Homeless sex offenders may have to wear GPS devices

Homeless sex offenders may have to wear GPS devices 

Columbus -- Homeless sex offenders would be required to wear global positioning devices to track their whereabouts, under legislation being considered in the Ohio House.
Rep. Clayton Luckie, a Democrat from the Dayton area, offered House Bill 369 after two women in his district were attacked by the same homeless sex offender.

"There are predators out there that prey on women and children in our society, putting not just the public but our families in danger," Luckie told members of the House's Criminal Justice Committee Dec. 9. "... Are there better ways to track and monitor people convicted of major sexual crimes but do not have a permanent address? I believe there is a better way."
Tier III sex offenders -- category includes those guilty of rape and crimes against children -- already are required to register their addresses with law enforcement every 90 days.
But of the 5,586 sex offenders currently being monitored by the state, close to 500 are homeless, Luckie said.

Under his bill, those who do not have home addresses would be required to be monitored via a GPS device until they have a fixed residence.
"I believe this law is necessary to monitor those who are deemed most dangerous," Luckie said. "No one can foresee who will commit a crime and when they will do it.
"However, we can take steps to help deter criminal behavior."

Mobile outlets with GPS to deliver veggies in Gurgaon

Mobile outlets with GPS to deliver veggies in Gurgaon

Come January 14 and residents in posh colonies of Gurgaon will find an easy and smart way to buy vegetables, fruits and dairy products as `fresh green on wheels' will soon be available at their doorsteps. Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) has given green signal to a private company to launch 150 mobile retail outlets in the city and has waived trade license fees for these kiosks.

According to senior MCG officials, the first 30 state-of-the-art outlets by the company Adarsh ThoughtWorks will be launched in upmarket areas like DLF city and Sushant Lok in January.

The outlets will be equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) devices and will be run by a central control room in Jaipur. Senior officials of the firm claimed these outlets will be eco-friendly and will use alternate technology to preserve vegetables and fruits. For preserving the stock, a green technology incubated by the National Innovation Foundation of India for temperature control will be used.

Interestingly, the owners of these retail mobile kiosks will be women from the economically challenged urban communities. "We have joined hands with 16 NGOs which will help us pick women self-help groups. These women will be given training to operate real time software and hardware platforms attached to the mobile kiosks. They will also be provided micro home loans, insurance and education for their children,'' said Aditya Bhardwaj, managing director of the company.

In addition to selling fresh greens and dairy products, the pushcarts will also double up as `Mobile Citizen Service Centres' where citizens can submit and collect various forms and documents related to the civic body, Aditya added.

"With 150 in Gurgaon and 1500 in Delhi and NCR, we plan to launch over 25,000 mobile kiosks in 25 cities in a span of one year. The project will provide self-employment to 9,000 micro-entrepreneurs,'' Aditya said.

Officials said the customers will be able to order a large number of commodities sourced from rural economic zone developed by the firm through a call centre for home delivery within minutes. The rates of all the commodities will be fixed.

Meanwhile, the facility has generated interest among residents even before its launch. Said Homemaker Mala Verma, "I am eagerly waiting for the outlets to be launched. I am happy I will not need to stock vegetables anymore and get them fresh at my doorstep everyday. This will save my time and money without even compromising on quality.''

Driver In Davies Crash Incident Reportedly Had Been Drinking 

Washington, D.C. (AHN) - An unidentified female driver told police that she was drinking alcohol before a fatal car crash Oct. 13 that injured US national team's Charlie Davies and killed 22-year-old Ashley Roberta.

According to media reports, court papers were filed Thursday detailing Davies injuries. The forward suffered a broken right leg and sustained a bladder injury.
The woman informed police that she was adjusting her GPS when Roberta screamed "Watch out!" The driver then swerved right and smashed into a guard rail that sliced the car in two.
Authorities estimated that the car was traveling well over the 40 mph speed limit. The report indicated that police did smell alcohol on the woman's breath after the incident.
US Park Police are seeking judicial permission to decide the speed of the car and the specific route taken. If access is granted, the investigators will analyze the airbag sensor and the GPS.

Davies began rehabilitation November after several operations in the hopes of participating in the 2010 World Cup at South Africa.

The US team will take the pitch June 12 against England.

Read more: www.allheadlinenews.com

Hitting the road with iPhone GPS apps: A holiday buyers guide

We're about to hit the big holiday travel peak, and it's a great time to survey what we've seen this year for iPhone GPS apps. GPS navigation by satellite has been around a long time, but it's never been this inexpensive or desirable. There's an explosion of choices, with competitive features and falling prices. For many of our readers, facing long trips to see family and friends, getting the right GPS app is a priority.

A few words about this guide: I haven't seen or tested everything on the market, and the choices are constantly changing and updating. I've done my best to keep up and get some time on the road with each of the apps listed here. If I haven't talked about your favorite app, it's not because I don't like it, but because I can't vouch for it.

Like all of you, I have some criteria by which I judge a GPS app. My list contains the things I think are really, really, important. Your list could be different. Such is life.

Read on for my (long) list of must-haves, and for the rundown of the GPS apps themselves.Here's my criteria:

• Good graphics and a clear GUI. I want to be able to figure out how things work without a lot of effort. I don't expect to spend a lot of time looking at the screen, but when I do I don't want it to be littered with useless information.
• Good sound. I don't want to have to struggle to hear what is being said, and I don't want to guess what directions I just got.
• GPS accuracy. Of course. I want the GPS to know where I am. On a highway, I don't want to be depicted on a side road. Most of the GPS accuracy comes down to the electronics on the iPhone, but smart software can enhance the accuracy of my position.
• Updated Maps. In my testing, I found several units that didn't have streets I was driving on, or could not find addresses in neighborhoods that were a decade old. There isn't any good way to find out how new the map data is, but there are plenty of reviews on the iTunes store that will help you gauge this. Steer clear of any app that has a lot of people complaining about out-of-date data.
• Updated Points of Interest. Same as above. How current are the locations and phone numbers of restaurants, hospitals, shops? Is the POI list static or is there a web component that keeps it up to date? I prefer a frequently updated POI list. If it's on the phone only, and something you downloaded as part of the app, it is both smaller and less up-to-date than the online options.
• Where are the maps? Maps may be stored on your phone, or delivered on-demand via the 3G network. I prefer them to be on the phone, because cellular reception may not be perfect. In the U.S., that means AT&T. For the rest of the world there are providers with great coverage, and some with poor coverage. If you opt for a GPS app that depends on the network for maps, you'd better have good cellular service or you'll be looking at a blank map.
• Text-to-speech. I really don't want to spend time looking at the display. I want the GPS to tell me to turn left on Elm Street, not 'turn left ahead'. That could be very confusing.
• Traffic information. It's no good following a route that is backed up three hours because of an accident. I want my GPS to alert me, and re-route me if at all possible.
• Choices about route calculation. I want options for fastest, shortest, and less congested routes. I want to be able to avoid toll roads, freeways or ferries. I want to be driving with this app, not having the app drive me.
• Useful on-screen information. I want to know how long till I get there, based on my speed, not a guess. I want to know what time I will arrive, and I'd like to know the distance to my destination and to my next turn.
• Address Book integration. I really don't want to type in destinations if they are already sitting on my phone.
• iPod integration. Not a big deal for me, but it is for many. Can you access your iTunes library without leaving the app?
• More than just a driving mode. The iPhone is small and portable. Pedestrian directions are really nice to have.
• Less important but nice: auto night display, meaning the display dims or changes colors so it is easier to see at night and less distracting. Speed limit information; can the app warn you if your are speeding? To know that, its database has to know the posted speed for major roads. I also like landscape mode, which is, I think, a nicer way to view the maps.

OK. Now let's look at the contenders... all prices quoted are those from the US App Store.

One of the first out of the gate was the ATandT Navigator app [iTunes link]. It's a monthly subscription at $9.99, with discounts for multi-month agreements. The maps are clear, the POI database is up to date. This app is cloud based, and that means if you lose AT&T signal, you're hosed. The app has recently had an update with improved iTunes integration. The app does text to speech, has an attractive GUI, and has a nice feature to help you find cheap gas. It includes real-time traffic, and warns you of congestion ahead. The downsides are the already mentioned dependence on a cellular signal. It also is way too chatty for my taste, and over warns you of upcoming turns. I did not find the voice pleasant, as it seemed distorted on the iPhone speaker. I'd blame that on the iPhone, except several other products don't have the problem. As this is subscription based, it just keeps costing. At $70 a year, you could buy the Navigon, Magellan or TomTom app and be ahead of the game. Purchasers who rated this app at the iTunes store generally are not happy.

Ndrive United States. This is a low cost $32.99 app [iTunes link] with built in maps, and a pretty fair POI database. The developers promised text to speech, but as of this writing, it's a no-show. In my review i said that voice instructions came a bit late. I liked the 3D rendering of downtown buildings. As prices of the more popular GPS apps drop, Ndrive is not as compelling as it was, but I think it is worth a look.

Another low cost option is CoPilot Live North America. At $20 (on sale now) [iTunes Link] It includes text to speech, and works well. In my reviewI noted that the maps were not particularly attractive, and were often out of date. You can add live traffic for another $20, which starts getting app up there in price. I'd consider this an entry level purchase for someone who isn't sure they want to spend a lot of GPS navigation. At $20 without traffic, it's a pretty low risk proposition.

TomTom. This app is offered in the U.S. and several other countries. It was an eagerly awaited app because of the reputation of the company. For US drivers there is a US/Canada version at $69.99 [iTunes link] and a $49.99 version [iTunes link] that deletes Canada (no offense, Canadians). It's on sale at this price until December 28. Out of the gate, this app was missing some desired features, like text to speech, but a recent update added that function. The graphics are clear and easy to understand. The GUI is responsive. All the data is on-board. There have been complaints the maps are not as up to date as some of its competitors. All in all, the TomTom app is full featured, and very competitive, especially at the $50 sale price.

Magellan Roadmate. Full featured, very nice GUI and easy to read screens. Has text to speech, 3D landmarks, lane assist, pedestrian mode, and a one-touch menu for getting to favorites. In my review I found the app easy to use and responsive. At $79.99 (on sale) [iTunes link] it's a bit pricey and I expect they will have to get a bit more aggressive because of the competition. I like everything about this app except the price and lack of real time traffic.

G-Map U.S. and Canada. At a sale price of $49.99 [iTunes link] it is in the middle of the pack in terms of cost, but in my experience it was buggy and a bit slow to react to turns. In my review I noted that the app had in fact been pulled from the app store for bugs. Several users, including me, have had trouble installing it. The developers have been quick to try and fix the issues that pop up, and they have added text to speech. If you don't need Canadian maps, the TomTom sale price is a better deal.

iGo Navigation. At $64.99 on sale, this is a bit high for an app with no text to speech. It does have lane assist, 3D landmarks, and details at intersections. In my reviewI noted that app froze up, which is a no-no. Without text to speech, it's a high price and not very competitive with the big names.

Navigon Mobile Navigator North America. In my view, this is the current top drawer app that I have used and extensively tested. It's on sale to January 11 for $59.99 [iTunes link], and it includes Canada, text to speech, and now Google live search to compliment the built-in POI data base. That's the best of both worlds in my view: the maps on board, plus the ability to find, call, and easily navigate to a destination. If you are out of cell tower range, the built in POI data is reasonably complete.

You can get up to date traffic data for larger cities for an additional one-time purchase of $24.99. I think the on screen graphics are best in class, and Navigon was the first to add text to speech. They have been very prompt at getting frequent updates released and have added valuable features. If you look at the iTunes ratings, it seems to have satisfied the most people. If I had to choose one GPS app for the iPhone, it would be the Navigon, no question. The company released the Google integration yesterday, and it had some server issues, but they got right on it and fixed it very quickly.

Against my list of desired features, the Navigon app hits them all. Google may or may not offer a free nav app for the iPhone at some point, but if you're planning a long holiday trip, you probably can't wait. The Navigon is not the most expensive, nor the cheapest of the apps that are out there. But I do think it is the best, with the Magellan and TomTom in a tie for second place.

So there you have it. I know there are some other apps I haven't tried, so they are absent here. Many of these apps run fine on an iPod touch, although you won't be able to use them for live navigation without a hardware assist (like the auxiliary GPS provided by the TomTom cradle). Check the iTunes links I've provided to get specifics on each model. I've tried to cover a variety of options and prices, and hopefully you'll find something that fits your needs and your budget. Happy Holidays and safe driving!

Nokia Symbian to get Free GPS Navigation Maps from SatGuide

Nokia Symbian to get Free GPS Navigation Maps from SatGuide

Now it is the time for Nokia users to reach their desired destination across India through GPS Navigation Software and Maps. Today SatNav Technologies, a pioneer in GPS navigation in India since 2005 has offered a free version of GPS Navigation software and Maps for Symbian OS phones by Nokia.

SatGuide Navigation maps are used highly by the branded companies such as HTC, HP, imate, ASUS, and ACER. By this launch it has become a delight for large base of Nokia users who will now be able to acces exclusive localized Indian maps and they have an option to choose from the application most suited to them.
SatGuide is an onboard solution, which allows users to avoid incurring heavy GPS subscription prices and suffer from poor GPRS connectivity which is still maturing in the country. SatGuide also offers partner’s maps for US, Canada & Europe which allow users to navigate across the globe using one single mobile device.
Plan Details:

• Nokia users can use it free for 10 times after that if they want to continue the free service or to upgrade it, an initial one-time payment of Rs 2138 has to be made.
• Once it is paid customers can use it lifelong without recurring charges or needing reinstallation.
• The FREE navigation software with maps of 412+ cities of India can be downloaded from www.satguide.in
• An incredible CASH BACK offers are provided for users when they download free version from SatNav site.
• Rs 1000 will be paid for customers (50% discount on the regular price), if they download the software within 30 days. But this offer is time bounded.

The SatGuide Mobile Navigation Software can be installed on most Symbian OS phones by Nokia and Samsung like N95, E66, 6110, N82, 6210, E57, 6220, N78, N96, N73 and Samsung i560, among others
This software will provide an access to detailed maps for 412+ Indian cities and over 16 lakh point of interests (POI’s). Since Nokia promotes its own maps and their dealers/distributors have not been as receptive to SatGuide as compared to the response of Windows phone distributors, Nokia users were being deprived of the high quality extensive maps from SatGuide and their excellent localized after sales service and support for the Indian market.

 credit: cellbharat.com

An App That Helps You Find Your Way Is a Great Find 

You many have noticed that GPS navigation units are deeply discounted this holiday season. The manufacturers and the stores know what customers are thinking: “Why do I need one if I can get the same technology, for a lot less money, on smartphones?”

Google's software can turn a smartphone running its Android 1.6, or later version, into a GPS unit that lets users see a wide area or a single street.

But now even the $10 monthly fee for those mobile phone apps doesn’t look like a great buy. Google began giving away navigation software that turns any smartphone running its Android 1.6 (or later) operating system into a GPS unit. That means that for now it works only on Verizon’s Droid, T-Mobile’s MyTouch 3G and G1.
But is the Google Maps Navigation app as good as Garmin or a TomTom device, and is it really cheaper? The Google app is a data hog, so you’ll need an unlimited data plan if you want to actually use the app. It’s also a battery hog, so you’ll need to pay extra for a car charger, not to mention a bracket for holding the phone.
As far as the quality of Google’s directions, during the week I tested it on the highways and back roads of Connecticut, I had only minor problems. Other users, who posted Android reviews through their smartphones, had bigger complaints — like the driver who was told by Google to turn into traffic on a one-way road.

If you spend a little time perusing the user comments of nearly any mobile navigation application, you’ll find similar complaints. That’s why it’s always smart to make good use of trial offers before committing. Since Google uses the same data for both its mobile navigation apps and its online maps service, you can basically test some online navigation searches for your home area to get a sense of how well the mobile app would do for you.
Since this is a free app, I was expecting less than I’ve seen on the paid navigation apps like AT&T Navigator, or VZ Navigator on Verizon.
But that wasn’t the case. The interface was easy enough to use, with the buttons in all the logical places. Equally easy, and pleasantly surprising, were the app’s extra features. After typing in my destination, for instance, I typed “coffee” and then “hotel” into the search box. It stuck icons onto my map for a Comfort Inn and several coffee shops — both chains and independent — along my route and nearby. If I tapped on the icon for one of them, it offered to navigate me to that spot, and it presented the phone number so that, in one tap, I could call.
I loved how, when I approached my destination, the app offered me street-level photography to help me find landmarks. With a flick of the screen, the image rotated 360 degrees.
Directions, again, weren’t perfect. On one leg of my trip, I left the highway one exit early to see how the app would reroute me. Rather than put me right back onto the entrance ramp no more than 50 yards from the exit, it steered me to a side street and a series of back roads that added probably 10 minutes to my trip.
Still, it got me there.

Google recently added a “Report a Problem” button in the app, and the company says it tries to fix those problems within a month. Users might be tempted just to scrap the software after a nightmare trip, but forgiving souls will most likely help the company improve it.
Google’s competitors in the navigation category point out that the service lacks some important features. TelMap, which builds the technology behind the MapQuest Navigator app, will offer directions even when you’ve lost your cell connection. MapQuest navigator works on a handful of smartphones, including the iPhone, the BlackBerry Curve on AT&T and the HTC Touch Diamond on Sprint.

The same is true for the Ovi Maps by Nokia application, which, incidentally, you’ll get with a free lifetime subscription if you buy the new Nokia 5800 Navigation Edition ($300 on NokiaUSA.com). Google downloads maps for your prospective route, so navigation can continue when you lose a connection. But if you become lost, it can’t find an alternate route until the connection resumes.

It’s an important consideration if you live in an area with spotty reception.
The VZ Navigator app and AT&T Navigator provide directions with a more pleasant voice than Google, which directed me in a tinny, robotic voice. Maybe Google was going for a retro effect, but in a market where apps typically feature realistic voices, this was a puzzler.
Another, more pleasant, puzzler was the complete lack of Google ads in the service. (The company has to pay for it somehow, right?) Carolyn Penner, a Google spokeswoman, would not say when the company would start running ads. Nor would she say when the turn-by-turn navigation feature would reach iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smartphones.
Users of iPhones, of course, never lack for navigation options, but many of them are either cheap and poorly rated or expensive and well reviewed. One good alternative is the Magellan RoadMate, from the company that specializes in hand-held GPS devices. It costs $80, but for that price you get perpetual software updates and a very refined service. The average user review at the Apple App store — four stars out of five — is significantly higher than those for competitors. After a few problem-free runs with the app myself, I’d offer only a slightly less generous rating.
Compared with a $10 monthly subscription, the RoadMate is a stellar deal. That is, at least until Google’s navigation app makes its way onto the iPhone.
Quick Calls
For people constantly misplacing their Bluetooth headset, the MoGo Talk for iPhone is a headset that attaches to an iPhone shell. The headset features a hinged boom and noise-canceling technology, and the shell doubles as a protective case ($129 MogoTalk.com). ... If you are comfortable handing your BlackBerry to your baby, Baby Go!, a free app from Zeebu Mobile, is made for children 2 years old and younger. As letter blocks move around the screen, a speaker pronounces the name of the letter. The app shuts off the child’s access to e-mail or the phone’s dial pad (zeebu.com).... Super Dreidel, a new $1 iPhone app, simulates the traditional Hanukkah game, and includes a full set of rules and a score tracker to cut down on arguments. In case you’re wondering, the game does not involve spinning your phone — swipe the screen and an animated dreidel twirls.

By BOB TEDESCHI , Nytimes.com

Google blocks hacked Navigation from international use

Google blocks hacked Navigation from international use

We were sort of hoping Google would turn a blind eye to the Android hackers who'd enabled Google Maps Navigation for use internationally, but it appears we're just hopelessly optimistic: El Goog's shut Navigation down outside the States. The changes are apparently "anticipated," and the hackers in charge are hard at work getting around it, so there's hope yet -- and at some point Mountain View is going to have to actually launch Navigation abroad for real, so this all just seems a bit petty.

By Nilay Patel

GPS Tracking Devices

Global Positioning System (GPS) have been around long enough for most people the basic idea of what they have to do. Originally developed by the government for military purposes, has developed the technology and the units now many GPS tracking devices used by consumers. The changes are GPS watches, GPS tracking control units, GPS-enabled mobile phones, vehicle tracking GPS, GPS navigation systems for boats, cars, aircraft and portable devices, among others.

Over the years, the accuracy of GPS devices has a better point (few meters) to be almost shocking. Fortunately for all of us, has removed the cost of the technology in-law, although the improvement of performance and reliability. Only a few years ago the idea of buying a GPS unit would have done well under $ 100, it seemed impossible, but today is a fact. By reducing costs, the popularity of these devices has exploded, almost literally.

The GPS-development has also meant a drastic reduction in the size of the units. This important result is the popularity to increase even more the level of prices. Who would want a device the size of a shoe box mounted on the dashboard of a car and tied to your arm? Of course, a GPS would never be seen without a reduction of practice. I still have a "handheld marine units" Since the early 1990, that laugh at my size when I see it, even though they often do not. Those days are thankfully long gone.
GPS tracking device to receive signals from satellites to determine the orbit of Earth around the user's latitude and longitude of a rule of a few meters. This makes it easier to get your position, speed, direction and distance to go, exact time and many other features to be pursued. For the serious running / walking enthusiasts with a GPS-Clock provides a meter pulse rate can also cut the pursuit of personal goals and monitor road.
The biggest challenge that could see the GPS location decision that is best for you, that's where we can help.

TomTom Refurbished GPS

TomTom is one of the big three automotive GPS manufacturers in the industry. Based out of the Netherlands, they offer a GPS well suited for European and international users alike. These GPS come with text-to speech capabilities in more than 30 different languages ranging from the standard English to Turkish to Thai depending on the make and model you decide to purchase. A TomTom GPS is great for those in America who travel to Europe regularly, speak natively in a language not supported by Magellan or Garmin, or by those who prefer the routing system of the TomTom.
On thing to be careful of when purchasing a TomTom is that they use a different mapping system than Magellan and Garmin. These two companies use NAVTEC maps while TomTom uses Tele Atlas maps. To be honest, Tele Atlas maps have shown themselves to be less complete on this side of the pacific than the maps on a Garmin or Magellan but TomTom has created some very good features to help make up for this shortcoming. MapShare is a TomTom application that lets user of these refurbished GPS devices make corrections to maps as they drive and then to share the changes with other TomTom users across the glove. User generated content is the future of mapping applications and it is good to see Tomtom take this step toward greater usability. Even if their maps are not as good today, in a few years Tele Atlas maps might be the best in the world.
Another benefit to the TomTom is that they offer a free map upgrade within 30 days of registering your refurbished GPS purchase. Other manufacturers might charge you a map upgrade fee when you go with their device. This means that the amount of money that you can save by buying a refurbished TomTom can be even greater than that which you can achieve with another manufacturer.
In the past, we have taken a look at these refurbished GPS models made by TomTom:

• Refurbished TomTom Go 910 - The refurbished TomTom Go 910 is an automotive navigation GPS designed to be able to go up against the best from Magellan and Garmin. Onthe Go 910 you are going to find a 4-inch touch screen display with crisp color and full graphics, text-to-speech functionality that comes in 36 languages and 50 voices, an ultra-sensitive SiRF Star III receiver to pick up a GPS signal in lots of different locations, and Bluetooth compatibility.
• Refurbished TomTom Go 720 – The TomTom Go 910 was the first of its kind to have the MapShare technology that allows users to make changes to their maps “on the fly” and then to share these changes with other TomTom users.  Not quite as full featured as the GO 900 series refurbished GPS, the GO 720 still contains a lot of the features that someone is going to be looking for in a first or even second car navigation GPS.  And at the price, the refurbished TomTom GO 720 is a great deal.
• Refurbished TomTom One Third Edition – Currently priced at the ridiculously low $79.99 the refurbished TomTom One Third Edition makes a great entry level GPS for those seeking to get their feet wet in the world of automotive navigation GPS. With free a free map upgrade and the ability to update the software to function like one of the newest models on the market you simply cannot find a GPS with this type of potential that also has this type of price. If you aren’t concerned with all the bells and whistles like Bluetooth, FM transmitters, and spoken street names then this refurbished GPS should definitely be among the top of your list of economical GPS units.

Take a chance to look around and see the more detailed information we have about each of these refurbished TomTom units. If you have anything to add, please feel free to do so.

Free GPS Fleet Tracking Software

If you are looking for some GPS fleet tracking software for your business but don’t want to part with a lot of cash can you think of a better price than free?  That is what OpenGTS provides to those with enough technical know how to set up this free and open source fleet management tool.
You might expect that a tool like this has practically 0 features – but you’d be dead wrong.  OpenGTS is a full featured GPS tracking solution for your business or fleet.  Its features include:

• Web-based authentication: This means that you will be able to support multiple users in your account, each having their own unique password and username as well as access to specified features.  If you have a manager in charge of the tractors on left at the work site but don’t want him having to deal with all the information gathered from your mobile team you can set his account to only have access to the tractor tracking information.  This makes the product scalable for all fleet sizes and business needs.
• Customizable web-page decorations: If you care how your interface looks you are able to change it with OpenGTS.  The look and feel can become of your specific company, increasing brand awareness among your employees.
• Customizable mapping service: As of v1.8.3, OpenGTS comes with support for Mapstraction in addition to the original support for Google Maps and Microsoft Virtual Earth. With the addition of Mapstraction OpenGTS can now display maps from OpenLayers, MultiMap, Map24, MapQuest, and more. Within the OpenGTS framework, other mapping service providers can also easily be integrated with minimal effort.
• Customizable reports: Sometime in can be a big pain to sift through all the data for your fleet at the end of the day.  With customizable reports you can find historical data on problem employees or special projects that makes your life as a manager much easier.  Tracking can be done over the entire fleet or a single car or truck.
• Customizable geofenced areas: Geofencing, as known as creating geozones, is the ability to mark up a map into territories.  These territories can be given custom names (suck at “Roger’s Turf,” or “Fueling Up”), making tracking service calls easy and effective.  You can even set up arrival and departure notifications so you know when a vehicle enters a certain area.
• GPS tracking device independent: OpenGTS comes with support for OpenDMTP capable devices, but it is is not limited to these.  It can be made to work with nearly any available remote GPS tracking device. This compatability enables business to track a variety of devices with one single platform.
• Operating system independent: OpenGTS is written in Java, uses Apache Tomcat for web service deployment, and MySQL for the datastore.  This means that it can run on pretty much any operating system found on a computer – from Windows Vista all the way to Linux.
• i18n Compliant: OpenGTS is i18n compliant and supports easy localization (L10N) to languages other than English. Languages supported currently include English, Spanish, Italian, German, and Turkish.

GPS Device Tips for Newbies: Getting from Point A to Point B Safely

A satellite navigation system could spell the difference between wandering frightened and aimlessly through a dark wooded area and finding your way to the clear path that leads to safety.  Unfortunately, many of us leave the house ill prepared with poor or no direction at all.  This means that we are far more susceptible to getting lost.

The good thing is that getting lost is quickly become an extinct behavior thanks to GPS technology.  With the right unit at your side, you can always know where you are, whether you are traveling a country back road or taking a detour from your normal route.

 

Know Your Device

Before giving away a few tips, we want to stress that you should know whether you will be using a handheld or in car GPS unit.  This is important, as these devices vary greatly in terms of features and functionality.  You should know the device’s range and capabilities to ensure a smooth navigation experience.

Enter Your Destination

To get from one point to the next with any GPS device, simply input a given destination, and the unit will automatically provide you with the most efficient route.  This is the true beauty of satellite navigation, as it eliminates the hassle of stopping to ask for directions or folding up big, complicated maps.  All you have to do is follow the map displayed on your device and you are on your way.

Locate Alternate Routes

Another major benefit of having a GPS device is its ability to give you a bird’s eye view of the area. Subsequently, you can easily use the system to find the best alternative route when the original path is no longer an option.

Mark Relevant Points When Needed

Some GPS receivers give you the ability to mark relevant points for future trips.  This can be very useful if you pass a gas station on the road.  If you do, mark it on the map to so you can remember to pay it a visit next time.

Make it Back Home

With GPS now being a consumer technology, nobody has to worry about getting lost any more.  A good receiver will automatically log the route you just traveled, leaving a virtual trail of breadcrumbs so you can easily find your way back home.

A handy GPS receiver cannot only help you navigate your way through town, but also provide you with other helpful information, such as traffic updates, weather conditions and fuel prices at the nearest gas station.  The more advanced units show that this technology just keeps on getting better.

Snoop Dogg Lends His Voice To GPS Systems

 Snoop Dogg Lends His Voice To GPS Systems

Tired of the boring voices on GPS tracking systems telling you where to go? Don’t fret my pets, Snoop Dogg to the rescue!The 38-year-old rapper has lent his voice out to GPS company TomTom, providing two versions of voice overs. According to NowPublic, “one is Rated G - without swearing and somewhat understandable and one has tons of swearing and is hardly understandable.”
Snoop said, “Its really because when I be riding the car and I be hearing the boring ass lady that be doing all the time it bothering me. She’s always turning my music down and being like, ‘turn left, go right, straight ahead.’”
Check out Snoop as a GPS voice below!

Read more: justjared.buzznet.com

Snoop Dogg's GPS System Everything We Hoped It Would Be

Snoop Dogg's GPS System Everything We Hoped It Would Be  December 11, 2009

You know that feeling you get when something falls short of the lofty expectations in your mind? That disparity can be crushing, like the first time you had sex or watched The Godfather III. The Dogg Father on the other hand, he always delivers.
As you may remember Snoop Dogg voiced a satellite navigation system for TomTom GPS and it's like the opposite of all those seemingly awesome but ultimately disappointing things. It's better than we could have dreamed, you should see how wide our mouths are right now. Like...is...this...real life? Yes this shit is real, I don't even own a car but I'd buy one, strap it around my chest and have Snoop narrate my every move. And if you have trouble piloting your Escalde around confusing city streets this is completely necessary. Ohhh-eeehh!

credit:pedestrian.tv

Doh! Homer Simpson Says You Missed a Right Hand Turn

There is no denying that satellite navigation systems and GPS technology have come a long way over the years.  With GPS’ immense popularity, it is no surprise that a large number of users are increasingly looking for ways to personalize their GPS units.  To meet these fast growing demand, leading manufacturers such as TomTom have introduced solutions designed to satisfy this evolving demographic of users.  Many sat nav device owners now have the ability to customize their units by changing the default voices to something a little more entertaining.

Melding Star Power with GPS Satellites

One of the most well known GPS solutions providers in the world, TomTom already offers a wide variety of celebrity voices for its devices, which happen to be its most popular downloadable items.  Though it is currently enjoying success in this regard, TomTom recently introduced what could be its most popular download of all time.  The company just announced that it will make the voice of animated TV dad, Homer Simpson, available for its GPS units!  A number of TomTom receivers currently come equipped with 70 pre-installed voices in 36 different languages.  Users who would like to download the Homer Simpson voice can now do so for a price specific to their region.  Samples of the new voice are currently available on the TomTom website.

It is clear to see that TomTom has indeed come up on a source of revenue that will allow it to profit outside of its sale of GPS devices and map updates.  If the company can consistently add celebrity voices, such as the likes of Homer Simpson, to its extensive catalogue of sounds, healthy, reoccurring profits will likely be the result.  Who knows?  In a few years, TomTom could become the iTunes Store for the community of GPS users.

The Future of Celebrities

A major selling point of the newer TomTom devices is that they are highly customizable, which greatly adds to what is already very functional hardware. While some of the recent advancements allow users to record and use their own personalized voices, many report to being satisfied with the options TomTom has available for download.  In any event, let’s just hope the company is able to get more celebrities to lend their voices to the world of GPS!

How a TomTom GPS System Really Works

Although you might understand the basic functionality, you may still be curious to know what makes your TomTom GPS device tick.  Whether you own a TomTom 940 or XL, each device consists of two major components: hardware and software.  There is small computer in your sat nav receiver that makes sure the software runs efficiently.  Depending on your TomTom model (if you don’t have one yet, choose your sat nav here), the software is either located on the hard disk or an SD card.  With most devices, the hard disk itself has a capacity of at least 20 GB.

A boot loader searches the hard disk or SD card for the software and map data.  Once they have been located, it transfers the software to the internal memory of your TomTom unit and then initiates the application.  At this point, only the portion of the map that is actually required is loaded onto the device.  TomTom utilizes the stable and powerful Linux operating system to ensure theat your sat nav device functions properly.  The hardware itself starts both the GPS and the built-in navigation program.  This application then reads the settings you have installed on your device.  As you can see, your little TomTom receiver is very capable and works in many of the same ways as a personal computer.

Enhanced Accuracy with the GPS Module

The GPS module is a component in your TomTom device that ensures the satellite signal is translated into the coordinates pinpointing your exact location on the map.  After all the necessary processes have been started, the component then calculates where you are based on the signals it receives.  As you probably know, the GPS module determines position by calculating it from at least four satellites.  However, even though your sat nav device might know its distance from these satellites, it still will not know exactly where you are until evaluating where those satellites are positioned.  Even when this information is obtained, it is not exactly accurate, as the satellites are constantly orbiting the earth.

The GPS module of your TomTom sat nav device really comes into its own by overcoming these problems.  It utilizes almanac information, such as satellite altitude and position, to translate the signals into coordinates and transmits them to the navigation application.  Inside the model is a small, highly sensitive chip with the ability to receive and register these signals even when they are in inaccessible locations, such as dense woods or near tall buildings.  This feature alone plays a huge role in enhancing the consistency and accuracy of any TomTom device.

New Method to Measure Snow, Vegetation Moisture With GPS May Benefit Farmers, Meteorologists

New Method to Measure Snow, Vegetation Moisture With GPS May Benefit Farmers, Meteorologists

ScienceDaily (Nov. 23, 2009) — A research team led by the University of Colorado at Boulder has found a clever way to use traditional GPS satellite signals to measure snow depth as well as soil and vegetation moisture, a technique expected to benefit meteorologists, water resource managers, climate modelers and farmers.

The researchers have developed a technique that uses interference patterns created when GPS signals that reflect off of the ground — called “multipath” signals — are combined with signals that arrive at the antenna directly from the satellite, said CU-Boulder aerospace engineering sciences Professor Kristine Larson, who is leading the study. Since such multipath signals arrive at GPS receivers “late,” they have generally been viewed as noise by scientists and engineers and have largely been ignored, said Larson, who is leading a multi-institution research effort on the project.

In one recent demonstration, the team was able to correlate changes in the multipath signals to snow depth by using data collected at a field site in Marshall, Colo. just south of Boulder, which was hit by two large snowstorms over a three-week span in March and April of 2009. Published in the September issue of Geophysical Research Letters, the snowpack study built on a project Larson and her colleagues have been working on that is funded by the National Science Foundation to measure soil moisture using GPS receivers.

The new study on snow and vegetation moisture will be presented at the fall meeting of the American Geophysical Union being held in San Francisco Dec. 14 to 18.

Larson’s group is the first to use traditional GPS receivers — which were designed for use by surveyors and scientists to measure plate tectonics and geological processes — to assess snowpack, soil moisture and vegetation moisture. The team hopes to apply the technique to data collected from an existing network of more than 1,000 GPS receivers in place around the West known as the Plate Boundary Observatory, a component of NSF’s Earthscope science program.

“By using the Plate Boundary Observatory for double duty, so to speak, we hope this will be a relatively inexpensive and accurate method that can benefit climate modelers, atmospheric researchers and farmers throughout the West,” said Larson.

Study collaborators, all from Boulder, include CU-Boulder’s Eric Small and Mark Williams, John Braun from the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, Ethan Gutmann from the National Center for Atmospheric Research and Valery Zavorotny and Andria Bilich from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The most recent effort by the team has been conducted in cooperation with Munson Farms of Boulder. The new experiment is designed to analyze how the GPS signals traveling through alfalfa, corn and grass correlate with the amount of water in the vegetation. Small and CU-Boulder students have been cutting and weighing both wet and dry vegetation and matching the sample weights with comparative GPS multipath signal changes using a receiver set up at the farm.

The team is collaborating with Bob Munson, owner of Munson Farms and a former antenna engineer at Ball Aerospace & Technologies of Boulder. Munson holds more than 30 patents related to antenna design, including one of the most widely used antennas for GPS applications like vehicle navigation and recreational applications.

2 men accused of stealing GPS units, then breaking into homes

A Pittsfield Township police arrested two men they believe researchers are GPS systems for stealing cars throughout southeast Michigan, who is responsible and then use them to break into their homes.

Mainly for cinema and restaurant parking lots, the thieves would use the address in the GPS and the remote control to break into houses, said Troy Police Lt. Michael Lyczkowski today.

"They have been around," said Lyczkowski. "Probably almost every day, from Toledo to New Haven, in northern Macomb County. The fact that these guys were taking the GPS unit using the information stored in them, then burst into the house, which is pretty bold."

Christopher Cacicedo of Trenton and Phillip Trivett Rockwood, both 23, still in the Washtenaw County jail after their arrest on 25 November. The couple was charged 30th November through 14A-1 District Court in Ann Arbor, on charges of home invasion, burglary of a vehicle, burglary and possession of criminal tools.

Magistrate Margaret Currie September Cacicedo bond is $ 25,000 in cash and Trivett bond at $ 20,000. Neither a bond posted by 1 today

Troy police were able to describe the suspicious truck "CCTV to get a break from November 11 in Chuck E. Cheese, 740 exchanged, John R, home a burglary in Royal Oak are caused by the investigators. Police with information other agencies through the Michigan Intelligence Network Operations Center.

Using this information, Detroit police investigators of suspicious activity filed Trenton Police promise a young 23-year-old from Trenton, and a 23-year-old man from Rockwood. Together, the investigators from Trenton, Riverview, Troy, Auburn Hills, Bloomfield Township, and Sylvania, Ohio, - he had received reports of similar thefts - have begun to monitor suspects.

On 25 November, a witness reported a broken car in Pittsfield Township police, the neighbors, because it was the control of suspects. Officers arrested the couple accused of, according to the department.

When the officers searched the suspect's home in Trenton, they found a large quantity of stolen items, including articles stolen from the Oakland County.

Overall, the police believe the suspects could be used for the thefts in Berkeley, Clinton Township, responsible Commerce Township, Dearborn Heights, Grosse Pointe, Livonia, Monroe County, New Haven, Pittsfield Township, Riverview, Royal Oak, Southgate, Trenton, Troy, West Bloomfield, Wixom, Woodhaven, and Sylvania, Ohio.

 credit: freep.com

Third Step How to buy a cheap gps

Third Step How to buy a cheap gps.

First, You have to know what kind of Gps you wanna get. It's a lot of brands and models. You have to find out their properties, options, modules, function that they all have. Then you write that name down.

Second, If you want to Online Search, you should to know their websites, then find out the kind of Gps you wanna get and compare the price. And eBay.com can save your money than 40%. if you do not wanna buy gps on eBay, you can check price with garmin site, magellan site, tomtom site or other gps site that you know, just make sure that you are buying from reputable seller.

Last, You should also make sure that you find out for extra discount or coupons before you do decide to buy a cheap Gps.

GPS RECEIVER TRACKING PERFORMANCE UNDER IONOSPHERIC SCINTILLATION CONDITIONS

GPS RECEIVER TRACKING PERFORMANCE UNDER IONOSPHERIC SCINTILLATION CONDITIONS

GPS receiver tracking performance can be degraded during periods of enhanced ionospheric activity, where small-scale scintillation effects (phase and amplitude variations) are observed in the high latitude auroral region and the low latitude equatorial anomaly region. During periods of intense scintillation, the availability of carrier phase observations may be limited through loss of signal lock, with a significant impact on precise positioning applications. Such effects have a larger impact on the L2 tracking performance, where codeless and semicodeless technologies are employed to extract the encrypted L2 signal.

The tracking performance of a given receiver depends not only on the magnitude of scintillation activity observed, but also on the receiver tracking capabilities. Recent research has shown that tracking performance can vary significantly between receivers, under identical scintillation conditions. In this presentation, the impact of scintillation effects on various receiver tracking capabilities is presented. A comparison of receiver technologies is conducted, using both codeless and semicodeless GPS receivers. Performance comparisons are established and interpreted with respect to GPS network applications and GPS availability at solar maximum. The frequency and magnitude of receiver tracking errors is also examined on a regional basis, for both the high latitude and low latitude regions.

credit:igscb.jpl.nasa.gov

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Territory joins in worldwide celebration of GIS Day today

The Territory today joins its global counterparts in celebrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day under the focus, ‘Discovering the World through GIS’.
GIS Day is a global event held annually to celebrate GIS technology, the innovative technology which uses geography to bring countless benefits to the world. The local observance is spearheaded by the National GIS Technical Steering Committee.

During a recent GIS Radio Report, Public Relations Officer for this year’s GIS Day, Mr. Earl Forbes highlighted the storage capacity of the GIS technology and the benefits it provides in decision making and efficiency aspects.

“GIS is a tool which consists of software, hardware and most importantly people. They all combine to store information which becomes key. We provide a service to the public and if we can find ways of doing so more efficiently then that is a main benefit of having the GIS. It makes us efficient in delivering services to the public,” Mr. Forbes said.

Fellow Public Relations Officer for GIS Day, Mrs. Rozina Norris Gumbs spoke of the benefits that GIS technology provides to its users and its use within the Conservation and Fisheries Department.

“We use GIS to monitor marine eco-systems, fisheries areas, oil spills, coral reef degradation, mangrove replanting areas and to assist students with environmental projects and many other areas,” she explained.

In observance of GIS Day, the National GIS Steering Committee which comprises of 13 Government departments and statutory bodies will visit fourth and fifth form geography classes to help improve students’ knowledge of GIS technology and its applications.

Students will be given exercises to help broaden their geography skills, such as detecting elevation, measuring contour lines, calculating depth and height and visualising the Territory’s geography.

GIS Day provides an opportunity for curious persons to observe GIS applications in action. GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes information from a database such as location, streets, parcel number, buildings, water features, and terrain and turns it into visual layers. This technology provides users with the ability to locate geographic features on a map which allows them to better understand a particular location.  This also enables planners and analysts to make more informed decisions about their communities.

GIS is used throughout the world to solve problems related to the environment, health care, land use, business efficiency, education and public safety. This technology can also help businesses place automated teller machines (ATM’s) and restaurants at more convenient locations, allow people to pull maps off the Internet, and help farmers grow more crops with less chemicals.

GIS Day serves to create more public awareness of GIS technology and the important contributions it has made within the fields of science, technology, information, and the humanities. Within the Territory, the National GIS Steering Committee uses GIS Day as an opportunity to demonstrate the use of GIS technology and how it helps to make a difference in our daily lives.

The National GIS Technical Steering Committee

The National GIS Technical Steering Committee consists of 13 government departments and statutory bodies which are:

          o Town & Country Planning Department
          o Conservation & Fisheries Department
          o Land Registry Department
          o Survey Department
          o Environmental Health
          o Royal Virgin Islands Police Force
          o Fire & Rescue Services Department
          o National Parks Trust
          o Public Works Department
          o Water & Sewerage Department
          o Department of Disaster Management
          o Agriculture Department
          o Department of Information Technology

The committee meets every third Thursday to discuss GIS initiatives, GIS education and training, and career building capacities in GIS.

Furuno Acquires eRide, Makes it GPS Nav and Timing Center

Furuno Electric Co., Ltd. (Nishinomiya, Japan) has acquired eRide, the San Francisco-based maker of assisted GPS chips and software. As a subsidiary of Furuno, eRide will become Furuno’s central location for GPS navigation and timing chipset development.
Previously Furuno’s commitment included licensing the eRide technology and also providing capital investment funding. Furuno has now acquired more than 90 percent shareholding of eRide. With the acquisition, eRide sales and procurement functions will be taken over by Furuno, while the eRide division will continue to be dedicated to research and development.

"The market demand for ultra-reliable, high-quality GPS receivers has increased exponentially over the years and GPS applications have spread into many different areas," a Furuno statement said. With eRide as the GPS navigation and timing center, Furuno will be able to continue providing its customers with advanced, dependable market-specific GPS products, the statement said.

eRide, a fabless venture company, was established in 1999 by a group of GPS engineers and professionals engaging in the development, design, and sales of high-sensitivity GPS chipsets. In 2005, Furuno entered into a licensing agreement with eRide. The following year Furuno further strengthened the relationship with eRide by underwriting preferred shares of eRide stock. Furuno’s acquisition of eRide’s high-sensitivity GPS technology, LSI design technology, and other intellectual properties will merge with Furuno’s existing GPS core technology .

Furuno is a maker of GPS modules and chipsets for Japan’s automobile industry, especially for in-car navigation systems. Furuno also supplies GPS navigation and timing receivers worldwide for a wide range of applications. Starting out as a marine navigation company, Furuno developed a fish finder in 1948, then became established as a manufacturer in a wide range of marine electronics manufacturing. Over the years, Furuno created the System Products Division which includes the GPS/timing and medical divisions.

Garmin Mobile PC

Garmin Mobile PC

Garmin Mobile PC has just been launched [April 2008]. The following is a user review and discussion of this new GPS navigation software program for laptop PCs, and other Microsoft Windows based computers.

What's included:

There are two packages: Garmin Mobile PC with a GPS receiver, MSRP US$99.99 (on the above pictures), and the GPS navigation software program alone, $59.99, for those who already have a GPS receiver.

Map data:

Garmin version 2009 map data is included (today, April 2008). It is based on Navteq 2007 and some Canadian data is by DMTI. Beside the North American version, there is also a version with map data for Europe.

Installation:

I was performing the installation on my mobile computer away from home, and I didn't have the product key with me. I don't even know where the product key is - I will have to look for it when I get home. On the back of the CD case there is a sticker with a serial number, but that is not the product key. I skipped the product key entry by simply clicking the "Connect to Garmin GPS receiver":

I did have the Garmin USB GPS with me, but it wasn't connected yet. I wanted to see what would happen if I just use a plain non-Garmin USB GPS receiver.

To use a non-Garmin GPS unit, it is necessary to "activate the product. I will activate later. For now I justed plugged in the Garmin GPS receiver, and within a minute I was able to use the program.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marvin Hlavac EDIT [May 29, 2008]: I didn't undestand this at the time of writing the review, but the following are the facts about product keys: The version which includes Garmin USB GPS20x receiver does not include a product key. The product key is not needed for Garmin Mobile PC to function with the included GPS receiver. The software-only version of Garmin Mobile PC does include a product key (on the inside of the DVD case, on a big green sticker). The product key enables the program to be used with any 3rd party GPS receiver supporting NMEA standard. Users of Garmin Mobile PC w/GPS20x, who wish to use the software with a 'normal' (NMEA) GPS receiver, would need to obtain a product key to enable non-Garmin GPS receivers to function with the program. The only way (I'm aware of) to obtain a product key is by purchasing the program.

Set your destination:

The user interface is intuitive. Buttons appear large enough to be used even with large fingers on a small UMPC touch-screen. However, my mobile setup doesn't use a touch screen, and my monitor is rather large, so I will be looking forward to reading feedback by users with Ultra-Mobile PCs and TabletPCs.

For some reason Garmin did not include OSK (on screen keyboard) with its new Garmin Mobile PC program. Could it be because UMPCs and TabletPCs have their own OSKs? Or is it an oversight due to Garmin thinking only about laptop PC users, but overlooking the needs of others? How do people with touch screens feel about this? The first reaction of CarPC community is a surprise and disappointment.

I love the "Search all cities" function. I would be very hesitant to ever recommend a GPS navigation program to anyone living in and around a large city like Toronto, without the ability to skip entering town in the process of entering destination address. I often may know the street I need to go to, but I may not necessarily know the city. Cross a street around here, and you may be technically in a different city - very confusing .

Enter street number, street name...

...and you will see your destination. You may zoom-in to see it better.

I was on a parking lot, so my GPS position is showing as not being on the road yet (as shown above),

...but once I started to move, all started to look very good .

Routing Preferences:

Optimization of multiple stops

Garmin Mobile PC has a built-in feature which can sort stops (vias) to save travelling time.

Note that is it possible to include or exclude the last stop from the route optimization process.

See the route at the following before-&-after pictures:

Included GPS receiver:

GPS20x is a very small USB GPS receiver that is included in the $99 bundle, but it can be also purchased separately. Garmin's website currently lists GPS20x (sensor only) at MSRP $ 69.99 USD. New GPS receivers these days are all of very good sensitivity to weak satellite signals, in comparison to the older technology of only few years ago. I don't plan on doing any comparison with other GPS units, because I think the technology has advanced to a point that any brand new GPS receiver on the market today is more than good enough for on-road GPS navigation. Suffice to say that GPS20x is not a disappointment by any means. As the above screenshot shows, it currently has a fix on 12 satellites - I see as many as 12 satellites simultaneously only very infrequently in my geographical area, and I've used GPS receivers mounted even on the roof of my vehicle. GPS20x is inside of my truck, and it seems to perform very well.

Ease-of-use: touch-screen vs. keyboard:

My mobile setup uses a keyboard, and a screen which has no touch capability. Garmin Mobile PC may compel me to actually consider upgrading to a touch-screen setup. While this program uses several keyboard shortcuts making it fairly easy to use on a laptop PC, it must be even easier to just touch the big buttons right on the screen.

Those of us using our keyboards, notice the F11 and F12 hotkeys on the above screenshots. Most hotkeys are marked right under various buttons, as also shown on some of the screenshots bellow.

Instead of using hotkeys such as F1, F2, F3, etc, users may easily navigate between various buttons with ArrowRight, ArrowLeft, ArrowUp, and ArrowDown keys on the keyboard. Select your desired button with an arrow key, and then just hit the Enter-key to press the button.

Zoom-in and zoom-out can be performed on a touch-screen by tapping the (+) and (-) areas on the right of the screen. Keyboard users may do the same with a surprising variety of hotkeys: (+) and (-), and (+) and (_), and my most favorite is actually ArrowUp and ArrowDown keys - because the arrow keys are easily accessible on my keyboard. If none of the above is your favorite, you may still use Q-key and P-key to change the zoom level - both Q and P are in the top row of letters on the keyboard - Q is the first, and P is the last, so it may be easy to remember. The programmer who put all these hotkeys in must understand people love to play with zoom ! Did I forget to say you may also mouse-click the (+) and (-) on the right-side of map to zoom in and out?

Garmin Online (TM):

Ducati, a user of Garmin Mobile PC, writes:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ducati One of the best features is the free Garmin Online. - By tapping "Weather" tab you can check local weather information based on current location or enter another location. - By tapping "hotels.com" tab you can check hotel/lodging prices based on current location or enter another location. This will show you closest to farthest with direction arrow, distance, and price. - By tapping "Fuel Prices" you can check current fuel prices based on current location or enter another location. This will show you closest to farthest with direction arrow, distance, and price. You can choose from low, medium, high grade gasoline or diesel. I went around the area to check on listed prices and it was exactly right. - By tapping "Flight Status" you can get flight info based on current location or enter another location. You can pick from "Check Flight Number", "Departures", or "Arrivals" to get detailed information. All you need to do is connect via WiFi, Network Card, tethered PDA or Cell Phone. I tethered an EDGE T-Mobile cell phone and it pulled up information very quickly this is not a slow moving feature. All of these features work very well and display the information clear and easy to read, very cool!

Customization:

It is possible to download free files of vehicles to be used instead of the default arrow icon.

Read the following user discussion on the topic: Changing your vehicle indicator icon in Garmin Mobile PC.


Buy:

• Buy in USA
  

• Buy Garmin Mobile PC - This is the software program, and it includes maps of USA and Canada. Buy it if you already have a compatible GPS receiver that works with your laptop, or if you wish to buy a USB GPS or Bluetooth GPS other than the ones offered in the Garmin packages bellow.
• Buy Garmin Mobile PC 20x -This package includes the software program (with USA/Canada map) and also a USB GPS receiver.
• Buy Garmin Mobile PC 10x - This package includes the software program (USA and Canada map) and also a Bluetooth GPS receiver.

• Buy in UK
  

• Buy Garmin Mobile PC - This is the software program, and it contains map data for most of Europe. Buy it if you already have a compatible GPS receiver that works with your laptop, or if you wish to buy a different GPS for your laptop.
• Buy Garmin Mobile PC 20x -This package includes the software (with maps of Europe) program and also a USB GPS receiver.