GPS - NAVIGATION SYSTEM
GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS)
The BMW Navigation system operates in conjunction with the Global Positioning System
(GPS). Utilization of the GPS improves the accuracy and provides redundancy for the
Navigation system which also incorporates a dead reckoning system. The GPS was
designed by the US Government in the 1970s for military purposes. In recent years it has
been made available for civilian use.
There are 24 satellites equally divided among six orbits that are positioned 11,000 miles out
in space. Each satellite continuously emits a radio signal. The signals contain short
information messages including:
The exact time the message was broadcast.
Current latitude and longitude positions relative to the orbit.
24
On-Board Monitor and Navigation Systems