9
GPS
– Orientation Mode
9.1
General description
The Trek was designed as an orientation aid to help you find your way. Trek locates your position
through the
Global Positioning System
(GPS) and relates it to digital maps of your area. You can
record your routes while walking them. The system then provides step by step instructions on how
to navigate them. With Trek, you can explore your surroundings and let the system announce street
information as they are encountered. If you wish to return to your point of origin, Trek is there to
provide turn instructions to retrace your steps. The system also allows you to record your landmarks
and reference points along a route. They will be announced automatically as you pass by.
After you charge up your Trek and first power it on, it is highly recommended you connect to
your home WIFI network if one is available. Connecting to WIFI ensures you are running the
latest version of the Trek software, and in addition allows the Trek software to download
the updated GPS satellite information prior to you going outdoors to navigate. Having that latest
GPS satellite info downloaded ahead of time will greatly speed up the GPS acquisition time when
you go outdoors.
Upon first booting the device it is not unusual for it to take the Trek up to 5 minutes to acquire
GPS satellite coverage. This is due to the device downloading the satellite data and learning
where you are on the globe. Once you receive the connection to the satellites, your position is
remembered for three additional days. This ensures that if you use your Trek regularly you will
consistently acquire satellite reception within 5 to 30 seconds on a regular basis.
It is recommended to frequently connect to WIFI to ensure the latest satellite data is updated.
Caution
:
The Trek system is designed as an orientation aid only and must not, at any time, be used
as the only aid while traveling. When using Trek, users should always be vigilant, stay alert and
pay attention to the immediate surrounding area. A conventional mobility aid like a cane or a guide
dog should also be used. Trek is not a mobility device. It is the user's responsibility to use this
device with caution. Do not use headphones while walking on the street.
9.1.1
What is GPS?
GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a navigation system that is made up of satellites orbiting the
Earth. Satellites send signals to the GPS receiver on your device. These signals are used to
measure your position. Trek uses this information and matches it to the maps installed on the Trek
internal memory.
The accuracy of GPS location information for commercial products such as Trek is currently more
or less 10 meters (30 feet). However, this can vary depending on a number of factors including:
- How clear a view of the sky does the GPS receiver have?
- Are there obstructions blocking signals such as tall buildings or overhangs?
- The position of the satellites being tracked: overhead, on the horizon or somewhere in between.
- How many satellites are being tracked?
- Is there a presence of cloud cover or overhead power lines?
- How fast is the user moving?
GPS travel is based on a line of travel, rather than knowing if you are on one side of the road or
the other. It is useful to think of yourself as traveling in the middle of the road, even though you
are not.
Note
:
The GPS is maintained and managed by the Government of the United States of America,
who is entirely responsible for its precision and maintenance. The system may, at any time, be
