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GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels

Have you ever tried to find your way across town (or across the country) using an old-fashioned road map? The only thing trickier than deciphering the directions, is figuring out how to re-fold the map! Today's travelers are finding it much easier to find their way with GPS receivers, PDA devices and Bluetooth technology.

Every since GPS became widely available on the market the need for maps and large navigational devices became redundant. Today's traveler can refer to the tiny computer screen on the GPS receiver to find exactly where to go.

A GPS receiver is a small electronic device that can actually calculate your precise location on earth. The GPS is able to decode signals sent from satellites in outer space, and use those signals to tell you where you are at any given time. When combined with specialized software and electronics, the GPS is able to pinpoint an exact location on a map, and give you instructions on how to get there. This fascinating technology becomes even more incredible when you discover that it can be had for a relatively small price.

GPS receivers become even more useful and convenient when paired with other mobile devices. A PDA is a popular consumer product that is easily used along with a GPS. PDAs have hard drive space to allow for map storage and colored screens to display maps, making them ideal technological GPS partners. When one takes into account the small size and weight of a compact PDA as compared to options such as laptop computers, it's easy to see why PDAs are the choice of today's tech-savvy travelers.

Integration poses a problem with using a PDA with a GPS receiver. Most PDAs are connected to GPS receivers with either a CompactFlash (CF) card, or conventional USB wires. The size of the GPS, added to the size of the PDA, plus a CF can create a bulky and cumbersome system. Using wires, on the other hand, can be inconvenient and actually limit the usability of your navigation device. Many people are finding the best solution to the problem is through Bluetooth technology.

Bluetooth Solution

Bluetooth technology is the new standard for wireless communications. With Bluetooth technology, two electronic devices are able to communicate by sending and retrieving signals and transferring data from as many as ten meters away. The information is transmitted without any wires at all.

Bluetooth with GPS Receivers

Bluetooth GPS receivers are electronic devices that use wireless technology or Bluetooth electronics to transmit GPS data. This data is transmitted to a second mobile device that is capable of handling the same technology. In other words, a Bluetooth GPS receiver can send data to a PDA, provided that PDA is also equipped with built-in Bluetooth capabilities.

Of course, this combination of devices offers many advantages to modern travelers. As an alternative to cumbersome USB wires or bulky CompactFlash, Bluetooth technology provides several benefits:

Flexible Freedom

It's not always best to have your PDA and your GPS receiver located in the same position. Without wires to bind the devices, you can position your PDA and GPS separately in the most strategic locations, to provide the best results. For example, if you are using your GPS while driving, you can position the Bluetooth GPS receiver in a spot where it has a clear view of the sky, while mounting the PDA to your dashboard where you have a clear view of the screen. There are no wires to get in the way of your vision, or hamper your driving in any way.

CompactFlash Slot Space

Using a Bluetooth GPS with a PDA means that there is no use for a CompactFlash. The empty CompactFlash slot can then be used as a storage space for maps or software to optimize the navigation of your GPS.

Bluetooth GPS manufacturers will offer further benefits with their equipment. For example, many Bluetooth GPS receivers feature a POI (points of interest) database, pre-stored maps and route re-calculation function.

Shop around to learn as much as you can, and compare models to find the one that suits you best. Your GPS will likely soon become a trusted travel companion.

Article Source: http://www.articlemap.com

Writer Rainer Cassell is a regular columnist for various of today's best web zines, on tech gadgets and product to sell topics.
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