Like my DVR section, today we see many products for GPS which have USB as either the connection interface or as the device itself. If you need to track – stroll through this category.
Track Your Laptop With USB GPS Device
The individual user wouldn’t need this, but a GPS dongle for the corporate world would have it’s benefits. For this reason, I-O Data released their first USB GPS key.
Now team this device up with Google Maps and any control freaked boss could track your where-a-bouts 24/7 [or is the new term 31]. Anyway, the USB GPS unit will cost you about $175 USD. That seems a bit steep as you could furnish your employee with a Blackberry or iPhone for $199, and have the same benefits with loads more features.
But, for those on-site job descriptions this would also fit the bill.
JPEG Geo Tracker – Never Get Lost Again
I’ve never given geo tracking my pictures much thought, not until I came across Coolest-Gadgets post about putting GPS to your JPEG images. This gadget would especially apply to those frequent travelers, or travelers who love getting lost in the details during family slide shows.
The picture geo tracker is a standalone device that allows a photographer to tag their photos with GPS location. The Photo Finder is pocket sized and has software which syncs GPS location data into the saved photo file without PC connection or editing. Coolest-Gadgets reports the Photo Finder only supports JPEG at the moment, with plans to support KML route files so you can not only geo tag and plot your pictures, but sync up your
GPS Keychain From Proporta – Verdict: Smaller Lighter Better
Back in September of 07 GetUSBinfo reported on the GPS Keychain from Proporta. Today I just got news from Hannah, their marketing guru, the new GPS 2000 Keychain is smaller, lighter and stronger.
Well, the new GPS keychain model weighs 8 grams less and connectivity strength that’ll reach through your handbag, purse, glovebox or just about any other place you could stash your keys.
Compatible with all mapping software Proporta can currently find along with state-of-the-art Bluetooth Technology, Proporta now challenges you to lose your keys.
For those with separation anxiety the GPS 2000 Keychain is ideal for connecting to your notebook, PDA or mobile phone, the receiver also comes with USB charger cable and car charger cable making it very portable for home or office use.
Bonus: The GPS 2000 Receiver is capable of connecting simultaneously to up to
Try and Lose Your Keys Now – GPS Keychain
Proporta is calling out a challenge. Try and lose your keys while clipped to their all new, world’s smallest GPS Keychain.
The Freedom Keychain GPS receiver is ideal for connecting to your…wait for it…keychain, notebook, PDA or mobile phone.
The Freedom GPS Keychain works will all popular mapping software such as Google maps and you can hone in via 20 satellite channel connection.
The tracking device is powered by Lithium Polymer batteries battery and working time is rated at 9 continuous hours.
USB charger cable and car charger are provided with the package. At $180 it’s a mighty expensive GPS keychain , but a priceless GPS tracker for your laptop.
Freedom GPS Keychain product page.
You Are Your Own Hotspot – New Franklin EVDO USB Modem
Franklin Wireless is churning out their smallest EVDO USB Modem so you can be your own hotspot – whether you’re hot or not.
EVDO or Evolution Data Only/Evolution Data Optimized provides fast wireless broadband (3G) internet service directly to your [I'm assuming] laptop [or any computer really]. All this access is now portable and available via Franklin’s USB CDU680 modem. You can take the internet with you and surf the web in your car, on the train, in the airport, at your Starwars technology convention or in your Luv Bus RV.
Some exceptional features too. 64MB flash drive – okay maybe THAT’S not impressive, built-in GPS, antenna port for external signal boost, pre-configured for PC/ Mac and swivel base USB connector.
Hyundai Integrates USB Port Into 2009 Elantra
Hyundai Motors will place a USB port into their 2009 Elantra car for stereo connectivity and support of the Microsoft automotive initiative Blue&Me.
Given the fact you’d find yourself in a Hyundai it’s not clear on how you can actually use the USB port, although it’s obvious the USB port would give you access to sync GPS devices, access the stereo for flash based music libraries and display contact information from your PDA on the upgraded nav station.
Poll Results: Is Your Primary Computer a Laptop?
I love my laptop. My wife loves her laptop. It’s powerful, widescreen and portable. What more could one ask for? (I asked for a 19″ widescreen for the office)
First things first: Congratulations to S. Wastgate of Florida for winning the Proporta Laptop Sleeve. Mr. Westgate visits GetUSB at least once a week, pockets a huge 8GB flash drive, works from his HP laptop and claims his GPS unit as his favorite gadget (I would too if lost in the Everglades). Thank you Proporta for sponsorship.
Okay – back on track: It seems about half our visitors are on the same page, “love the laptop.” Not that a PC has it’s merits and provides an environment for complete customization of hardware. With laptops getting much more powerful and wide screen viewing it’s an easy decision to go that route when making the next computer purchase. I recently saw an article where $100 laptops should be out before 2008 (educational tool). Crazy.
Be sure to visit GetUSB web pages and vote. Please remember to CLICK AND ENTER TO WIN if you’d like a chance and this rounds gift.
