gadget that comes ready-installed in some vehicles, but wireless and wired after-market versions are also available.
Bluetooth:
We're all familiar with Bluetooth headsets for the cell phone. Bluetooth is a wireless signal that allows compatible devices to communicate with each other. Many car manufacturers are equipping their cars with Bluetooth at the factory. Callers can be piped into the car speakers for easy listening. Bluetooth is also being used in vehicles to stream music wirelessly from your Bluetooth media or phone device to your car stereo.
Navigation Systems:
The old days of reading a map or driving around in circles are over. Now even some economy cars are including GPS devices into their vehicles. You can get turn-by-turn directions from Point A to Point B. When you plug in a start and end point, a navigation device uses information from governmental positioning satellites to get you where you want to go.
Just follow the prompts of your friendly guide (some models let you pick the voice!) and you're on your way. Some navigation gadgets also include MP3 players and directories to help you find the nearest pizza joint. More sophisticated devices have apps you can load, and technology that can determine car accidents on your route home or re-route you to avoid heavy traffic.
iPod Connection:
iPod faithfuls want to be able to take their music anywhere, even their cars. An MP3 player connection is becoming standard in many vehicles, but some car makers are going specifically after those Apple fans. An iPod-specific connection allows the driver to select iPod tracks through the car's stereo system, sometimes from the steering wheel itself.
So how do car gadgets and the advancements in consumer electronics affect car manufacturing in general? The convergence of consumer electronics and automobiles has never been more evident than with the cars, trucks and SUVs being built today. People switch in and out of their vehicle in much the same way they switch out of their cell phones - and in a growing number of cases it's because of in-car technology.
LeaseTrader.com reports that since 2009, lease trades for in-car tech has surged. More people are escaping their lease because they view cars similar to cell phones and crave newer technology features and upgrades more frequently.
In much the same way a cell phone user switches to a newer version with upgraded features before completing the two-year contract, drivers and car enthusiasts are starting to feel the same itch. LeaseTrader.com says its lease-escape rate for this reason has jumped 37.6 percent since 2009. During the previous five-year period from 2004-09 this pool of people grew a tepid 12.3 percent.
"Consumer electronics is an area that's so important to people today – even non-techies," said Doug Newcomb, senior editor of technology for Edmunds.com. "The average consumer wants to enjoy the same type of technology features in their car as in their home or smart phone."
Prior to 2009, the vast majority of drivers changing vehicles because of technology features resided primarily among higher end luxury and European vehicle leases. 85.3 percent of all trading activity took place among BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Infiniti and Lexus. Since 2009 that population has changed drastically, with Ford (16.2%) and GM (11.1%) stealing a much larger share within the category combining for 27.3 percent of trades.
A lot of the technology being traded for goes well beyond 9-11 assistance, made popular by GM and OnStar. Today, voice-recognition technology, the ability to synch a smart phone with a vehicle, social media capabilities, and local entertainment and dining searches are all popular technology sought out by the leasing crowd. What's more, these drivers are enjoying better access to vehicle diagnostics, as well as the ability to get stock quotes, movie times and sports scores at their fingertips or through voice command.
The recent economic downturn has created extraordinary market conditions for automotive manufacturers. With both General Motors and Chrysler moving past their bankruptcies, all manufacturers are shifting product lineups and canceling cars to help meet the new realities of different and growing demands, mainly car-technology. The coming months will see the potential for an unprecedented retirement of specific models and even entire car brands to make room for vehicles with advanced technology on board.
Car technology drives more revenue to the automakers when more and more people want to switch out their cars for newer tech models with new gadgets. And while cool car technology was once reserved only for luxury auto and truck models, auto makers like GM and Ford are recognizing this popular trend in consumer preferences, and including more technology in their mid-range and economy vehicles as well. This certainly drives more revenue for a lot of the auto industry. Granted this business model may reduce margins on lower-end cars, but car manufacturers are making that lower margin up with more volume due to more frequent trade-ins.
Car technology is also creating more technology and engineering jobs. Since more devices are included in car cockpits, not to mention the hard drives and computer processors that run many new engines these days, this technology movement has created a need for more advanced technicians and engineers to design today's modern vehicle.
We live in exciting times. Where once a vehicle was used to get from point A to point B, now we see our modes of transportation quickly becoming the nerve centers of our lives. And as the auto industry was once a declining market to our overall GNP, we are now seeing a resurgence in car companies who are recognizing that technology is saving their bottom line.
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