GPS Research

GPS Research – Node Explorer

Combine GPS, WiFi, a high-res colour display and audio output. Using GPS to get location data, the Linux-based(open course software), ruggedized unit communicates over WiFi with a nearby Node Server to present info on a location in real-time. Currently envisioned as being a tool for tourists.

This location-based media player, called the Explorer, changes your walk in the park into an interactive learning experience. Node, a British media company, created the Explorer for use in museums, historical sites, and other cultural centres and for cities tours. It uses global positioning system (GPS) technology to determine where someone is within a site and presents interactive information based on that location. The Explorer's presentations are interactive, and they can include guided tours, images, maps, videos and sound clips. In this article, we'll look at the Explorer's hardware and software and see how its use can affect the tourism industry.

It uses a Linux operating system, and it processes and stores interactive presentations using:

• An AMD Alchemy 800 mhz processor
• 256 MB of RAM
• At least 2 GB of storage space

It then plays them using a trans-reflective, high resolution touch screen and 3-D stereo headphones. Its most remarkable feature it is that it uses GPS "Fast Fix" technology to choose which items to play based the visitor's location within the site. It can also mark the visitor's location on an on-screen map. The Explorer unit is just one part of the wireless Node network, which also includes:

• Recharging and data collection docks
• A central server
• Web-enabled computers, which staff members use to access Node software

Ref: http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/node-explorer.htm

Ref: http://www.cityshownyc.com/

Ref: http://audioconexus.wordpress.com/gps-audiovideo-systems/