Bluetooth GPS and PDA Explained

Traveling used to mean packing along detailed and illegible maps and compasses of questionable reliability. Given the number of times travelers had to stop and pull over to check a map, it's a wonder that we ever traveled at all! These days, modern travelers can easily find their way with a small hand held wonder called a GPS receiver.

Every since GPS became widely available on the market the need for maps and large navigational devices became redundant. Today's traveler can refer to the tiny computer screen on the GPS receiver to find exactly where to go.

GPS receivers are small electronic devices that work by calculating your precise location on earth. This location is found by decoding signals received from satellites in outer space. Using additional electronics and software, it's then possible for the GPS to pinpoint an exact location on a map. This incredible technology is available at a relatively small price.

GPS receivers become even more useful and convenient when paired with other mobile devices. A PDA is a popular consumer product that is easily used along with a GPS. PDAs have hard drive space to allow for map storage and colored screens to display maps, making them ideal technological GPS partners. When one takes into account the small size and weight of a compact PDA as compared to options such as laptop computers, it's easy to see why PDAs are the choice of today's tech-savvy travelers.

There is sometimes a problem with the integration of GPS receivers with PDAs. Connection between the two units is usually made using either conventional USB wires, or a CompactFlash (CF) CARD. The size of the GPS and PDA units together, and added to the added bulk of the CF card, can create a cumbersome traveler's tool. On the other hand, using USB wires is inconvenient and limits the overall usability of the navigation device. Many people, therefore, are turning to Bluetooth technology as the perfect traveler's companion.

Bluetooth to the Rescue

Bluetooth wireless technology has become the open standard for wireless communication. Using Bluetooth technology, two electronic devices are able to communicate with each other, sending a receiving signals and transferring data, from up to ten meters away. The beauty of this technology is that the information is transmitted completely wire-free.

Bluetooth GPS Receivers

A Bluetooth GPS receiver is an electronic device that uses wireless technology (namely, Bluetooth electronics) to transmit GPS data. The data is transmitted to a second wireless device, such as a PDA, that is capable of handling the technology. For example, a GPS receiver can wirelessly transmit data to a PDA handset, but only if they are both enabled with Bluetooth capabilities.

In addition to the ease and convenience of avoiding bulky CompactFlash cards and messy wires, there are other benefits to using Bluetooth technology with your GPS/PDA combination:

Flexible Freedom

Many drivers prefer to have the GPS mounted securely positioned, while keeping the PDA where it can be clearly viewed. Bluetooth allows this wire-free convenience. You are able to position your Bluetooth GPS receiver in a spot where it can clearly pick up signals from the sky, while your PDA is mounted on the dashboard in front of you. There are no wires to hamper your driving or obstruct your view.

CompactFlash Slot

If you are using Bluetooth technology to transmit data, you'll have no need to plug in a CompactFlash card. The empty CF slot, therefore, can be used as a storage space for software or maps to further optimize the results of your GPS.

There are other benefits to using GPS equipment. Many Bluetooth GPS receivers offer companion features, such as a "Points of Interest" (POI) database, route re-calculation function and pre-stored maps.

So, whether your travels are taking you to the next neighborhood or another country, don't leave home without your GPS and PDA bundled with Bluetooth technology.