Mormon Online » GPS

See the World

Craig — Mon, 10 May 2010 01:49:13 +0000

Ever wanted to see Hawaii, Alaska, London, Paris, or where your best friend lives? Well, now you can and do it all in one evening? How? With the online maps that are available.

There are some incredible resources available to see some very detailed views of places on earth. Some of them are:

http://earth.google.com/

http://www.bing.com/maps/

http://www.mapquest.com/

http://maps.yahoo.com/

http://www.openstreetmap.org/

The fun really starts when you look at the linked photos, street views, and satellite shots. You can really get a decent idea of what things look like and where things are located.

These maps have also proved useful when disasters have struck certain locations to help people identify the damage that has occurred. Some archaeologists have also found the maps useful to decide where to dig and where past civilizations might have been located.

All in all, it’s a fun and educational way to spend an evening. Have fun with it and explore the potential ways to use it for good.

Workout Buddy

Craig — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:06:49 +0000

GPS devices allow you to track your workout and figure out how long you went, what pace, how far, elevation change, etc. These logs can then be uploaded online, evaluated to see how good you did, and compared with previous workouts.

There are tons of different options for hardware and software. iPhone users love to use the Nike+ sensor. Android phone users enjoy software such as Buddy Runner or Cardio Trainer. Then there are lots of GPS specific devices such as the Garmin Forerunner 305.

In addition to all of the above devices you have the Nintendo Wii. The Wii fit game will let you get your workout in while having fun. It will also keep track of your weight and whether you’re losing or gaining. Other games like the Active Life Outdoor Challenge also try to help you to get that workout in.

With all of the great options available there is no excuse for not getting in a good workout. Now if we can just get these devices to hide the donuts…

Global Positioning System (GPS)

Craig — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 14:49:25 +0000

I was travelling along the freeway minding my own business when suddenly the traffic came to a dead stop. I was headed for the airport to get my young niece who was travelling by herself to come visit us. I knew I was in trouble when I saw all the trucker guys mulling around the road outside of their trucks. I didn’t want to be late to the airport because my niece would have to be alone in an unfamiliar place and wonder where her ride was. GPS to the rescue. I plugged in my destination and told it to avoid the plugged road. Fortunately I was right by an exit and I took it. The GPS routed me on a couple of back roads and I made it to the airport on time. I haven’t needed to use a GPS all the time but when I’m in a pinch, it is a wonderful tool.