GPS Information

Whether travelling for pleasure or working in the field, you can easily determine and report your location by adding wireless GPS positioning technology to your Bluetooth enabled pocket PC or other device. Adding the right antenna, Bluetooth GPS receiver and navigation software can transform your mobile device into a portable navigation system with turn-by-turn voice and visual prompts, as well as other useful features.

The Convenience of Using Bluetooth to Wirelessly add GPS Technology

GPS data is received by a Bluetooth GPS receiver and then sent wirelessly to a Bluetooth enabled mobile device such as a smartphone, PDA, or laptop. Of course your mobile device must also have GPS navigation software installed. The Bluetooth GPS receiver antennas are built in; but many receivers also have an external antenna port.

Using Bluetooth to wirelessly add GPS technology is convenient because it does not require multiple gadgets, messy cords and antennas, which actually make your mobile device less portable. Having no cables means you can keep the Bluetooth GPS receiver in your pocket or on your dashboard (as long as there is a direct sight line to the sky), freeing your hands to use your device or for driving. With Bluetooth GPS navigation, you can enjoy a real-time navigation system that can be used for vehicle tracking, marine navigation, street-level navigation, or topography; and if you have mobile internet access, you can even combine GPS with online maps.

When researching Bluetooth GPS receivers, you will want to consider size, weight, durability, battery life, and antenna strength. The built in antenna of some Bluetooth GPS receivers are low noise active antennas while others are patch antennas with a low noise amplifier (LNA). These built in antennas can vary in signal strength, and for this reason, an external antenna may be beneficial depending on how you plan to use your Bluetooth GPS navigation system. External GPS antennas can be used when stronger satellite signals are needed, and should be considered for situations such as hiking under heavy tree cover, to minimize temporary loss of signal when a vehicle is in motion or for use when the GPS receiver cannot be placed near a window in a vehicle. External antennas for Bluetooth GPS systems should be considered for use any time the receiver does not have a good view of the sky; and they can also be used to maintain the best possible accuracy by accessing the greatest number of satellites.