The Different Types of GPS Devices - Finding Your Way in the World

June 7, 2010 - PRLog -- The ability to know where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there was once best found by using a paper map. If you were traveling in your car then there is a good chance you used either an atlas or one of those big tri-folded maps which really weren't much help while trying to drive. Thankfully navigating the world today is easier thanks to the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the different types of GPS devices that use it.

If you are wondering how these GPS devices do what they do then read on. The Global Positioning System was created and implemented by the United States Department of Defense when it launched its first GPS satellite back in 1978. Today there are 24 satellites in the GPS network that are the cornerstone of the whole system.

There are several different types of GPS devices that are designed to take advantage of this constellation of satellites. GPS mapping devices are used to collect points and any data attached to those points for mapping purposes. In fact these devices have been used for years to collect the data that creates the maps and mapping features used by other GPS navigating systems.

Which brings us to the most popular consumer GPS device; the GPS navigating system. The most familiar of these is the in-car GPS unit that shows you map of where you are going and tells you through voice commands how to get there. These GPS devices are either mounted in the cars dash or are portable and can be moved between vehicles. Some navigational units offer a feature whereby you can find restaurants, shopping, hospitals, and accommodations regardless of where you are; this can be incredibly useful when hunting services in a town with which you are unfamiliar.

The smaller versions of these navigational units are handheld devices that can be used by backpackers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts. These types of GPS units will keep track of where you are, leave a breadcrumb trail of where you've been, and will guide you to where you want to go. Many of these units also feature built in cameras and voice recorders, letting you keep a record of your journeys.

The last device we'll discuss is a GPS tracking device. Much like in the movies these devices use the GPS satellite system to track objects to which they are attached.

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