Rocky Mountain Tracking

Daily GPS News

New Handheld GPS Device

April 11th, 2013

At the recent Outdoor Retailer show, Rand McNally announced the release of a new handheld GPS device, known as the Foris 850. This product is designed to appeal specifically to the outdoor market, which includes such individuals as hikers, bikers, geocachers, and other open-air enthusiasts.

The Basics

In order to produce this device, Rand McNally partnered with Falk Outdoor Navigation. This company is experienced in the field and is a leading competitor in the European outdoor market. For this partnership, Rand McNally provided the content while Falk Outdoor furnished the hardware. The device has a 3” touch screen and 8 gigabytes of internal memory, allowing for the storage of 7,000 waypoints. It ships with a bike mount, batteries, and an anti-glare screen protector. Preloaded on the GPS navigation device are contour maps with over 5 million miles of US trails and roadways. The device is also capable of providing turn-by-turn voice navigation on both trails and roads, and it allows users to compare three alternate routes with their elevation profiles.

The Special Features

As if these basic qualities were not sufficient to gender consumers’ interest, the Foris 850 has a number of special capabilities. The TrackNav feature enables users to create “breadcrumb” trails in order to find their way back to a starting point. A capability called Loop Me! allows individuals to enter their preferred time or distance and create a looped trail that meets their specifications. This feature even includes an option to select a flat or hilly route. A built-in barometric altimeter displays accurate elevation and allows the user to determine the amount of elevation change necessary to reach a location. The device’s included maps are drawn from multiple databases including the U.S. National Park Service, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, National Forestry, U.S. National Wildlife Refuge, national hydrographic dataset, and State Parks. The included data also specifies millions of points of interest such as campgrounds, attractions, and recreation areas. For those searching for geocaches, the device is integrated with geocaching.com and so contains all of the website’s hints, descriptions, and logs to aid in their search.

With all of these capabilities, the suggested retail price of $399 seems quite reasonable. The Foris 850 is expected to start shipping to stores in April and will likely quickly move to the forefront of the handheld GPS device market.

How GPS Could Save U.S. Farmers

April 10th, 2013

People have always shared a somewhat dangerous relationship with nature. Our hunter/gatherer ancestors relied on nature to produce food in large enough quantities to sustain themselves. As farming spread throughout the world, certain elements of food production came under human control, but the vast majority of responsibility was still with nature to provide correct weather at the right time to sustain life. Even today, with impressive irrigations systems criss-crossing Southern California, massive machinery helping to turn the midwest into a seemingly endless supply of corn, and graders carving farmland out of previously unusable areas, farmers still face an uphill struggle in their battle to control as many aspects of farming as they can. With financial ruin only one bad season or new law away for so many farmers, GPS technology may provide them with help they need to achieve a more secure financial state.

GPS navigation allows farmers to plot their fields more accurately and specialize treatment for exact areas within each field. In recent years, farming has become as much about science as it has traditionally been about back breaking labor. Farmers take soil samples to determine what crops will best grow where, and what fields need to be fertilized when. GPS helps farmers track this information more accurately than before, allowing them a more detailed knowledge of their fields, and providing them with the information needed to care specifically for trouble areas. In this way GPS also saves farmers money, as there is a lower risk of fertilizing or spraying too broad a section because the farmer didn’t know exactly how large of an area needed treatment.

In addition to helping farmers treat fields in preparation for a crop, GPS can help farmers determine how successful the harvest was in different fields. With this information, farmers can spend the rest of the year cultivating fields that are in need of extra work, and maintaining the fields that did well through field specific preparation. By enabling farmers to have greater knowledge of their fields, GPS systems are helping to reduce the cost of farming, and encourage field specific preparation techniques, which will result in greater crop yields. While farmers will continue to contend with nature, GPS is helping to eliminate problems that have plagued them for just as long.

GPS for the Visually Impaired

April 4th, 2013

Recently, a man by the name of Mike Hanson proved the value of GPS for the visually impaired. Using only trekking poles and a smartphone, he successfully hiked the length of the Appalachian Trail. Hanson accomplished this feat motivated by his desire to prove to the world that visually impaired individuals can use modern technology to achieve an incredible degree of independence.

How Did He Do It?

Contrary to what people might think, Hanson did not utilize expensive equipment to perform this exercise. He used his Nokia N82 cell phone and Loadstone, a free open source system of GPS for the visually impaired. Loadstone allows users to locate points of interest that have been previously stored by the owner or other users and then provides voiced directions to enable the visually impaired person to navigate to the location. For this trek, Hanson obtained data from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to program his phone with points that included trailheads, campsites, and sources of water. Using software available on the Loadstone website, he was able to add voice instructions for these locations as well as establish a route and checkpoints. Once on the trail, Hanson used his trekking poles for fine navigation and to avoid obstacles, but used the phone’s GPS system, fortified with a thirty-two hour battery, to verify his overall location. At each checkpoint, he would play the next set of instructions to determine the approximate distance and direction to the following checkpoint. Using these methods, Hanson was able to complete the entire length of the trail from Georgia to Maine in a seven-month period.

What Are the Ramifications?

Of course, Mike Hanson was not only trying to prove that a visually impaired individual could successfully navigate the Appalachian Trail. He was trying to convince both the seeing and non-seeing world that technology could be used to allow those with sight impairments to live normal lives. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the software and equipment that are available and of their relative inexpensiveness. As a result, employers are hesitant to hire the visually impaired, and the individuals themselves are afraid to step out on their own. Hanson is trying to change these realities through writing a book about his experiences and by developing new GPS technology. His company, Wayfinder Angels Corporation, is working to raise awareness of the technological aids available and also to improve the current products.

If Hanson has his way, technology will enable people like himself to perform the normal and extraordinary tasks they need and long to do. GPS for the visually impaired will be but one of many assistive programs available to help these individuals lead full, independent lives.

GPS for Wi-Fi iOS Devices

April 4th, 2013

GPS for Wi-Fi iOS devices is a feature that has been sought by many consumers. After purchasing an iPod Touch or a Wi-Fi only iPad, users are often disappointed to learn that they cannot use their new devices for navigation. Their Apple or Google Maps apps work only while they are connected to a Wi-Fi network, thus rendering them virtually useless when driving down the road. A recent development by Bad Elf and CoPilot Live may provide the answer consumers have been seeking.

The Receiver

Upon purchasing this system, the customer receives what appears to be a typical data connector cable. One end of the cable is a USB connector that can be connected to a computer or car power source, allowing the device to charge and sync. The other end of the cable contains the connector for the device, but it also holds the Bad Elf GPS receiver. The receiver draws its power from the iOS device itself or from the power source to which it is connected.

The Software

The Bad Elf GPS for Wi-Fi iOS devices is being marketed as a package with CoPilot software. It is also possible to purchase the GPS separately, although the savings are minimal. At any rate, the GPS receiver can be used with any iOS app that uses self-contained maps. This includes such applications as Magellan Roadmate, Navigon, TomTom, and Garmin, as well as the CoPilot Live app. Programs like Google Maps do not work with the device since they require a data connection to obtain the map information.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The obvious advantage of this technology is that it enables users to perform GPS navigation without paying for costly cell data plans. The large screen of the iPad makes viewing the maps and directions quite enjoyable. It does seem that the external Bad Elf GPS receiver is somewhat slower than its built-in counterpart on the iPhone. In addition, it may sometimes be more difficult to acquire and keep a GPS signal. The company advises using an extender cable in order to place the receiver closer to the window of the vehicle.

Due to its cost ($99) and its occasional drawbacks, this new product may not be the answer to everyone’s prayers. But for those looking for a way to utilize GPS for Wi-Fi iOS devices, it is certainly an option worth considering and may be the harbinger of other products of this nature.

GPS Navigation by Vibration

April 4th, 2013

Bicyclists are part of a growing group of users of GPS navigation systems. However, a new device developed by the University of Amsterdam may change the way in which cyclists utilize this technology.

The Problem

Using a GPS to navigate unfamiliar territory on a bicycle is typically a somewhat complicated process. First, the cyclist must input his destination into his smartphone, then he must attach the device to the handlebar of his bicycle. As he sets out on his ride, he must refer often to the screen of his smartphone to learn the direction he should take. This frequent checking distracts the cyclist from his primary focus on the road, which can result in accidents or near misses. In addition, the glare of outside light obscures the screen of the smartphone, and traffic noise makes hearing the voice of the GPS system nearly impossible.

A Potential Solution

Recognizing these problems, Dutch researchers at the University of Amsterdam set out to develop a device that would enable cyclists to keep their focus on the road ahead and on the environment around them. This device, called a vibrobelt, is designed to be worn around the rider’s waist. Once the cyclist selects his destination using the GPS navigation system of his smartphone, he does not need to refer to the screen again. Instead, the vibrobelt at his waist guides him along his route by providing directional nudges just prior to each necessary turn. This guidance enables the rider to keep his head up and aware of his surroundings and eliminates the frequent checks of his smartphone.

The Test

To try out their idea, researchers had twenty volunteers navigate unfamiliar routes using both methods — the vibrobelt and a standard GPS display on a smartphone mounted on the handlebars. Both approaches enabled the cyclists to successfully reach their destinations, but there was one major difference. After their ride, the volunteers were asked questions about the landmarks they had passed along their route. Those who used the vibrobelt had observed significantly more of their surroundings than those who referred to their smartphone display. This difference seems to indicate that the vibrobelt achieved its goal of keeping cyclists focused on their environment rather than on their handlebars, thus improving their safety. This new technology may be an important advance in the field of GPS navigation.

GPS Apps for Smartphones

April 3rd, 2013

With recent advances, many people are choosing GPS apps for smartphones. There are a number of applications on the market and their features vary as widely as their price tags. Most of the latest developments have been for the iPhone iOS. The latest system release for this device included a new app called Apple Maps. Unfortunately, this program did not perform up to expectations, even drawing an apology from Apple due to its poor functioning. Following this failure, a number of other apps were made available.

The Free Apps

The most attractive option to consumers is the free apps. These include such programs as Google Maps, Scout by Telenav, and Waze. Google Maps offers very good walking directions and public transit navigation. It also includes free voice navigation. Its driving directions are not quite as helpful, and its interface is lacking much of the information drivers have come to expect from their dash-mounted GPS. Scout by Telenav is the better app in the driving directions department, yet it too lacks some of the expected information like speed limits or lane assistance. It also does not provide walking directions. Waze brings crowdsourcing and social networking to navigation. This background can be especially helpful for obtaining real time traffic information.

Paid Apps

Paid GPS apps for smartphones offer a number of features to compensate for their sometimes hefty price tag. $40-$50 is the most common cost for products in this genre. Paid navigation apps, which include such options as Navigon, Magellan RoadMate, and Garmin, offer much more streamlined driving directions. They choose the best route based on current traffic or road quality. Unlike most free applications, these programs take into account the rules of the road and refrain from directing you to drive the wrong way on one-way streets. The driver will also see features familiar to him from his stand-alone GPS unit such as 2D and 3D lane assist and information on the speed limit for the current road.

While it appears that many people will rely more on their smartphones for navigation, stand-alone GPS units continue to have an assured place in the market. These units are able to offer many features and tracking capabilities that cannot be rivaled by a mobile device. It is likely that the future will bring more GPS apps for smartphones that will integrate with and serve as accessories to the stand-alone devices and programs.

Magellan Introduces smartGPS: Navigation With a Social Side

March 10th, 2013

So you thought standalone GPS devices were on their way out the door? Smartphone GPS apps have largely replaced the need for separate navigation systems, but Magellan has one more trick up its sleeve with the release of its new smartGPS which can complement the capabilities your current smartphone. The new smartGPS, slated to be released this spring with a $249 price tag combines live travel information with a social twist. Not only can you map your route from point A to B, smartGPS will help you find the best gas prices, a great little place to eat or a hot spot hangout with Yelp reviews, or to take advantage of a Foursquare offer.

Cloud-Based Synchronization

This neat little piece of hardware provides real-time info by using Magellan’s Ecosystem cloud-based synchronization. Though you might plan your trip using your home computer, the route is beamed to the SmartGPS in the car in your driveway via the home’s WiFi connection. (You can also transfer the same information with a micro-USB). Likewise, information can be transferred between the GPS and your iOS or Android smartphone (with a free app) using Bluetooth. Say you want to find an address your friend just texted you on your phone? Just send it over to the Smart GPS and it will map a route for you. Or maybe your passenger selects a venue from a Yelp review on the phone; it can then be transferred to the navigation device.

Fingertip Navigation

Magellan’s new dashboard navigation tool hopes to provide a little something for everyone, so it has eight tiles on its 5 inch LCD screen that can be swiped from the right to provide live info such as weather, traffic alerts, red light camera warnings, nearby gas stations and fuel prices, and, of course, Yelp and Foursquare data. Just touch one of the tiles to maximize its size and receive more info. Don’t want to clutter your screen? Select only the tiles you wish to be visible, or hide them all.

All The Bells and Whistles

With 4 GB of memory, the smartGPS can store your favorite apps and maps. There is also a memory slot for other map data. For the person who has to have all the features, Magellan also offers a compatible wireless back-up camera for its smartGPS ($150) which allows the driver to see who or what is behind the vehicle.

Will Magellan be able to pull the dashboard navigational device back through the door? We’ll only have to wait until April to see.

Garmin Uses Cutting Edge Technology to Make GPS Enabled Devices Even Smarter

March 6th, 2013

We’ve already seen how far automobiles have come with features like automatic braking systems and OnStar navigation, adding both safety and major convenience. Garmin, like Magellan, is taking both GPS tracking technology and added vehicle features to the next level.

Bicycling and Driving with Garmin

Garmin’s Edge 810 and 510 are a technology, never before designed by Garmin, for serious cyclists. Both versions’ freestanding device allows users to connect with their iPhone to GPS track their current coordinates en route, check upcoming weather, share media, and have capability of service from not only GPS but also Russia’s GLONASS. In addition ,the Edge 810 will measure distance and pace, the number of calories burned, and GPS coordinates, among many other data.

Improved Functionality with New Features

Garmin’s latest GPS enabled equipment will feature “Real Directions” when relaying upcoming places to the driver, using not only mile markers but also surrounding landmarks and traffic signs or stops to guide him. Multiple devices will include “Active Lane Guidance” incorporating animated lane display and lane change suggestions via voice notification. The feature will also tell users about upcoming traffic (real-time), and with voice control the driver, speaking his request to the GPS device, can pick a more efficient route or destination (called the “up ahead” element) without having to backtrack at the current one.

“Humanizing” the Nuvi 3597 LMTHD

Many of the aforementioned features will be available in the specific GPS tracking device nuvi 3597 LMTHD, an upgrade from its predecessor the nuvi 3590LMT. When characterizing its devices in both quality and functionality, Garmin uses the Prestige (the absolute best), Advanced, and Essential grades. Considered a cream-of-the-crop Prestige device, the nuvi 3597 LMTHD is incredibly thin, with a 5 inch glass touch screen, and attaches to an easy-to-use magnetic mount. Some of the features included in the nuvi 3597 LMTHD are lifetime map updating, traffic information renewal (every half minute) via High Definition Radio, three dimensional structure visuals, voice control, and landscape mapping.

Much of the information used by Garmin’s devices can be protected with the newly released Garmin Express, the company’s way of updating equipment firmware and location charts or saving and transporting user data.

Could Your GPS Lead You Wrong?

March 5th, 2013

Harm’s Way

Apparently, even a high-tech GPS device can be misleading. In Victoria, Australia, a South Wales man was pulled over driving the wrong way down a highway, telling police that he was following his GPS instructions. An Ohio woman “turned right” as directed and found herself driving on train tracks, one minute away from an oncoming train. A Senegalese man’s GPS took him on a long drive down a short pier into a lake in Spain.

Not-So-Smooth Operator

Then again, you can never underestimate the power of inaccurate programming. A Belgian woman drove 900 miles out of her way and landed in Croatia instead of her intended destination: the train station in Brussels, a mere 90 miles from her home. She reported that she just kept following her GPS instructions, but it is inconclusive as to whether she entered the correct address.

Technical Difficulty

Aside from a driver’s programming errors, other factors can cause a navigation device to deliver inaccurate route instructions. The principal error pertains to the GPS receiver’s inaccurate time keeping. The on-board computer receives information traveling (theoretically) at light speed from three or more satellites which calculates speed, position and altitude in GPS time, which does not always synchronize with the device’s clock. The result is that calculated distances can drift. The solution? Well, there are two: one is to install an atomic clock in each receiver at a cost of $100,000. But since this option is rather cost-prohibitive, manufacturers have chosen to use some clever mathematics to determine how a GPS detects satellite signals, which in turn, allows the device’s clock to reset.

Time Warp

GPS errors can also be caused by differences in information transmission/receiving speeds or actual signal distortions. The speed of microwave signals from satellites is specific and slightly different from the rate at which a receiver detects those signals, thus allowing for a distance error rate of up to about 9 feet. Atmospheric conditions can distort a signal before it reaches the receiver, as can reflections from large, solid objects or structures. A satellite’s time keeping may also be a little off-kilter, which is why a GPS seeks to use data from at least three satellites to get more consistent updates.

Right On

Consumer-grade navigation device accuracy will likely be improved over time; military use GPS models are already at least ten times as accurate. But while you wait to get your hands on something better, it’s best to read the road signs: if they are written in a foreign language or if they indicate one-way oncoming traffic or trains, follow your nose instead of your GPS navigation system.

Survey Shows Car Owners Dissatisfied With Factory-Installed GPS

February 26th, 2013

A growing number of car owners are unhappy with the performance of their onboard GPS navigation devices, according to a recent report from J.D. Power and Associates. They conducted a survey of car owners at the end of 2012 which showed the level of satisfaction in their GPS navigation systems dropping 13 points from the year prior. There were a total of six factors measured and the study revealed that the biggest complaint drivers have is ease of use, dropping a total of 25 points, although levels were down across the board in all six categories.

Besides ease of use, the study looked at routing, speed of the system, navigation display screen, voice activation, and voice directions. It seems drivers were fed up with the complicated menu systems of their GPS devices, the difficult to use voice control commands, and the way destinations are entered into the device.

The Smartphone to the Rescue

If they aren’t happy with their in-dash GPS device, how are people finding their way? It seems a growing number of drivers are turning to their smartphones instead. The study indicates that 47 percent of those polled had downloaded a GPS navigation app as compared to 37 percent back in 2011.

46 percent said they “definitely would not” or “probably would not” ever again buy a vehicle equipped with in-dash GPS navigation if the directions displayed on the screens of their smartphones could be sent and displayed on the screen in their vehicle.

“Manufacturers of navigation systems face a serious challenge as smartphone navigation usage continues to rise and gains preference among vehicle owners,” said Mike VanNieuwkuyk, executive director of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. “Free apps, up-to-date maps, and a familiar interface allow for quicker routing and improved interaction, including better voice recognition. Manufacturers have a window of opportunity to either improve upon the current navigation system platforms or focus on new ways to integrate smartphones.”

The Winners

There were some GPS systems that car owners liked, including the Garmin installed in the Chrysler 300 Series and Dodge Charger and the Harman installed in the Porsche Cayenne. Overall, Garmin devices fared the best across the board, most importantly ease of use. Harman scored high points for its voice activation.

The study, “2012 US Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study,” looked at opinions of 20,704 people who had recently either purchased or leased a 2012 vehicle featuring a factory-installed GPS navigation system. J.D. Power and Associates conducted the study in October an November of last year.