What is GPS ?

GPS, or the Global Positioning System, is a satellite navigation system that provides positioning and clock time to the terrestrial user. Essentially, the GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away the satellite is. Now, with distance measurements from a few more satellites, the receiver can determine the user’s position and display it on the unit’s electronic map. Today’s GPS receivers are extremely accurate, thanks to their parallel multi-channel design. It can be used as a hand-held, in a boat, or can be mounted under the windscreen of a car, or within the panel of a boat control station for practical route guidance. It can be hooked up to a 12volt supply. GPS is one of the most fantastic utilities ever devised by man.