Bluetooth GPS Receiver
Thanks to Bluetooth technology, PDA users can now easily use their handheld devices for GPS (Global Positioning System), meaning they don't have to get lost on the highway on the way to that business meeting anymore. In the past, you could turn your PDA into a navigator, but it required bulky (and costly) appendages.
Below are some popular brands (as of now):
- Belkin Bluetooth GPS compact receiver (4 out of 5 stars, $300): This device is praised for its long battery life, durable receiver and easy-to-use software. However, the device is expensive, the maps require a lot of memory and you have to purchase your own mounting hardware.
- DeLorme Earthmate GPS (4 stars, $320): Gets good marks for its receiver, it's price and the fact that it can be easily mounted or attached to the belt. However, points are docked for its bulkiness and outdated style.
- Pharos Pocket GPS Navigator with Bluetooth (4 stars, $197): Wins in both the style and receiver category and comes with mounting hardware. Unfortunately, it lacks a power adapter and route-making capabilities on the PC. In addition, its Points of Interest (POI) database is described as meager, and the battery life received tepid comments.
- TeleType GPS Bluetooth Receiver (4 stars, $189): With a strong receiver, map detail you can customize, voice activation, magnetic mounting and a reasonable price, the only criticism by editors is that it's not user friendly enough and "unintuitive." (For those who believe true navigation comes from the gut, this could be a problem ... )
- Dell GPS Navigation System 3.5 stars, $250) This puppy comes with windshield mounting hardware and charger and is praised for its reception. It's also described as lacking in fancy map features and bulky.
- HP iPaq Navigation system (3.5 stars, $100 to $230): This package includes a charger, mounting (on vent) and solid reception. It is criticized as a bit overpriced, bulky and not as advanced as some of its Bluetooth counterparts.
GPS technology was developed by the U.S.Department of Defense in the 1970s. By having satellites in space that transmitted signals to stations on Earth that acted as receivers, the military could determine the speed and direction of moving objects. Nowadays, the novelty is available to us Average Joes, and come in handy for those with no direction, outdoor adventurers and business travelers.
In 1998, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of five companies formed with the objective to make high-tech devices more compatible. The word Bluetooth actually started out as a code name and references a 10th century Scandinavian king who united various tribes into one kingdom. This mirrors how Bluethooth brought together collaboration between industries, such as the computer, mobile phone and automotive fields.
By the end of its founding year, Bluetooth welcomed its 400th member, and they win "Best of Show Technology Award" at COMDEX the following year. In 2000, Bluetooth develops its first mobile phone, PC, integration chip and headset and develops mouse, laptop and USB dongle prototypes. The SIG became a private trade association in 2001, and introduced to the world its first laptop , printer and hands-free car set. Keyboard and mouse combos, GPS receivers and MP3s followed in 2002, and the first digital camera arrived in 2003. At this point, Bluetooth products reached 500 in number and soon reach an installation reach of 250 million devices, surpassing a shipment rate of 3 million per week. Bluetooth opened a headquarters in Bellevue, Wa. in 2005/ Bluetooth celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2008, reaching 2 billion in items sold in a decade, a feat unsurpassed in the wireless field. Also in this year, Bluetooth welcomed its 10,000th member.
