Myths about GPS systems dismissed
GPS and navigation systems have been around for over three decades now. While we do rely on these systems to guide us on a daily basis, not many of us are aware of how these navigation systems are designed and function.
It also doesn’t help when there is too much information being bombarded on the internet, with a number of myths that question the very functioning of these devices. Myths about GPS and navigation signals, the involvement of the government, the impact of weather on the signal strength and location accuracy among many others are creating a lot of confusion about this beneficial technology.
There are facts which state otherwise and dismiss these myths. Here are common myths about GPS technology dismissed for your reference:
GPS signals: A lot of people believe that GPS signals originate from independent signal stations set up along multiple routes and coverage areas to help you locate and map out your travel. However, GPS and navigation signals are transmitted through the vast network of satellites orbiting planet earth. The signal bounces off through multiple satellites to provide all the relevant data. Bottom line, these signals originate from above through satellites and not ground signal systems.
The military does not control GPS signals: While many may argue that the military can monitor and control GPS and navigation signals, it is only partially true. The military has space squadrons which can monitor GPS signals, but not control them. The government still maintains all regulations of proprietary GPS systems, which is a taxpayer-funded program.
The government can track your movements: This is another myth! The basic systems are just designed to receive signals and not transmit your location back accurately. Most vehicles that have proprietary GPS and navigation systems are designed to receive satellite signals to pinpoint your location and navigate.
Weather can affect signals: Satellite TV can get affected due to bad weather owing to the inherent design of these signals. GPS, however, it does not get affected by bad weather. As long as the GPS systems are free of any obstruction which will block the signal strength, there is no reason to be worried about catching a signal on the go. Location accuracy also will not get affected when you are outside, regardless of the weather.
GPS is accurate: This is not so much as a myth, but a technical error. While most GPS and navigation systems are accurate to the letter, this will entirely depend on your software. Updated software and apps for that matter will provide an accurate location, but this does not necessarily mean the system is flawed. Proprietary systems work well when the software is updated from time to time.
Additional apps mess up the system: Traditional GPS had only one job, provide location accurately and help navigate through places. Modern-day GPS systems installed in premium automobiles have a bulk of apps installed and integrated with the system, which many people cite as the reason for GPS not working sometimes. Building identifiers, real-time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions are all just useful add-ons in your proprietary system and do not necessarily mess with the signal.
Military GPS versus Civilian GPS: Unlike the myth which is being propagated to mislead people, there is no such thing as military GPS and civilian GPS. Both happen to receive the same signals from orbiting satellites, with the quality and type of equipment used being the only distinguishing factor. The bandwidth is another factor which differentiates these two signals.
One of the most popular manufacturers of GPS and navigation devices is Garmin, both for civilian and military purposes.
-
A detailed guide to finding the best CD ratesRead More...In simple terms, “CD rate” is defined as the interest percent yield on a certificate of deposit. Essentially a Certificate of Deposit is a savings deposit for a fixed period of which interest is earned by the bearer. A Certificate of Deposit (CD) is offered by any bank where you have opened a savings account. The fixed period can be a short or long term, and you will face a penalty if you withdraw your money before the term expires. The CD rate offered by a bank decides what you will yield from your CD investment. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to get the best CD rates.
Step 1: Use comparison websites such as Bankrate or Nerd Wallet to get the best CD rates. Online banks tend to offer competitive CD rates as they have lesser overhead costs as compared to traditional financial institutions.
Step 2: Invest for longer terms as long-term CDs tend to have higher interest rates. However, this also means that you cannot withdraw your money for long periods of time.
Step 3. Consider CD laddering. By opening multiple long term CDs with at least one CD maturing every year, you will successfully receive higher yields and reduce the chances of paying withdrawal penalties.
Step 4: Keep an eye out for special deals. Banks to cut through competition may offer special CD rates. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff at your bank if they are running any offers.
Step 5: Look at other CD variations such as liquid and bump-up CDs. These may be riskier than traditional CDs, but they are ideal for time periods of rising rates. In the case of liquid CD, you will not have to pay the penalty if you withdraw your money before the term expires. However, you will have to cover up this cost with lower interest rates. In the case of a bump-up CD, you can switch to another CD with the same term but a better interest rate when your bank offers it. You can, however, make the switch only once.
-
Ram 1500: Your trustworthy companionRead More...Having a tough time with your pickup truck and looking for something to ease your work up, but don’t know what to choose? We got you covered here. With roomy cabs, adjustable suspension and easy to operate touch screens, the 2016 Ram 1500 has become your rescuer here.
The 2016 Ram 1500 has a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine with an EPA rating of 20/29 mpg city/highway. It delivers 420 pound-feet of trailer-pulling torques. Some other changes include the rugged Ram Rebel and the luxurious Ram Laramie Limited. Otherwise, the truck is same and unique as ever. With these minimal innovative changes, the 2016 Ram 1500 has achieved the best yet version of itself.
Now, not everyone wants the bed area to be unusually large. Just like not everyone is in need of a large cab area. Ram 1500 comes with three options, the regular cab, Quad Cab, and crew cab. The names have pretty much made it clear. Length of these beds ranges includes 6’, 4’, 5’ and 7’ on Crew Cab and Quad Cab models. For regular cabs, it goes up to a full 8’.
These interiors of these user-friendly trucks have been designed with great care. Not only are the designs and fabrics used luxurious, but the area is extremely comfortable as well. You simply can’t resist the comfort that this truck provides. Apart from the convenience, driving is such a smooth experience that you can’t stop being pleased.
Now, some of you may need some huge engines to fulfill the need to travel long distances, while the need of the others may not be the same. So, you’ve got choices varying from a 3.0-liter engine to a huge 5.7-liter one. So, you can save expenses if you don’t need a very big engine.
It goes without saying that 2016 Ram 1500 gives a tough competition to its rival trucks. Still, you could choose it over others for any reasons you like. May the reason be the comfort, the luxury or just the feel-good thing.
