Have you ever thought about the amazing benefits that having auto navigation systems will bring to your life and travels? The more sophisticated systems available today provide much more than simple directions from point A to point B.
Today’s auto navigation systems are your one-stop travel shop when it comes to finding points of interest. (restaurants, fueling stops, and places to sleep along the way)
How Do Auto Navigation Systems Work?
Perhaps learning a little more about how auto navigation systems work will give you something to ponder. Something to think about when you get around to considering the impact that a device such as this can make in your life and the lives of your family members.
The thing to remember is that not all GPS or auto navigation systems are equal. There are different manners of creation along with different manners of functionality and design. However, they all work on very similar principles.
GPS systems use satellites that orbit the earth to send signals that are received by the GPS device. The system has software that interprets the signal and uses that data to form conclusions about the current location. It is based on the time it took to receive the signal from the satellite and the exact location of the satellite that sent the data.
By combining that information a conclusion can be drawn by the GPS as to the exact position of the GPS device. Three satellites are used to decide the point of intersection and a fourth satellite insures the accuracy of the data.
Auto navigation systems are more sophisticated and much more functional than the original military GPS devices that were used. You can not only get directions to guide you on your trip, but you can also get information about local destinations, restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and a few other points of interest along the way.
Upgrading auto navigation systems
Many auto navigation systems have upgrade packages that allow you to purchase a subscription, which will provide you with up-to-the-minute information about traffic, weather, and construction along your route.
The subscription costs for these services may be a deterrent for the casual driver. But will prove priceless to those who rely on correct directions and being on time while traveling extensively through work.
Be sure that whenever you purchase a GPS or auto navigation system that the system you purchase is easily upgraded. It does no good to have a system that is capable of being upgraded if you can’t figure out how to upgrade it. Many of these systems can be upgraded by using something as simple as a CD or DVD.
New roads are always being made and old roads are often closed for construction and upgrades. If you do not have the latest data you are essentially driving without auto navigation systems.
7 Ways to Utilize Auto Navigation Systems and GPS Technology
Most of today’s GPS and auto navigation systems use Global positioning technology. The truth is that this technology while once reserved for the wealthy is now trickling into mainstream America.
We are seeing this technology in cell phones to assist with 911 calls. There are many ways in which GPS technology is currently making our lives easier. We are seeing this technology in automobiles to track and possibly retrieve them if they are stolen. We are also seeing this technology used to help lost animals find their way back to the homes of their families.
There are countless nifty features that these devices have in common. Not all devices utilize the very same technology. Cell phones today in addition to handheld auto navigation systems are using technology that makes travel and locating lost children, pets, and other loved ones a little bit easier to manage in today’s hectic world.
Below you will find some great ways that this technology helps enhance your overall travel experience.
Trip Planning
Not only are auto navigation systems great to have while on your trip, but they are also quite useful when planning your trip. Your children can listen along with you as you plan your trip and find out mesmerizing places to stop, view the scenery, and get some great chow along the way.
You should also be able to quite easily find out about neat shopping, shows, and other points of interest en route as well. Finding something for everyone keeps the entire family happy on your trip.
GPS technology allows security and safety in many cars that use OnStar technology as well. This technology cannot only track the location of your car but also able to call for help in emergencies. This device activates by the push of a button and can even small children can use it in emergencies.
Finding restaurants, theatres, and nearby malls.
This is very important not only when traveling to your destination but also once you’ve arrived. Many of the more excellent auto navigation systems on the market today can sort restaurants that are nearby.
These systems are much more than simple software for the sole purpose of giving directions. They are fully functional navigational tools. Some of them even have recreation features, which will allow them to use as ebook readers and/or MP3 players.
Finding shortcuts along your route to work, important meetings, job interviews, conventions, and personal appointments. This is awesome if you are running into a time crunch or worse need an alternate route as the result of a traffic jam or road closure.
Keeping tabs on family in crowded situations
Even in the mall, you can have family members going off in different places and keep track of them all. This is also true at graduation ceremonies and other events, which may call for family members to spread out over a large amount of space leaving some out of sight at times.
Security when away from home
The idea of being away from home, particularly with teens can be very frightening. We want them to be independent and at the same time, we want to never let them out of our sight. Having a cell phone that allows GPS tracking of your teen is a great way to have the best of both worlds.
Keep track of teens and children by using services such as uLocate Communications. With the click of a button on your cell phone or simply tracking from home via the Internet, you can find all members of your family that are carrying their cell phones. You can keep a watchful eye on where they are without having them in your direct line of sight. This allows them the freedom to pursue their own interests and the security of watching that happen.
The benefits of this feature to your peace of mind alone are well worth the monthly subscription fee. The fee can be as low as $4 a month depending on which service you choose.
Keeping track of the elderly
This is especially beneficial if you have a loved one that suffers from Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia. Technologies are improving continuously. It will hopefully reach a point very soon where ID bracelets much like the medic alert bracelets will allow GPS tracking that is even more reliable for the elderly. The relief of knowing that you can find your loved one even if he or she has wandered off and forgotten how to get home is something that you really can’t put a price tag on.
Tracking important items while traveling
This may not seem like such a big deal until you’ve dealt with lost luggage a time or two. The truth is that this is a huge load off the minds of many, especially when it comes to laptops and electronic gadgets that have important information.
Lost pets
The technology exists to have your pets implanted with chips. You can locate your precious pet without spending continued hours searching and whistling with the help of chips placed in collars. The real beauty of this is that you won’t have to spend hours comforting sad children; you can take them to the computer and let them help you track Fido.
There are many great ways that GPS and auto navigation systems help every day to improve our lives. The methods mentioned above are simply icing on the cake.
If you haven’t considered these reasons for purchasing an auto navigation system or making use of the many options for safety and security that GPS Technology allows in your life, it is time to give these things some serious thoughts. Our children are the most important thing in the world we can protect. It is well worth the minimal investment in the software needed to assist in keeping them safe.
GPS Navigator with Free Lifetime Map Updates, Live Traffic, and Weather
Garmin dezl 580 LMT-S
- 5.0” auto navigator with maps of North America, Plus free lifetime map updates and free Live traffic
- Customized truck routing for the size and weight of your truck, Plus alerts for upcoming bridge heights, and weight limits.Display resolution:480 x 272 pixels
- Easy break planning with timely notifications for breaks, Plus up ahead road signs to recommend nearby restaurants, rest areas
- Control dēzl with your voice, and enjoy Bluetooth hands-free calling and built-in Wi-Fi for easy map. This USB mass storage device is compatible with Windows XP or newer and Mac OS X 10.4 or later
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