Archive for August, 2009

Homing pigeons are the original sat-navs!

Tuesday, August 11th, 2009

SNN0517A_124638aIt has been an aged-old mystery why pigeons always find their way home. Even if at times they head off to the wrong directions at the start of the flight, they still manage to return to where they took off, puzzling cultures and scientists all over the world for a very long time.
Researchers at the University of Auckland recently announced that the mystery has now been solved, saying homing pigeons follows magnetic fields around the earth for routes of their flight, and doing the same to find their way home.
Pushing further that the homing pigeons are probably the first satellite navigators, the Auckland scientists said the pigeons have a unique global positioning technology built into their system. The results of the research further state that such ability of the homing pigeons is like an orientation of map-and-compass where a pigeon first figure out its surrounding then fly off and find guide to take themselves home.
Furthermore, it has been published that homing pigeons’ beaks have magnetic particles that act like a compass, providing the birds with an accurate sense of direction. Not only that, the beak reacts to the earth’s external magnetic fields with such high sensitivity and specific manner so they always get the locations right.
Another mystery the researchers have answers for is the question of pigeons flying off in the wrong directions. It showed that the birds are doing this not as a random act but as a helpful method of knowing the magnetic fields and its contour lines,
The researchers also surmise that such proven theory is not limited to homing pigeons alone, but most likely with other birds and some animals which are influenced by the magnetic fields of our planet.

Find out more about the featured article from these resources:
Telegraph
sciencecentric.com

TomTom XL V3 GB

Monday, August 10th, 2009

tomtom-xl-v2-gbTomTom has become one of the leading manufacturers in the GPS (Global Positioning System) market over the past few years. The popular TomTom XL V3 GB is a must have gadget for anyone in the Great Britain area. Contained within this product is a very appealing design that is ideal for anyone in need of accurate directions while on the go. The large 3.5” TFT colour LCD touchscreen is ideal for driving conditions as it allows you to stay focused on the road while receiving directions or updates at the same time. The portability is very nice as you have the ability to attach it in your vehicle, bicycle, or even carry it when traveling by foot.

Nearly all TomTom XL V3 GB reviews people have left regarding the product have been quite positive. A major plus when compared to other devices is the ease of installation. You can enjoy all of the amazing features within seconds after opening the box. There are no additional downloads or confusing software to deal with as the maps are already preloaded for you onto a memory card. In addition to the accurate directions you will have, users will now be informed of any weather reports, real-time traffic conditions, and the all new Buddies feature. This can be a major help when traveling on extended road trips and you are forced to take a detour. You can easily change the route and continue on your way without a worry of becoming lost. Another great feature is that you have the ability to update your TomTom with new maps, planned routes and even videos of certain routes so you can be sure you turned right before the ‘red building’ for example.

The TomTom XL V3 GB is the ideal product for anyone in the Great Britain area as you can get on the road with it within minutes of receiving it. It’s simple design and amazing features are what makes this GPS device a must have.

Out now! A monitor that could detect GPS interferences and jams

Monday, August 10th, 2009

chronosChronos Technology recently introduced the handheld gadget in the UK to help GPS users detect recurring and heavy GPS satellite power, and even GPS signal and interference on the satellite navigation L1 channel. Called the CTL 3500 GPS Interference Monitor, the device has the capability to point out both deliberate and accidental interferences that jams GPS signals.

The Lydbrook based Chronos Technology also announced that intentional electronic warfare attacks could be indicated in the CTL 3500 gadget. With its filtering and detection technology systems, the device could also detect accidental obstruction and calculated meddling to GPS sensor signals.

Relatively cheaper and no doubt handy, this battery operated device employs precise and advanced low noise signal amplification with SAW filters and logarithmic detection. With this, unwanted signals like waveform or modulation scheme, the filtering and detection techniques could monitor any jams within the scope of the GPS L1 band. The CTL 3500 GPS Interference Monitor also has the capability to indicate levels on the cadenced vibrator and the 5 LEDs.

The gadget could be fully operational and function as support for engineers that will conduct checking of GPS antenna installations. It can also test installations of building rooftops for interference from other sources and the nearby GPS antennas, as well as classify whether GPS jams are being accidentally rebroadcasted from substandard, corroded cable or dysfunctional connector or antenna banding.

This good news from Chronos Technology Limited came at a time where there had been loads of feedback regarding the need to install monitors for GPS jams and interferences, regardless of the nature of such obstruction in signals, consistent with their production of GNSS components and accessories for applications such as positioning, navigation and communications industries, the British company launched this product recently, and aims for the military and the large public to employ its advantages.

Chronos remain the top specialist provider and system integrator of various technical solutions for synchronization, time of day and remote monitoring applications.
You can find out more about Chronos Technology Ltd. at mae.pennnet.com

To learn more about other Chronos products, click here. optoiq.com

Snooper S290MEU – Smart Navigation System

Sunday, August 9th, 2009

720733If in case you feel that you need to enjoy all of the benefits of a Satellite Navigation software without actually having to buy another hardware device then the best option for is to buy the Snooper S 290 MEU. You even have the ability to add the gps software to your mobile phone!

Equipped with multiple features through its software makes the S290MEU easily compatible with a number of other devices including the smart phone of present time like iPhones and PDA’s that are making use of the GPS connectivity. It is also compatible with a number of devices such as the Win mobile version 5.0 and 6.0 OS. The new and improved Snooper S290MEU GPS installation process is a breeze. Also included is the an SD card that allows you to upload new data or updates from your computer or mobile phone. Map data of the entire United Kingdom is already functional via the internal memory. Many Snooper S290MEU GPS reviews claim the data is extremely precise.

The navigational device is very much capable to display vivid 2D and 3D Navteg Map images of the UK along with displaying the maps of Ireland so that you are always sure that you are driving on the right track. In case you are new to the country and happen to take a wrong turn while on your journey, the Snooper S290MEU GPS automatically helps you return to the correct route. The equipment also lets you choose between the safest, fastest and shortest routes to your preferred destination so that you may never have to pay a toll or deal with rough traffic.

If you’re needing to find a new destination all you have to do is enter the street name, city, town, postal code or zip and follow turn-by-turn voice directions. The new Snooper S290MEU GPS is a device that helps you drive safely to your preferred destination and responsibly with its best award winning camera speed detection technology. You can trust the system as the database is cut above all other system and is also constantly updated by the professionals regularly. While you’re driving the device updates you on any upcoming cameras to avoid speeding fines. You also have access to a number of other points of interest like the hotels, bars, restaurants, and other places of public interest. Anyone in need of a fully functional moder gps device than the Snooper S290MEU has the appeal and reliability to trust

Increasing GPS thefts alarms US citizens and authorities

Sunday, August 9th, 2009

GPS-TheftMore and more GPS users wake up and find their car window smashed. Housewives doing groceries or couples out for a weekend movie get back to their vehicle and find themselves in panic. Teenagers having enough of the mall trip get back to their cars and start calling their parents. They all have one experience in common – they find the GPS satellite navigation devices stolen from their vehicles.
Today, GPS theft reports continue to soar, despite consistent efforts of the local law enforcers and sufficient warnings from authorities. Although the satnavs aren’t perceived as those high-end luxury items like they used to be ten years ago, it doesn’t deter the thieves from stealing them from cars just the same. In fact, the GPS are probably the top-most hot item to snatch from the parked cars. These devices that come with helpful interactive maps and real-time satellite navigation continue to be attractive to thieves all over America and some parts of Canada.
The most targeted area by these unscrupulous thieves are places with huge numbers of parked cars such as a sports arena, malls, condo complexes and movie theaters. The number of reports regarding stolen satnavs is so huge that Connecticut police consider GPS thefts a national problem.
Meanwhile, the manufacturers of these hot-items are discouraged over the wave of petty crimes. GPS companies have reiterated that they have modified the devices smaller and more portable so they will not be left in cars and the glove compartments for thieves to feast on.
Local police enforcements have doubled their campaigns to protect GPS users from thieves, saying it’s always wise to remove GPS and other valuables from plain sight, and to always take your satnavs with you or place them in more secure areas of the car. Authorities have also encouraged the public to invest in an anti-theft device and never forget to keep car doors locked.
More details and related information could be found at montrealgazette.com
And more at canada.com

Magellan Maestro 4700 sat-nav — out now!

Sunday, August 9th, 2009

magellan-maestro-4700Yes, it’s finally out, unveiled, launched. Whatever you call the event when a new blast of a product is out in the market, it is the Magellan Maestro 4700 –  the only sat-nav that crams in all the features a driver needs. Cool, sleek and a must-have!

Unlike the unpredictable climb of petrol prices and tom-tom live sat-nav, this 4.7 inch Magellan Maestro 4700 comes even better with no subscription charges! You’re saved the monthly hassles and you get plenty of perks as well. With Magellan Maestro 4700, you can Bluetooth while you tootle and know the traffic hotspots at any time of the day.

This sat-nav device has 3D maps very similar to iPhone graphics quality, and there’s the Find Your Car mode onboard that helps you remember where your car is parked in a bustling shopping center carplex.

This latest Magellan GPS model comes in with updated aesthetic slim profile, wide format and color-touch screen, the accessible features any driver wants from their sat-nav. You can also talk hands-free to the Maestro 4700 with its voice command feature. This gadget can talk back with its text-to-text capability.

For its predictive traffic features, Maestro 4700 works with IQ routes similar to the TomTom and comes preloaded with TourBook guide with detailed information about destinations. When checking a destination, Maestro 4700 displays both results from POI and the TourGuide book in separate tabs.

Its other features include an updated interface, larger fonts, highly creative 3D maps to assist drivers in navigation, and various modes that remembers the location of your parking.

The Magellan Maestro 4700 is priced at almost $300 with a mountable cradle, 12v charging system, and other add on gadgets. No details have been released about any plans for European release.

Find out more about the featured article from these resources:

Mirror

CNET.com

En-route with the Snooper INDAGO UK

Saturday, August 8th, 2009

snooper_indago_euro_plusThe very first impression that you may have about the Snooper INDAGO is that the product is well designed. The equipment is simply dominated by the presence of 3.5inch TFT screen along which feels very well built. The unit is equipped with a flat base so that it may rest on the dash comfortably. While setting up the Snooper INDAGO from its resting case and get it to set up in your car or vehicle may be a very simple task. You have to keep in mind that the mounting cradle that is provided includes a suction mount to attach firmly to your windshield. An internal rechargeable battery system is included that can be charged via car adapter. The initial set-up of the Snooper INDAGO UK is relatively simple which takes no longer than a few minutes. In order to enter a new destination simply use the touchscreen keyboard and the street address and postal code. You will have the choice between fastest or quickest route as well as an option to avoid any tolls.

With the pre-loaded maps you can be sure that you are receiving the most accurate routes that will bring you to your destination without any worries. The map interface can be viewed in both 2D and 3D to provide a detailed look at your route. Several Snooper INDAGO UK reviews claim that the speed camera detection function has saved them hundreds of dollars in avoided speeding fines. You are automatically notified when an upcoming camera is ahead which gives you time to decelerate. During dark conditions the screen is automatically put in night mode to display a more vivid picture. Your speed is tracked and updated within the Snooper INDAGO to keep you in sync with your route results. Whether you are in need of a fully functional gps device or something you can count on while on vacations, the Snooper INDAGO would be a great choice.

GPS system could start breaking down in 2010

Saturday, August 8th, 2009

SPAC_Satellite_GPS_IIIA_Concept_lgThe United States government stated warnings that the satellite navigation systems could start going down next year, an issue which caused alarm to many motorists and other civilians whose daily drives are dependent on the technology.
The modern and hi-tech dependency of many civilians and a large chunk of the US defense units could be massively affected in the event the system starts breaking down. Satellite navigation devices have been built-in into cars and mobile phones, two daily necessities in the American life.
The Navstar GPS is reportedly over the budget by close to $882 million and has suffered major development setbacks, including a two year delay in the first replacement satellite.
According to reports, mismanagement and under-investment in two-decade old Navstar GPS are the major reasons for the seen breakdown next year. Navstar GPS, the US satellite system by the US Airforce, has since deteriorated and it could not be guaranteed if the Air Force can get a new satellite to prevent service interruption.
The quality of the global positioning system (GPS) has been concerning US government officials at present. In such eventuality, regular blackouts and failures, and rendering inaccurate directions and recurring lack of connection would be experienced. For military purposes, the GPS is a major contributor for GPS mapping, in tracking hostile targets and reconnaissance activities. Lack of consistent and reliable GPS services could lead to mishaps in all military operations worldwide.
For civilians, location applications on their mobile handsets would also be rendered difficult to use, particularly the navigational features on the iPhones and other smartphones heavily dependent on GPS.
As it remains uncertain if the US Air Force would be able to acquire new satellites in time, these adverse effects of the Navstar are deemed getting closer by the day.
Still, many remain hopeful that the US government would not let the system get to that stage of breakdown as it’s highly useful to both the military and the public.
More related issues could be found at autospies.com
. Additional information is also available at guardian.co.uk

Puffins get sat-navs to determine population decline

Saturday, August 8th, 2009

fluffin puffinWhat could be more alarming than seeing over 35,000 drop of the Puffins’ numbers in just five years! Now with the latest satellite navigation technology, these birds from the Isle of May and Farne Islands off the Northumberland Coast can now render information regarding their decrease.
Very little has been known about the birds’ reaction to climate change, pollution controls and how their natural cycle of life. But with the new sat-nav systems to be fitted to around 30 puffins, any retrieved information from the GPS data on the birds should give many clues and answers. The tags are similar to tom-tom devices for vehicles and it stores back-data and then retrieves the tag.
Apart from the usual GPS tags, the birds will also be fitted with time-depth recorders for their diving patterns and reactions to sea temperatures. Scientists are also hoping to get a view of the puffins’ feeding grounds and other areas where they are exposed to get any indication of its effect on the untimely deaths of the birds. The sat-nav will also collect data particularly on the sand eels which are the puffins’ main food source, and how the eels’ migration to the cooler waters has been a huge detriment to the new diet of the birds. Also, the system will look into why the puffins are not returning to the islands for breeding and to nest, and if indeed their winter activities are largely to question about their fast disappearance.
The sat-nav will cover all aspects of how puffins float, swim and dive for food, and return to land during their nesting season, and data retrieved will be processed at the Newcastle University. Scientists are hoping they will soon have the answers and provide the public with the latest developments of the Puffins population decline.
Find out more about the featured article from these resources:
Telegraph

Teletext

Safe traveling with the Road Angel Professional

Friday, August 7th, 2009

ra-professional2The new Road Angel Professional GPS is one of the latest devices that includes a hand held remote to allow anyone in the vehicle to control the device. The appealing design Road Angel has created can instantly bring a new feeling towards your driving perspective.

So, why should you ever choose the Road Angel Professional? There are a number of reasons but a main factor is the visual and spoken directions along with alerts for any upcoming speed camera detectors. The new equipment has a very sleek design and is accompanied with a remote control so it may help you avoid leaning over the dash dangerously while driving. It has a full color screen display which can also be customized according to your taste or likes.

The device is also provided with an automatic power function facility so that in case you forget to switch off the equipment it shuts off itself. The equipment also has an on board laser detection system which is considered one of the main features. The Road Angel Professional GPS is equipped with a bright 2.4 inch LCD TFT color display which provides you with the ability to customize it according to your taste.

The Road Angel Professional GPS is also equipped with a built in rechargeable battery support system and is also capable for providing a wireless back up for around eight hours. Also a popular note in many Road Angel Professional GPS reviews is the power off system in case you forget to turn the device off upon exiting. The equipment alerts the users to – fixed safety cameras, speed accident blackspot alert, mobile safety camera locations, railway crossings, school zones, and also congestion zones. Map data is updated automatically when any new routes or roads are available.