DSDN112 - Current Navigational Systems and Methods

Defining the term, "GPS", GPS stands for global positioning system, The system consists of about 20 satellites, each containing an atomic clock. Each satellite continually broadcasts a signal announcing the position of the satellite and the time according to its clock. This is done to great accuracy and with high precision.  A GPS receiver collects data from 3 or more satellites, and by measuring the differences in received times from different satellites can fix its position to an accuracy of a few feet.

 GPS and how it works, (na), retrieved from: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_GPS_stand_for_and_how_does_it_work

Currently in the world of digital navigation and navigation interfaces there are many brands and types of Global Positioning Systems or more commonly GPS devices, a majority of these branded devices(TomTom, Garmin) are for use within a vehicle, though hand held versions of these are also available. 


On the more personal side of navigation we have things like our cellphones which mostly these days have applications such as the Google maps.app on the iPhone iOS or Android device(s). These applications act like fully featured personal GPS systems that are mobile within or with out a vehicle and use cellphone towers in conjunction with satellite to pinpoint your exact location via the "Locational Services or Where-Am-I function(Varies on device).

The other side of the navigational coin, the non-digital or more physical navigation we have things such at Global Atlases, local maps, information boards, street signs and painted arrows even the old magnetic & non-magnetic compass.

The Pros and Cons of Auto-Navigational Systems.

• Digital Navigational Systems, Pros.
•  If a vehicle based GPS, you can locate a vehicle if stolen/lost via cellphone or an internet based service.

• Track your route no matter where you go, making it possible to retrace your steps in order to find your way back where you started.

• Some GPS devices and be used as Digital Compasses rather than telling you where to go.

•  Digital Navigational Systems, Cons.
•  Map data could be out-dated, due to new roads, buildings etc, which makes it near impossible to have accurate data at all times.

• Devices could have problems working inside buildings or dense forestry areas, in hindsight this could prove to be a problem in cities or in New Zealand in general, as we have areas were road is indeed covered in dense forest/vegetation.

• Batteries, even if rechargeable, could become a hassle, as the device is more likely to always be active depending on what type or brand it is.

• They do not recognize things in front of the user, rivers, mountains etc.

• Can prove to be costly.

•   Physical Navigational Systems, Pros.
• Physical Hard-copy of recent map data, usually correct, updated every so often/few years. Sold by most stores, can be inside information pamphlets.

• Most commonly used, road signs, navigation arrows, etc.

•   Physical Navigational Systems, Cons..
• Tear and ware over time.

• Layout could be difficult for those foreign with maps to read. 

• Harder to pin-point a direct route to location.

Images of Current Digital Navigational Interfaces.

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