by articlenetwork on May 7, 2009
Since the advent of GPS systems, the cost of production has decreased to the consumer so much that it’s now possible to incorporate the technology into systems one would never have though of a few years ago. Examples are GPS Running Watches, and dog tracking collars, gps wrist watch to name a few.
In order to determine if some of these commercially available units are for you, it’s likely wise to understand a little of the history & workings of present GPS systems.
Global Positioning System satellites transmit signals to equipment on the ground. GPS receivers passively receive satellite signals; they do not transmit. GPS receivers require an unobstructed view of the sky, so they are used only outdoors and they often do not perform well within forested areas or near tall buildings. GPS operations depend on a very accurate time reference, which is provided by atomic clocks at the U.S. Naval Observatory. Each GPS satellite has atomic clocks on board.
Each GPS satellite transmits data that indicates its location and the current time. All GPS satellites synchronize operations so that these repeating signals are transmitted at the same instant. The signals, moving at the speed of light, arrive at a GPS receiver at somewhat different times because some satellites are farther away than others. The distance to the GPS satellites can be determined by estimating the amount of time it takes for their signals to reach the receiver. When the receiver estimates the distance to at least four GPS satellites, it can calculate its position in three dimensions.
There are at least 24 operational GPS satellites at all times. The satellites, operated by the U.S. Air Force, orbit with a period of 12 hours. Ground stations are used to precisely track each satellite's orbit.
Determining Position
A GPS receiver "knows" the location of the satellites, because that information is included in satellite transmissions. By estimating how far away a satellite is, the receiver also "knows" it is located on the surface of an imaginary sphere centered at the satellite. It then determines the sizes of several spheres, one for each satellite. The receiver is located where these spheres intersect.
GPS Accuracy
The accuracy of a position determined with GPS depends on the type of receiver. Most hand-held GPS units have about 10-20 meter accuracy. Other types of receivers use a method called Differential GPS (DGPS) to obtain much higher accuracy. DGPS requires an additional receiver fixed at a well known location nearby. Observations made by the stationary receiver are used to correct positions recorded by the roving units, producing an accuracy greater than 1 meter.
When the system was created, timing errors were inserted into GPS transmissions to limit the accuracy of non-military GPS receivers to about 100 meters. This part of GPS operations, called Selective Availability, was eliminated in May 2000.
by articlenetwork on May 7, 2009
Zumo 660
With GPS systems becoming so popular Garmin and TomTom created specifically designed GPS systems for motorcycles as well. Garmin has its Zumo line which offers a couple different styles and features and TomTom has its main system called the Rider 2. Both systems offer vibration resistance, glove friendly touch screens, a rugged design to handle the outdoor elements, waterproof, and helmet connection to heat the directions.Both brands of GPS systems have pleased their customers. However, Garmin has created another Zumo motorcycle GPS unit called the Zumo 660 and they have definitely outdone themselves and TomTom with this exciting new product.
Garmin states that with the Zumo 660 will allow you to "take a ride on a new route and explore the open road…whether you’re on a weekday ride just across town or a weeklong trip to an annual rally with friends, the Zumo 660 is ready to show you the way." Let’s see why this statement rings true.
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The Zumo 660 has a color touchscreen that is 4.3" wide and motorcycle glove friendly. The screen is built to resist glare from the sun so that you can easily read the screen during the day as well as night. The case is still as rugged and waterproof as before also resisting fuel sprays and sun damage.
With preloaded maps you are ready to go once you receive the unit. Your point of interest options are those of any typical GPS but you can view your POI's and surroundings in a 3D building view with a lane assist so you can really visualize the area you are driving through, Which would definitely be helpful in downtown cities with high and compact buildings.The system includes a digital fuel gauge to give the rider an exact measure of how much gas is in the tank.
The Zumo 660 is bluetooth compatabile so you can communicate with friends. With this bluetooth compatibility you can also call POI’s to check hours, make reservations, or get other answers before stopping at the location.
The Zumo 660 includes an MP3 player for both music and audiobooks for those that are traveling long distances. The player partnered with the bluetooth technology allows you to enjoy the music or book clearly in your headset. The Zumo 660 also has a picture viewer for taking pictures along the way.
Also, before going on a long haul ride or back woods ride you can plan your trip on your computer.Create custom routes on your computer and transfer them to your Zumo 660 when ready. You can easily share your routes with friends with the micro SD memory card, which can store numerous routes.Garmin also offers the Zumo Connect, an online community, as a resource for motorcyclists to get more information on motorcycle news.
The Zumo 660, however, is not limited to the motorcycle and allows versatility for those that need a GPS system for their motorcycle and their automobile.With the Zumo 660 comes a carrying case, power cable, universal motorcycle mount, and vehicle mount.
Allowing you to have one great GPS system for both motorcycle and automobile use.
Get your Zumo 660 today and start planning your next ride!
Zumo 660 Motorcycle GPS
Leanne Brown
