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How accurate is GPS?
Today, GPS receivers have parallel multi-channel designs which allow them
to be extremely accurate. On some occasions, certain Atmospheric factors and
other sources or error can affect the accuracy of a GPS receiver. However,
manufacturers' of GPS equipment are always striving to make today's technology
the absolute best that it can be. On average, most receivers are accurate
to within 15 meters. Newer receivers with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System)
capability can increase accuracy to an average of 3 meters. Most manufacturers'
offer a technical data sheet which features the accuracy of their systems.
What is GPS Signal Information?
GPS signal information is the detailed data which is transmitted from the
satellite to the GPS receiver via line of sight. The satellites transmit this
information on 2 low power radio signals known as L1 and L2. The L1 frequency
of 1575.42 MHZ in the UHF band has been designated for civilian use.
The GPS signal information is split up into 3 categories:
- Pseudorandon Code - An ID code which identifies which of the 24 satellites
is transmitting the data.
- Ephemeries Data - Important information about the status of the satellite,
current date and time.
- Almanac Data - This provides detailed information for each of the 24 satellites
such as current location and orbital information for any time throughout
the day.
Can I use GPS?
Though originally designed for military operations, GPS has found it's way
into the civilian population more then ever before. Since GPS is so easy to
use and offers such detailed information, it is in high demand for everyday
use. Here are just a few examples of when the information that a GPS receiver
supplies could be helpful to you:
Automobile Travel
Boating
Aviation
Land Surveying
Hiking
Camping
Hunting
Biking
Skiing
Snowmobiling
Whether you need to know where you are, where you are going or how fast you'll
get there...GPS can work for you!
Where do I get a GPS receiver?
There are many types and manufacturers of GPS receivers and accessories.
We offer a large selection of Automotive GPS, Hand-held GPS, Laptop GPS and
PDA GPS receivers. You can shop our on-line catalog by clicking any of the
links on the left of your screen. |
