Linux Unwired [Electronic resources] نسخه متنی

10.1 Uses of GPS

The function of GPS is
fairly straightforwardwith a GPS receiver, you can obtain your
positional information in the form of longitude, latitude, and
altitude. It is the way that you use this information that is
important. Some useful applications of GPS are described in the
following list:

Military use

As GPS was originally developed for military use, the U.S. Department
of Defense is the main user of the technology.

Location-Based Services (LBS)

GPS has been increasingly deployed in the commercial scene. LBS make
use of the knowledge of your precise location to provide
location-sensitive services. For example, you can use LBS to receive
a list of restaurants near your current location.

Navigation services

GPS is popularly used for navigational purposes, such as driving and
flying. A GPS-enabled PDA can help a driver navigate unfamiliar
cities. GPS is also widely used in the shipping industry, as well as
in airplane navigational systems. Courier companies, such as UPS and
FedEx, make extensive use of GPS in their delivery infrastructures.

Tracking

Using GPS to track the whereabouts of people or objects
is rapidly gaining acceptance. This is useful in the medical sector:
patients suffering from diseases such as Alzheimer's
can wear a GPS watch, and, when needed, they can press a panic button
to reveal their exact location to their family members.

Mapping

GPS is also popularly used in mapping software, allowing you to combine
a GPS receiver with mapping software to display your current
location. This is useful for travelers or explorers who need
navigational aids.