Peminat Ilmu Geografi

TomTom in Toyota Yaris Dashboard

2007-09-26T23:35:00.000-07:00

As reported by Letsgodigital, TomTom has launching of the first portable GPS embarked available in a car manufacturer. The new Toyota Yaris could be equipped, in option, of a TOmTom GPS navigation integrated into its stereo system of series. The series of Tomtom that fit in Toyota Yaris is Eclipse AVN2210p which features Bluetooth and integrate smoothly with the existing car audio system. The customers of Toyota Yaris can from now on benefit from all the advantages of TomTom, like the update of the charts and the software, the portability and the access to the contents and services of TomTom, available using the free software in TomTom site.

U.S. Map Vectorized in MagicTracer

2007-09-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

Neat program that converts bitmaps into vector lines for Illustrator or CAD. The MagicTracer program shown here vectorizing an U.S. map.
MagicTracer is a raster to vector converter for Windows. With over 100 customizable functions, MagicTracer works as your all-purpose tool for raster to vector converting. It even comes complete with a simple interface and real-time previews that allow you to see how a custom setting will affect your project. View the videos to see some demonstrations.

Magictracer designed for use by architects, sign makers and graphic artists, MagicTracer is unusual in providing the ability to edit both the original raster and traced vector versions of an image, and supplying an overlay mode that allows users to view both simultaneously. The resulting DXF files can be imported and edited by most vector drawing applications, such as Adobe Illustrator.

GPS Locator Phone for Kid

2007-09-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

The Wherifone is the world's smallest GPS cell phone for children, and it provides affordable peace-of-mind to the modern mobile family.

What makes Wherifone different is that parents control who their child can call, and they can locate their child with a built-in global positioning capability — state-of-the-art GPS. While it won't work everywhere, the unique Aided-GPS locator technology built into the phone lets it be located in lightly obstructed areas, such as many types of wood frame buildings and vehicles, and under dense foliage.

The Wherifone GPS Locator Phone is a cell phone safety solution that families can rely on.

GPS Child Locator Watch

2007-09-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

That's why Wherify created the world's first GPS Personal Locator to help you determine your child's location in minutes. Wherify's GPS Child Locator helps keep loved ones safe by combining Wherify's patented technology with the U.S. Department of Defense's multi-billion dollar Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites plus the largest 100% digital, nationwide PCS wireless network.

LOCATE YOUR CHILDREN IN TWO EASY STEPS:
1. Call or log on to web site to track your child by GPS satellite immediately. 2. We'll map your child's location within feet and provide the closest street address.

Package Contains:
• GPS Personal Locator Watch
• Key Fob
• AC Battery Charger
• GPS Watch User Guide
• Quick Start Guide

Integrate vehicle tracking ,car alarm, realtime video in one device

2007-09-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

GlobalTrack is the world first vehicle tracking system support Google Earth. This Vehicle navigation support Camera ,Fuel level Sensor,Temperature Sensor ,Wireless Panic Pad , Internal battery , smart features. GlobalTrack integrate vehicle tracking ,car alarm , realtime video and analog measurement functions in one device. This vehicle tracking system is a powerful and low cost vehicle tracking device. Not only gps data, GlobalTrack can send remote fuel ank level reading back to server in realtime. All fuel reading information geocoded with location , time , speed ( gps navigation information ) for server analysis. With Muti tasking OS, GlobalTrack support both GPS and external device data sending at the same time without data loss. This package include 1:1000000 scale world map (250MB)

GPS For Your Pet

2007-09-25T01:50:00.000-07:00

It's about GPS or pet? Yeah, it's about GPS for your pet. We call it Globalpetfinder, the GPS tracking device with cellular wireless technology keeps pets from getting lost. Check on your pets' location at any time by dialing F-O-U-N-D from the two way device you've chosen, your pet will respond with their position.
If your pet wanders outside the boundary you have determined, you will be alerted immediately and sent the continuously updated location of your pet, to the 2-way wireless device of your choice; cell phone, pda, computer, etc.
Details about globalpetfinder...

Maptech MapServer by Maptech, Inc.

2007-09-24T21:58:00.000-07:00

Maptech's MapServer is free. You can view, mark locations with an icon, link the icon to any URL, save your icon's location in your personalized "My Maps," and share that with a friend or colleague.
Also, print and e-mail USGS topographic maps, digital orthophoto quadrangles, aero charts and NOAA nautical charts online. Maptech's MapServer allows access to the largest online database of NOAA digital charts and USGS maps available in the world.

Military GPS

2007-09-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

The PLGR is the most widely used GPS receiver in the military today. PLGRs are used by infantry as handheld sets, by Artillery to plot precise positions for gun systems, in tracked and wheeled vehicles, and most recently as a replacement for the WRN-6 shipborne receiver on Army watercraft. PLGR is a key element in Task Force XXI, providing real-time, precise position data for all combat elements to the battlefield information systems.
The PLGR is a self-contained, hand-held, five-channel, single frequency GPS receiver that provides accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) data to individual warfighters and integrated platform users. PLGR supports position location, target location, rendezvous and en-route and terminal navigation.

more details check http://army-gps.robins.af.mil/UE/plgr.htm

Infrared Satellite Images of changing Seasons

2007-09-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Changing seasons as viewed from space in infrared.

satellite images

2007-09-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

Satellite imagery is sometimes supplemented with aerial photography, which has higher resolution, but is more expensive per square meter. Satellite imagery can be combined with vector or raster data in a GIS provided that the imagery has been spatially rectified so that it will properly align with other data sets.

AL GORE: Global Warming Testimony

2007-09-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

Al Gore testifies to the House Energy.

A Global Warning...

2007-09-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

Global Warming

2007-09-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Global warming refers to the increase in the average temperature of the Earth's near-surface air and oceans in recent decades and its projected continuation. An increase in global temperatures is expected to cause other changes, including sea level rise, increased intensity of extreme weather events, and changes in the amount and pattern of precipitation. Other effects of global warming include changes in agricultural yields, glacier retreat, species extinctions and increases in the ranges of disease vectors.

Garmin Nuvi 350 Review

2007-09-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

Garmin's nüvi 350 is a portable GPS navigator, traveler's reference and digital entertainment system, all in one. It is your pocket-sized personal travel assistant ready for adventure. Simply touch the colour screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions.

Satellite images related to the Amazon Hope project in Peru

2007-09-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

The Amazon Hope medical project is run by The Vine Trust and Scripture Union Peru (partner organisations) to provide health services to some of the poorest and most isolated communities in the Peruvian Amazon.

AutoSteer Vehicle Rig - Surface Tracking 1

2007-09-23T19:09:00.000-07:00

New and improved surface tracking. Now the rig can climb ramps!

AutoSteer Vehicle Rig - Surface Tracking 2

2007-09-23T19:03:00.000-07:00

Demonstrating surface tracking with spline path constraint. The only keyframes are controlling the rigs velocity along the spline. Surface tracking does the rest.

Holux GPSlim 240 Wireless Bluetooth GPS Receiver

2007-09-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

Holux GPSlim 240 is the latest Bluetooth GPS receiver from Holux. This Wireless Bluetooth GPS Receiver completed with Dual function (Bluetooth GPS+ G-mouse), built-in rechargeable Li-Ion battery for about 8 hrs. operation and compatible with Bluetooth Serial Port Profile (SPP) completely. To work as serial GPS, optional data cable is required. This GPS completed with 20 parallel satellite-tracking channels for fast acquisition and reacquisition. Similar to the popular Holux GPSlim 236 Bluetooth GPS receiver, Holux GPSlim 240 is a 2-in-1 serial / Bluetooth GPS ideal for laptop and PDA navigation applicaitons.

Lowrance iWAY™ 600C Automotive GPS Navigation

2007-09-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

All-new, street and marine navigation with satellite imagery. Includes a built-in MP3 player and FM modulator. Amazing 640x480 16-bit color TFT touch-screen display. Also includes a 30GB hard drive. Taking a whole new direction in utility and value, the iWAY™ 600C is the first to offer both precision street-ready and marine-ready navigation... including a wealth of road mapping, plus charting for inland and coastal waters with depth contours. Also displays detailed satellite imagery of cities with streets overlay. All in one complete waterproof package at an affordable price. Built-in, precision 12-parallel channel GPS+WAAS receiver and maps can be updated through the internal USB port with a PC Windows® XP, ME, 2000, or Macintosh OS X.
With 30GB internal hard drive, and 25GB of storage dedicated to high-detail mapping and satellite imagery (10GB dedicated to mapping detail for Western Europe models)

Garmin Map Update 2008 City Navigator North America

2007-09-15T03:08:00.000-07:00

Use the Garmin Map Update 2008 North America NT DVD For the most up-to-date mapping in a Garmin product. This new generation of Garmin Map Update allows customers a simple and convenient way to update the detailed maps and the latest (over 6 million) points of interest in their NT-compatible Garmin product. Garmin users with compatible devices will now have all the latest details to navigate with confidence. This map update DVD offers full coverage of North America - United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This Garmin Map update is compatible with the Garmin type: StreetPilot i5, c330, c340, c530, c550, c580, 7200, 7500, 2720, 2730 and 2820; nüvi 200, 250, 350, 360, 370, 650, 660, 670 and 680; zumo 450 and 550, GPSMAP 478 and 496, Quest 2.

i-Blue 737 Bluetooth GPS Receiver

2007-09-15T02:53:00.000-07:00

Try this new generation GPS receiver: i-Blue 737 Bluetooth GPS Receiver. i-Blue 737 Bluetooth GPS Receiver based on new MTK chipset which offers best accuracy and highest sensitivity. When you use i-Blue 737 for the first time, just power up and place the receiver under the windshield in car. Anytime when a paired PDA or laptop computer with Bluetooth connectivity is onboard, i-Blue will wake up on Bluetooth for your navigating usage. When Bluetooth signal is not present, i-Blue will go into sleeping mode automatically (Slow blinking blue LED). The patented Smart Power Save and Auto On/Off technology offers 25 hours battery life on one single charge. i-Blue 737 Bluetooth GPS receiver is equipped with the new 32 channel MTK chipset which offers ultra high sensitivity at -158dBm. i-Blue 737 supports DGPS (RTCM protocol, WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS) for great accuracy at 2.5m.

Google Earth Featured Content Layer from Trimble

2007-09-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Trimble Outdoors and leading national publications—BACKPACKER, Bicycling and Mountain Bike magazines—is now provide Premium GPS-based information as a Google Earth Featured Content Layer.

This multimedia GPS content layer allows Google Earth users to access a wide variety of data on fitness and outdoor adventures, including routes, GPS tracks, points of interest, trailhead directions, trail descriptions, photos, video and audio clips.

A Google Earth user can view a 3D trip of running, bicycling or hiking destination. For example, hikers can experience the Pacific Trail online by viewing hundreds of photos, audio clips and videos from BACKPACKER Magazine through Google Earth.

Google Earth users can export the layer data to any WAP-capable mobile phone, experience it via a GPS-enabled mobile phone with Trimble Outdoors' fitness and outdoor recreational applications, or download to a stand-alone GPS device.

Wireless Bluetooth ™ GPS Receiver

2007-09-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

The high performance GPS receiver is ideal for use in urban environments. On the road or walking around the city streets, it will make sure you find your way with ease. It can be configured to work with a variety of Pocket PC, Palm devices and Smart mobile phones.
The GPS receiver uses Bluetooth technology to eliminate the need for connecting cables, and a high performance GPS antenna to ensure the best possible reception wherever you go. This Wireless GPS receiver can be used in the car, or in your bag or pocket for use on bike or on foot.

TomTom RIDER

2007-09-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

With TomTom Rider -the modern GPS navigation technology- you always know your location and where to go. This GPS Designed for two wheels, easy-to-use touchscreen: Tailored for simple use with gloves and just plug in, switch on your TomTom Rider & ride!
TomTom RIDER GPS is the first portable navigator specifically designed for 2 wheels.
TomTom RIDER is rugged, water resistant, fits both motorcycles and scooters and provides you even with clear spoken instructions in your helmet. TomTom Rider is the first Bluetooth motorcycle GPS system features an anti-glare touchscreen that responds even if you’re wearing gloves. Use the headset to listen to directions or talk on your Bluetooth cell.

Garmin Nuvi 760 Pocket Vehicle GPS Navigator

2007-09-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

Garmin Nüvi 760 comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator® NT street maps and millions of points of interest (POIs) such as hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, ATMs and more. Simply touch the color screen GPS to enter a destination, and nüvi GPS takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions.
With Garmin nüvi 760's widescreen display, you'll always get the big picture. View map detail, driving directions, photos and more in bright, brilliant color. Its sunlight-readable, 4.3-inch display is easy to read — from any direction.
garmin nüvi 760's high-sensitivity internal (non flip-up) antenna gives it a sleeker, thinner design than the nüvi 600-series, making it easy to slip in your pocket or purse. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery makes it convenient for navigation by car or on foot.

GPS PRO dog collar: GPS Pet Tracking

2007-06-18T02:09:00.000-07:00

Just call the dog, to track & find your dog with your mobile phone! A GPS receiver and a GSM modem with special software is incorporated into the dog collar. This unique GPS PRO Dog collar tracking system is an universal and completly new technology for finding, pursuing or tracking your dog. Two versions are available:

* GPS collar (250 g weight, without collar belt, the belt is included in the price)
* GPS backpack (200 g weight) to fit on a harness

The GPS PRO Dog system works if the satellite antenna on top of the collar/backpack is able to find signals from at least 4 satellites and if the area where the dog is moving is coverd by GSM network.

image source: www.environmental-studies.de

GPS Mio H610 : fashionable GPS for Girls

2007-02-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

The H610 is a GPS that delightfully compact GPS that combines the latest satellite navigation technology with a photo viewer, games, MP3 and video player. It's nice to hear it ?
Inside the H610 are maps of 24 European countries provided by Tele Atlas for seamless navigation. And you can brush up on your exotic language skills by having your H610 talk to you in Portuguese, Czech or Swedish; 16 languages to choose from.
Find restaurants, museums, monuments just by clicking on the POI (Point of Interest) button. A name is all you know? From Coliseum in Rome to Eiffel Tower in Paris, the search function will help you find what you are looking for.
And the great news is: you can entertain yourself by playing games on a long, endless ride. Games include GameBox Classic: Fireball, GameBox Gems, Flux Challenge and Plumbin Frenzy'.

5 Top Picks For Handheld GPS

2006-07-08T21:27:00.000-07:00

by: John Rivers

Before, people have laboriously made sure they know where they are heading to just to avoid getting lost. They created detailed maps, erected landmarks, and memorized the positions of the stars in the night sky. But that was before.

Later, with the availability of accurate maps, nobody has to memorize the stars in the sky and nobody has to erect landmarks.

Today, there is no need to do all these things. With a device that could pinpoint your exact location in an instant, you can eliminate all the hassles of early practices. So when you are out for a hike, mountain climb, or just a simple camp out on the wilderness, all you need is one device: handheld GPS.

To help you choose one that is right for you, here are the top picks for handheld GPS:

· Cobra GPS 1000 DLX Handheld Navigator- is a battery operated handheld GPS that is capable of guiding your way through different US state highway, boundaries, European countries, provincial boundaries of Canada, and several other worldwide cities. All you have to do is install your desired location from a software to this receiver and you will see where you are going in its 2.8in w x 6.1in h x 1.3in d 1.8in w x 2.4in h display. It uses Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) for more accurate pinpointing of location with ASAP II Technology™ that makes this handheld GPS works 2 times faster that ordinary GPS receiver. It uses a 32 mega-byte memory card for map installation. The Cobra GPS 1000 DLX Handheld Navigator keeps you on course wherever you are.

· Garmin eTrex Vista – If there could be one GPS available in the market today with supreme functionality and jam-packed features; the Garmin eTrex Vista should be the one. The Garmin eTrex Vista has 24MB internal memory capacity capable of storing numerous kinds of data and can store different types of maps. The high resolution LCD gives Garmin eTrex Vista the advantage in giving crisp details for easy reading even for small type. With the use of Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), it provides less than 3 meters of position accuracy. And the eTrex can stay dry for 30 mins under 3 ft. of water with its waterproof coating and rubber for shock absorption.

· StreetPilot 2650 GPS Handheld – Once you are out on the wild or making finding the way between tall buildings, the StreetPilot 2650 can do its job best. It possesses all features of the 2610 as well as a large color display, built-in maps, a voice prompt, and an automatic route capability with touch screen that makes navigation easier. It can pinpoint your exact position with accuracy that depends on the WAAS technology.

· Garmin eTrex Standard – If you want simple yet could make your way to your desired destination, the Garmin eTrex should be your choice. Though it lacks other upgraded features you would look for a GPS, you wont be having any trouble using it. This pocket size GPS is perfect for beginners.

· Magellan GPS 315 – If you want worldwide navigation, this one is for you. With more than 15,000 cities available, this pocket-sized GPS could get you going anywhere in the world.

These 5 wrap up the top picks for handheld GPS. It is up to you to decide which one you should prefer.

About The Author

John Rivers is the owner of GPS Navigation Systems. On his website you can find information on everything related to GPS. http://www.gps-navigation-systems.net.

Improve Customer Service With GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems

2006-04-03T01:26:00.000-07:00

by: Ken Sink

Business owners: use GPS vehicle tracking systems to improve customer service and bring your business into the Information Age.

The Information Age allows us to read breaking news, review up-to-the-minute stock-market information and check on the status of our bank account—all on demand. We take for granted the ability to find what we want to know when we want to know it.

The concept of a constant flow of information through precise, up-to-the-minute notification is accepted by a majority of society. Having our email forwarded to our cell phones is another example of how ‘connected’ we are today.

So, why do we ask our customers to put up with delivery estimates of ‘sometime between 9 a.m. and noon?’ Do we put our customers on hold while we call our service technician to find out when they’ll be at the customer’s site?

Are you providing your customers with outstanding service? Are you taking advantage of every tool available? Or is your competition?

Consider using GPS vehicle tracking systems to bring your business into the Information Age.

Who should consider GPS vehicle tracking systems? Any business using vehicles, who has demanding customers and faces competition in selling a product available from several sources.

A broad spectrum of business types use GPS vehicle tracking systems. Florists, HVAC contractors, limousine companies, food and beverage distributors and many other businesses have all improved customer service through GPS tracking.

Why? GPS vehicle tracking systems provide up-to-the-minute information you can use to answer your customers’ questions. Improving customer service equates to more satisfied customers, resulting in more business and more profits.

With the real-time data provided by GPS vehicle tracking systems, you can tell your customer where your employee is right now and estimate more accurately when your employee will be arriving. WOW your customers with precise delivery estimates.

The historical data from GPS vehicle tracking systems will tell you and your customer when your employee last visited their site and how long they were there. You can also analyze visits to their location for the last 30 days or longer with data downloaded from your tracking system.

Using GPS vehicle tracking systems requires devices installed in each vehicle and a PC connected to the Internet. The system provider operates a secure server which displays data: speed, direction of travel, location. After logging into the server, you view the data using a web browser.

Some systems allow you to add a specific location, such as a customer’s building, to the map. This simplifies determining which vehicle is closest or visited that location last.

Where do GPS vehicle tracking systems work? Some GPS systems are limited to cellular system coverage areas; others use low-earth orbit communications satellites for coverage everywhere.

Now, before your competition realizes how to use GPS vehicle tracking to their advantage, research your options, pick your system and lease/buy it. Do it today.

Welcome to the Information Age.

About The Author

Ken Sink, owner of My Vehicle WatchDog, is a veteran with 20+ years of transportation experience, including fleet management of over 800 vehicles. Visit http://www.MyVehicleWatchDog.Info for more information about GPS vehicle tracking systems from Fleet Management Solutions, Networkfleet and Sprint/Nextel.

The Magical Stick that I called GPS

2006-04-01T06:03:00.000-08:00

by: Anang, yb

My grandpa loves Harry Potter, because this boy has a magical stick. And me, I love myself because in my pocket I have a ‘magical stick’ that I called GPS.
GPS (Global Positioning System) is my best friend. I don’t need spend money for him. GPS operates in any weather and temperature- from the snowy mountain to the tropical equatorial regions like Bali Island.
Some of the reasons GPS is my best friend are:
Worldwide coverage: My GPS that I buy in Indonesia can be used in Texas, India, or Philippines - the same equipment for anywhere.
Accurate three-dimensional positioning: GPS provide horizontal and vertical positions accurate.
Accurate timing: I know not only where, but also when because GPS signals provide very accurate time.
24-hour availability: GPS is not ambulance, but satellite data is available continuously 24 hours a day.

But best of all, GPS signal are free to all users. Hmm, it's nice to hear it? Maybe, this is a reason that GPS becoming the international standard for navigation. It's a powerful system, available to everyone, especially for you! In internet, you can find any free GPS software. The best place to find them is in http://www.free4map.com/

Today, GPS receivers are fast becoming small enough and cheap enough to be carried. You can find GPS in cigarette-box size. You can put GPS in your pocket and go anywhere. With GPS in your pocket (you need external antenna if you do this), you will have the ability to know exactly where they are, all the time.

Any GPS have electronic maps that will instantly show you the way to any destination. Imagine a future, when you are looking for Harry Potter’s bookstore, your GPS direct you to it immediately.

About author:
Anang, yb is a geographer. His website, http://www.free4map.com/, is an excellent resource for free mapping software.

How to Choose a GPS

2006-03-16T01:25:00.000-08:00

By: J. Chartwell
You've heard that new sport, geocaching, is fun. Or, you're tired of getting lost on your travels. Welcome to the 21st century. Global Postioning System (GPS) has been around long enough that prices are reasonable and the technology is user-friendly. With myriad brands and models, how to choose?

If you want a GPS for both hiking and driving use, then a handheld unit would be the way to go. Some handhelds even have accessories to allow them to be installed in an automobile. But don't rule out a PDA. More on that in a moment. For driving only, there are GPS receivers made just for vehicle use.

Handheld GPS receivers are either mapping or non--mapping. A basic, non--mapping unit can often cost less than $100 US and usually has/displays the following:

* Location
* Compass heading
* Elevation above sea level
* Accurate time
* Satellite location and signal strength
* The ability to calculate distance traveled
* The ability to record your path as a set of waypoints
* The ability to navigate routes
* The ability to retrace your steps

Handheld mapping receivers do all the above plus have the ability to display maps. The maps are either pre--loaded or uploaded from your PC. Prices are reasonable for mapping units, starting at around $150 US.

Paper maps are strongly recommended whether you're using a mapping receiver or not. Paper maps do not require batteries and probably won't go defective. Also, a paper map gives you a "big picture" view of your situation -- something lacking on the small screen of a GPS.

I mentioned earlier your considering a PDA with GPS capability. A PDA is bulkier and the battery life is usually shorter, but if you're using a PDA anyway, then there are several ways to turn a PDA into a GPS. Some PDAs accept a GPS "sleeve." That is a device that the PDA nestles into. Another choice is one of Garmin's PDAs. Garmin is probably the most popular GPS maker and they have one PDA/GPS that is Palm--based and one that is Pocket PC--based.

Prices for automotive GPS start at around $250 US. These provide turn--by--turn guidance. Spend a little more than that and you get voice guidance. These are larger than handhelds in order to accommodate a screen large enough to be seen while driving. They are powered by the car's electrical system and because of this, they can only be used in a vehicle.

Many automobile manufacturers now offer built-in GPS receivers as an option. Because they are built-in, the big advantages are security and aesthetics. They are quite a bit more expensive than add-on units and often have fewer options. I've also heard some stories of people having a hard time getting map updates.

A PDA/GPS is a good alternative for automotive use. Its screen is about the size of an automotive unit, so seeing the display is not a problem. They can also be powered by the car, eliminating battery worries. The Garmin PDAs mentioned above both come with the hardware and software for automotive use.

If you're hiking, a basic handheld unit (without maps) will be fine since you'll always have paper maps with you anyway (you will, won't you?). An advantage to a handheld mapping unit is that they usually have more advanced features than the basic units. For driving, you have the choice of a handheld, in--car dedicated, or PDA. The handheld does have limited usefulness in a car, as it does not provide turn--by--turn guidance. For a more detailed look at http://www.maps-gps-info.com/htcgp.html">how to choose a GPS, click here.

About the Author

J. Chartwell has developed http://www.maps-gps-info.com/gp.html">Maps GPS Info.com, which provides practical information on GPS and maps that everyone can use. The website includes product

Harry Potter's Geography and Mapping Lesson Plans: Add a Lit

2006-03-16T01:22:00.000-08:00

By: Valerie Giles
Lesson plans for mapping and geography can be inspired from the Harry Potter series of books. Harry Potter was very lucky when Ron's twin brothers gave him a magical map. This map showed him all the inside passageways at Hogwarts school including the grounds. As well it showed Every person's location as they walked through these passageways. Why not introduce some of these ideas in your science lesson plans or geography lessons for your class? Start with the story of Harry Potter and his magical map.

We know that there are no maps such as those used at Hogwarts school for us in our world, but many of our technological advances today employ GPS technology. Modern technology can pin point where we are and give us directions to where we want to go. Is this magic? No it is not. What is the technology that GPS uses in cars, boats and airplanes? Ask these questions in your lesson plans on mapping and geography.

Science lesson plans for cartography or map making can teach children how maps are made. Perhaps a lesson plan can include the mapping of your school including elevations if it has more than a ground floor. Or your students can make a map of their neighborhood. As well as streets remember to include important features such as bus stops, fire hydrants, parks and important buildings.

About the Author

Valerie Giles owns and operates http://www.cyber-prof.com"> Cyber-Prof: Teacher Resource Site an educational web site that specializes in resources for school and http://www.cyber-prof.com"> teacher supplies

Lost and Found in the Great Outdoors

2006-03-16T01:21:00.000-08:00

By: Maria Jeffs

Camping and hiking is a wonderful way to get close to nature. Hiking through the wilderness is uplifting and refreshing. However, there is something important that every camper should be aware of on a camping trip.

If you're heading off into a remote area, there is always the possibility that someone, adult or child, will end up getting lost. Prepare everyone in your party ahead of time about the do's and don'ts of navigation in the wilderness.

Someday you WILL become lost if you wander the backwoods long enough. The important thing is to be prepared when it does happen.

Have you ever heard the old adage, "Indian no lost; teepee lost." Be at home in the woods, and you'll never be truly lost. A night in the woods can't be too uncomfortable if you know how to deal with the situation.

Standard advice to a lost person: Don't panic. Everyone feels some trepidation, but never loose your sense of reason. Stop and listen to common sense. Don't let fear take over your sensibilities. Even experienced woodsmen have been lost, and panicked, then lost their life after becoming disoriented, losing their reasoning abilities to panic.

Instruct children what to do if they should become separated from you. Give everyone a whistle to hang around their neck. Teach a child that if he becomes lost, people will be looking for him, and not to hide from the "strangers" that are trying to help. Of course, they should know to be cautious around strangers at all other times. A recent boy scout who was lost in a Utah wilderness, stayed hidden for several days while searchers combed the woods around him!

Make sure your child understands that he shouldn't keep wandering when separated. Stop and wait for someone to come, instead of wandering farther away from the searchers.

Never head into the woods with out the basics along with you. Bring a map, compass, matches, and knife on every hike. You never know when something unpredicted will happen.

Bring along a compass and map of the area in which you are traveling. In these days of technology, a GPS is indispensable on wilderness backpacking and camping trips.

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. If you do this, rescuers will know where to start looking.

There are many ways to find your directions in the wilderness. The most common way is to locate the North Star at night. The wind in wilderness areas usually blows from the northwest, so the tall pine trees will lean slightly to the southeast. This is another way that can be quite accurate. The old folk tale about moss on the north side of trees, can't be relied on for positive directions, as moss can grow on all sides of a tree trunk.

Follow a stream downhill. This generally leads to civilization. (In the US that is.) Don't walk along the immediate bank, where there are many thickets, bog holes, side streams, and swamps. Follow the general water flow and it will lead you out of the woods.

When you finally realize that you are lost, stop, don't make the search into a foot race between you and the rescuers! In most parts of the US you can't be more than 24 hours away from searchers, if you will just cooperate.

Sit down think things out. Build a campsite on a riverbank or lakeshore if possible. Gather as much wood as you can before nightfall. Try to make yourself comfortable next to your campfire throughout the night.

The next morning is the time to go about getting yourself rescued. Gather up a large armful of green branch and pile them on your campfire. The smoke will billow into the air, making it simple for searchers to find you. Don't build more fires, just keep the one you have billowing smoke into the air. Sooner or later the forest service will see the smoke, and come to check out what's happening. Wave a piece of clothing (preferably light-colored) to signal that you are unhurt. Even if the plane leaves, stay put. They are probably radioing to the ground crew your location.

Stay by your fire, even when you hear people approaching. It's dangerous to leave the fire blazing. Also, the sounds in the woods can be deceiving. You may just be running in the opposite direction of the searchers if you head off after voices. Give them a chance to find you. If you have a gun, fire a shot. If not, shout loudly.

Getting lost can happen to anyone, even experience backpackers. The most important thing, is to stay sensible and help yourself by helping the searchers find you.

True wilderness survival is a matter of prevention and preparation. If you are prepared every time you enter the woods, you'll never be caught unprepared. Then you can enjoy the wilderness fully, be confident and even if you get lost, it's just another adventure!
About the Author

Maria Jeffs is an avid camper and hiker. Her website, http://www.my-favorite-camping-store.com Camp Spot, is an excellent resource for campers. Subscribe to the http://www.my-favorite-camping-store.com/camping-newsletter.html Camp Spot News for fun camping tips and stories delivered every month.

Easy Navigation in the Woods or on the Water with the Garmin

2006-03-13T20:04:00.000-08:00

By: NS Kennedy

I am an expert navigator with a map & compass but neither is as effective or as easy as the eTrex.

I highly recommend the Gramin eTrex as a basic navigational aide. It's also a great starter for learning about GPS systems. It does everything it's meant to and does it very well.

Garmin's claims of one handed usage are for real, it is easy to navigate the interface with the solid buttons on the unit."

The Garmin eTrex GPS has one of the longest battery lives on the market, another major influence to purchase, and because it is only powered by two AA batteries, the maintenance costs are minimal. I highly recommend the Garmin eTrex GPS to users of any skill looking for a quick, reliable and inexpensive GPS fix.

Nothing fancy about this unit -- other than the remarkably easy to use interface. Its not possible to do better in this price range.

The Garmin eTrex GPS works well (superbly well) for the sea kayaker. It's waterproof. You can pre-plot a destination if you know the coordinates. You simply utilize the "go to" feature and the eTrex points the way.

Like most modern hand-held units, the eTrex generates its own map of your movements as a visual tracklog or 'breadcrumb trail'. For retracing your steps ('Trackback' mode) you will see all the detail you will ever need.

About the Author

NS Kennedy is a keen outdoor sportsman - particularly hunting and fishing - and loves to find out about new gadgets and gizmos that he can use. He started his http://www.garmin-gps-navigation.com">Garmin GPS Navigation Reviews site http://www.garmin-gps-navigation.com to share his tips and findings with other sportsmen.

How GPS Works

2006-03-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

By: Anne King

Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigational aid originally developed for the military. The system simply receives signals. It is the applied technology that gives the GPS its versatility.

If you have ever used map and compass, you will understand a little about how the GPS works. In order to find your position on a map, you need to have three points of reference. The intersecting line from the reference points is where you are. Map and compass work uses triangulation (bearings), GPS uses trilateration (distances) to calculate location. Satellites orbiting the earth emit unique signals that can be received by a GPS. The GPS software interprets the signal, identifying the satellite that it came from, where it was located, and the time that it took for the signal to reach the system. Once the receiver has both time and distance it begins to determine position.

Three satellites provide the intersection point and the fourth is used to check that the positioning is accurate. Accuracy depends upon the synchronization of atomic clocks in the satellites with the clock in the GPS system. Although the clock in the GPS is not atomic, utilizing the fourth satellite gives it that functionality as the internal clock adjusts itself to correct any discrepancy discovered.

GPS has gone far beyond its initial military application. Drivers can find their way through city streets, long distance trekkers use the technology to cross unfamiliar terrain, mariners and pilots use GPS enhanced data to cross the seas and skies.

In--vehicle GPS can be integrated into the car entertainment system or can be installed as a removable device. These systems need to tell the driver where he/she is and how to reach their destination. The information includes road directions plus relevant features along the way such as rest stops, gas stations, points of interest, etc. Auto GPS uses voice commands so that the driver can concentrate on the road.

Hikers and trekkers use similar technology, but normally without the inclusion of road systems on their devices. Mapping software defines the territory that the hiker will encounter. The user can enter waypoints (points of reference) so they can return using the same route. They can add points of interest such as water sources, possible campsites, and other items of interest on their trail. However, the portability demanded by hikers will also limit the functionality of the system as small screens mean that some detail will be lost.

It is GPS technology that is used to track individuals on home arrest, to trace missing pets, stolen vehicles, and missing people. Small systems can be incorporated into pet collars and wristwatches. As long as the receiver is active, it can be found.

Marine and aviation GPS units are sophisticated and specialized. The principles involved are the same as any standard system; the software is much more highly developed.

Any fisherman, who is using a fish finder on his boat, is using a GPS that is enhanced by sonar and tracking devices. Units have been developed for use on float tubes also -– as
GPS technology advances, the systems become more and more compact and their uses more and more extensive.

If you are considering purchasing a GPS, make sure that it can be updated easily. This is especially true if you buy a multi--function GPS or one that is used where conditions change regularly. An in--vehicle GPS soon loses its usefulness if it is not updated as road systems change.

Updates vary according to the device being used. They can come in CD/DVD packages or as computer downloads. The user can purchase maps specific to the area in which the GPS will be used or a range of maps and routes. These are available from GPS software companies who will charge proportionally to the sophistication of the software.

GPS units vary in price according to their usefulness. It is possible to buy units for less than one hundred dollars to units costing more than one thousand dollars. What your needs are will be a factor in the cost of your unit. If you are a backpacker then portability is a major consideration. If you are a trucker, you need to be able to find a delivery point as quickly and conveniently as possible. Whatever device you go for, cost is generally related to quality. Buy the best you can afford.

About the author:
Anne King is a sports and recreation writer in Boise, Idaho. For http://www.maps-gps-info.com/gp.html">more GPS information, visit Maps GPS Info.com which provides practical information on GPS and maps that everyone can use. The website includes product reviews and a maps/GPS glossary.

Maps of Time and Tide

2006-03-13T20:01:00.000-08:00

By: Seamus Dolly

Maps, for centuries have been the business of cartographers with mariners traditionally being able to make their own, in uncharted waters. Yes, the expression is still used in various contexts. I suppose that given the nature of open seas, one had little option but to find their own way. When a courier pigeon was the quickest communication device for help, an understanding of mapping was essential to evade Davy’s Locker.

Land based cartographers were respected for their diligence and discipline that their trade required. Bench marking is another expression still used where a reference point is needed. It came from land surveyors and map makers. Particular heights above sea level were transferred inland, further and further, to give mappers some idea, as it couldn’t be guessed with any accuracy otherwise. Indeed, twenty years ago, these benchmarks were heavily relied upon, where the presence of any other reference, was absent.

Now though, local authorities and surveyors use GPS or Global Positioning System. Even local civil engineers have access to this technology, and use it for projects such as small housing and commercial estates to anything bigger. So the traditional benchmarking system, which was little more than a ground anchored “pad” of stone or concrete, has already been replaced by something that can view an area in a larger relative context, a satellite.

A satellites’ height above ground, or sea if you like, affords it a referencing advantage. There is no longer a need to physically walk to

the sea (sea level), and determine levels, thereafter. The sea is water, to some degree, and while the earth is round also to some degree, water was “the great leveller”. It has also been replaced by various liquids that are more visible, and have less tendency to obscure the inside of levelling chambers. Some have anti-freezing properties. You see, any accuracy relied on the visual clarity of the
waters position within its’ clear container, and of course the mappers understanding of parallax error. Parallax error is mainly a human one, where something is not viewed, correctly, or in cases like this, not viewed at 90 degrees exactly.

A photogrammetrist is a different version of a cartographer, and though their purpose is the same, their approach is different. They use aeroplanes in place of mountain boots, and indeed helicopters, which speed up the process. Indeed, some areas can only be practically mapped this way.

While the area of maps may have been considered to be boring to highly-strung teenagers, it is rapidly becoming a highly scientific and technically laden career.
There are still some sea floors that remain elusive or unexplored, mainly because they weren’t of particular concern. They are so remote from a human perspective, that they warrant little examination. For now anyway, they don’t interfere with sea or air navigation. If geologists can someway discover feasible mineral, oil or gas reserves, then commerce and necessity, perhaps, will induce a change in exploration priority. To people that plan for contingency, local maps provide some clues to flooding susceptibilities that short term memories have forgotten.

With global warming, this type of thing should be a consideration if you are planning your final or long-term home. In recent months within my area alone, the language of insurance companies suggests that they may decline their services, such is the climate change however subtle from a year to year basis, in combination with construction planning.

New construction projects have taken areas that historically, were flood plains, so where can the inevitable rains and their agreement with gravity, go? Within the home, is the answer.

To people that plan for contingency, somewhat extremely, those very same maps will offer guidance. Some dramatic predictions suggest that “a lump” of a particular volcanic island which is globally renowned for its’ tourism, may slip into the sea. The same prediction suggests that it is being undermined by the sea, through corrosion. If this happens then a tsunami might demolish everything within fifty miles of seaboards.

It is a prediction, not a guarantee, like most future-related things.

One thing is more certain, perhaps, and that is that maps are essential, even if the medium which records them has changed from stone to parchment to disk.

About the Author

Seamus Dolly is at www.CountControl.com