GPS for Dummies.pdf - Engineering Surveyor

114Part II: All About GPSthen upload the selected map data to your PDA. Because the maps are typicallystored in the PDA’s memory card, the more memory you have, the moremaps you’ll be able to use.Most PDA navigation software is designed for street navigation (see Figure 6-3for screenshot of a typical PDA street map program), and has features for gettingaround on roads and highways, including Autorouting: By inputting starting- and ending-point addresses, the mapprogram creates a route for you to follow to reach your destination. (Youusually can choose between fastest or shortest routes.) The route is outlinedon the map, and the program also provides turn-by-turn directionsto get to your destination. POI data: In addition to maps, most programs have extensive databasesof POIs (Points of Interest) information, including gas stations, restaurants,shopping locations, and other useful travel data. POIs appear asicons on the map that you can click to get more information. You canalso search for specific POIs by geographic location. Real-time tracking: When your PDA is connected to a GPS receiver, anarrow moves on the screen, giving you real-time information about yourcurrent position as well as displaying where you’ve been. Voice prompts: In addition to displaying turn-by-turn directions on thescreen, many programs provide voice prompts that tell you when tomake turns to reach your final destination. This is a nice safety featurebecause you can pay more attention to the road and less attention to thePDA screen.Figure 6-3:Map displayfromTeleTypeGPS PocketPC software.