History of Computers - GPS
The GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System, is a series of satellites which allow devices on earth to obtain a precise location. The first system, called TRANSIT, was initially developed in 1959 by the John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, and the system was declared operational in 1962. The GPS system began as a system for the military, but in 1967 the TRANSIT system was made available to the public [1].
Contents
Overview
The GPS works by having satellites in orbit broadcast messages which contain the time it was broadcasted. The handheld device obtains this information from four satellites, which it then can use to determine the distance away from the satellites by the time it takes for the message to travel. Using the distances, the precise location of the handheld device can be found[2]. Similar to just about every other electronic device, GPS tracking devices are becoming smaller and smaller with each advancement in technology. With the decreased sizes of GPS trackers, consumers are able to track smaller devices such as electronics like cameras and laptops. [3]
[4]Significance
The Global Positioning System has impacted both civilian and military ways of life. It has assisted rescue operations, and it has led to new activities such as geocaching. The military also uses GPS systems for missile and bomb guidance. In addition, GPS technology has drastically improved surveying[5]. GPS technology has influenced many aspects of today's developing society. Now gps tracking chips can be in almost every electronic device. People can now track lost or stolen items all around the world.
References
- ↑ http://support.radioshack.com/support_tutorials/gps/gps_tmline.htm
- ↑ http://www.nasm.si.edu/gps/work.html
- ↑ http://trackingtheworld.com/blog/micro-gps-tracking-device-on-electronics-resolves-theft/
- ↑ Diagram
- ↑ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Positioning_System#Applications
