Where to get the local GPS maps wor?!

Hmm, I think everyone should be quite familiar with the GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation tool already. "GPS" should be something that can navigate us to a place accurately. Last time, whenever I heard about GPS, I can imagine about having a PDA alike tool with LCD screen in my hand. When i look into the screen i can see my own location and the tool can shows me the way the location I intended.

However, when i purchased my first GPS receiver (HOLUX brand, a simple one)... I just found out that, i actually need a sophisticated local digital map for the GPS receiver, and also a navigation software for it to work as a navigation tool. Without a valid digital map, and navigation software, i just can only see my own location in Longitude & Latitude. In fact, THE MAP IS REAL EXPENSIVE!!! Only then i know... GPS receiver is just a tool that can tell your own location accurately >_< (But, i still can cope to find some free GPS maps online)

Recently, i tried on the new launch N95, which have built-in GPS receiver, it comes with Singapore and Klang Valley maps (smart2go Nokia maps). Map is free, but need to pay extra for the navigation function (-_-!!). Hmm, just have a feel on it at the shop, never test it on the road, so cannot comment on the accuracy (++ It is still at the cost of RM3000 ++ VERY EXPENSIVE!!) . In fact, I think it is quite difficult to get other free digital GPS maps that work on Symbian OS.

Haiz....

Getting Confuse with GPRS and GPS?

A lot of people get confused with GPRS (General Package Radio Service) and GPS (Global Positioning System). They even think that GPRS = GPS!

GPRS is actually a mobile data service available to users of GSM network mobile phone. GPRS provides moderate data transfer rate, which enable MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), Push-To-Talk over cellular, instant messaging, internet application for smart devices, Point-to-Point service, SMS (short Message Service), and etc future enhancements.

While, GPS is a navigation system developed by United State Department of Defence. GPS is a space-based navigation system, which using the satellites' signal to aid the navigation around the world. As it is free for civilian use, the navigation data can be downloaded anywhere (of course without obstacles) and anytime by using simple GPS receiver. Magallen and Garmin are two of the popuplar GPS receiver manufacturers.

Nowadays, mobile phones or smart phones keen to include GPS services. For example, Nokia N95 and Doppod 900.