Talking GPS Systems
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites. The system works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. Accuracy to a person's exact location is somewhere in the region of ten metres.
These satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user's exact location. Once the user's position has been determined, the GPS unit can calculate location, speed, bearing, track, trip distance, distance to destination, and more which is then displayed on the units' electronic map.
GPS receivers in general are not accessible by individuals who are blind or vision impaired. Several companies have developed software which uses their own equipment to access the map information displayed on a GPS receiver and speaks or displays the information in braille.
Users can receive information about the relative positions of nearby points of interest. The software can tell the user which direction to go to reach a target location and identify points of interest along the way. Users can program personalised travel routes and favorite spots, as well as use million's of points of interest supplied with the system. Electronic maps are available for Australia and other countries around the world.
As a person who is blind or vision impaired needs to purchase not only the GPS receiver, but also the software to get the information from the GPS receiver, these talking GPS systems are relatively expensive.
Several accessible GPS systems are available in Australia. All of these systems require not only the GPS receiver, but an accessible portable notetaker on which the special GPS software runs.
Prices from $200.
Common GPS systems
BrailleNote GPS
- Requires VoiceNote or BrailleNote.
- Will include the GPS receiver.
- Available from Vision Australia Equipment Solutions (1300 84 74 66) or Humanware.
Street Talk
- Requires the Pac mate and does not include the GPS receiver.
- Available from Quantum Technology
Trekker
- Includes GPS reciever.
- Available from Vision Australia Equipment Solutions (1300 84 74 66) or Humanware.
Mobile GEO
- Available from Optek Systems.
Note
This product listing does not constitute an endorsement of these products by Vision Australia. Prices are approximates only.
For further details phone Vision Australia on 1300 84 74 66.
This page last updated: 26 June 2009