GPS and PDA Bring TLC to Your Travels

Traveling used to mean packing along detailed and illegible maps and compasses of questionable reliability. Given the number of times travelers had to stop and pull over to check a map, it's a wonder that we ever traveled at all! These days, modern travelers can easily find their way with a small hand held wonder called a GPS receiver.

The need for traditional maps and navigational devices has virtually disappeared since GPS devices hit the market. Now, travelers can simply refer to the GPS screen to access clear direction on where they need to go.

GPS receivers are electronic devices that can calculate your precise location on earth, by decoding signals received from satellites in outer space. Additional electronic products and software can then aid the GPS in pinpointing your exact location on a map. It's incredible technology for a small gadget with a relatively small price tag.

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 widely known as the standard for modern wireless communication. This system allows two electronic devices, such as a GPS and PDA, to send and receive signals, transfer data and "communicate" with each other. The information is shared without wires.

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

Without wires to tie them down, you are free to position your GPS receiver and PDA device where it's most convenient for you. Many travelers choose to place the GPS on the dashboard, allowing it to maintain a clear connection with satellites in the sky. The PDA is best mounted right in front of the driver, where he or she can clearly see the directions on the screen. With Bluetooth technology there are no wires to limit the convenience or obstruct your view of the screen.

Added Storage

If you are using Bluetooth technology to transmit data, you'll have no need to plug in a CompactFlash card. The empty CF slot, therefore, can be used as a storage space for software or maps to further optimize the results of your GPS.

Many travelers are able to get even greater benefits from their GPS receivers. Some units come with handy companion features like pre-stored maps, route re-calculation (perfect in the case of road detours) and POI (points of interest) databases that show you popular tourist attractions en route.

So, whether your travels are taking you to the next neighborhood or another country, don't leave home without your GPS and PDA bundled with Bluetooth technology.

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Writer Rainer Cassell is happiest writing articles for a variety of popular web zines, on tech gadgets and product to sell topics.
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