A Technical Seminar Report On

“GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING”

Submitted to

ANNAMACHARYA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCES

in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
In
COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Submitted by

20AK5A0510 - AKBAR SHAIK

Under the esteemed guidance of

Mrs. H. Teja, M. Tech., (Ph.D.)

Assistant Professor

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

ANNAMACHARYA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCES
(AUTONOMOUS)
Venkatapuram(V), Karakambadi (Po), Renigunta(M), Tirupati-517520, A.P.

2019-2023
 CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Seminar report entitled
“GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING”
is the bonafied work carried out by

AKBAR SHAIK
(20AK5A0510)

Submitted towards the Partial Fulfillment of The Requirements for The

Award of The Degree of Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and
Engineering from Annamacharya Institute of Technology and Sciences,
Tirupati, during the year 2022 – 2023.

This Work has been carried Out Under My guidance.

Seminar In charge: Head of the Department:

Mrs. H. Teja, M. Tech., (Ph.D.) Mr. B. Ramana Reddy, M. Tech., (Ph.D.)
Asst. Professor, Asst. Professor & HOD,
Dept of CSE, Dept of CSE,
AITS – TIRUPATI AITS - TIRUPATI
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The satisfaction that accompanies the successful completion of the task would be put incomplete without
the mention of the people who made it possible, whose constant guidance and encouragement crown all
the efforts with success.
We avail this opportunity to express our deep sense of gratitude and hearty thanks to Mr.
C. GANGI REDDY, Hon’ble Secretary of AITS-Tirupati, for providing congenial atmosphere and
encouragement.
We show gratitude to Dr. C. NADHAMUNI REDDY, Principal for having provided all
the facilities and support.

We would like to thank Mr. B. RAMANA REDDY, Assistant Professor & HOD, Computer
Science and Engineering for encouragement at various levels of our Project.

We thankful to our guide Mrs. H. TEJA, Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering
for her sustained inspiring guidance and cooperation throughout the process of this project. Her wise
counsel and suggestions were invaluable.
We express our deep sense of gratitude and thanks to all the Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff of our
college who stood with us during the project and helped us to make it a successful venture.
We place highest regards to our Parents, Friends and Well-wishers who helped a lot in making the
report of this Technical Seminar.

AKBAR SHAIK
20AK5A0510
 PREFACE
I have made this report on the topic “GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING”; I have
tried my best to elucidate all the relevant detail to the topic to be included in the report.
While in the beginning I have tried to give a general view aboutthis topic.

My efforts and wholehearted co-corporation of each and every one has ended on a
successful note. I express my sincere gratitude to guides Mrs. H. Teja, who assisting me
throughout the preparation of this topic. I thank her for providing me the reinforcement,
confidence and most importantly the track for the topic whenever I needed it.
 ABSTRACT

GPS for mountaineering (Global Positioning System for mountaineering) is also known as GPS for
mountain climbing. It will be taking an in-depth look at the GPS for mountaineering and how it works. we
are using and depending on the GPS more and more. Come and learn what is going on behind the map
screen. With this knowledge you will better understand how to use this powerful tool that we all interact
with in mountain climbing. We will cover the different GPS types that are out there, as well as how best to
use the GPS. This is important for anyone that is using a GPS for mountaineering as their primary navigation
tool for their challenges. There are three types of mountains climbing: ice climbing, trail climbing, and rock
climbing. Every challenge and climatic situation using various GPS tools. For Ice climbing POI Loader is
a software for computer that lets you upload customized Points of Interest (POIs) to the device. With the
help of POI Loader, you can update your compatible Garmin GPS with the latest POIs, including safety
camera locations, and tourist destinations. Gaia GPS for trail climbing is a tool, to mark approaches to new
or lesser-known crags or boulders for friends, and to share them with other climbers or with land managers
in order to route climbers to the best, most sustainable approach to the cliffs. For the rock-climbing rock
formation to show the span of walls that contain the climbs. GPS data is accurate, it’s used as a reference
for everything else. We can make detailed navigation notations when building the ma

KEYWORDS: GPS, Mountaineering, Climbing, Navigation, Software, Safety, Destination

Signature of Technical Seminar In charge: Signature of HOD

 CONTENTS

CHAPTER NO NAME OF THE CHAPTER PAGE NO

CHAPTER – 1 INTRODUCTION TO GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING 1
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 How to choose and use a GPS 2
1.3 Objective 3
CHAPTER – 2 WHAT IS GPS 4
2.1 Space segment 4
2.2 Control segment 5
2.3 User segment 7
CHAPTER – 3 TYPES OF MOUNTAINEERING 7
3.1 Expedition style 7
3.2 Alpine style 7

CHAPTER – 4 SYSTEM DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE 11

4.1 Overall system architecture 11
4.2 Face detection 13
4.3 Users’ selective attention 13
4.4 Users’ intention recognition 14
4.5 Speech recognition 14
4.6 Information retrieval by clue 15
4.7 Information presentation 16
4.8 Prototype hardware platform implementation 16
CHAPTER – 5 ADVANTAGES OF HUMAN AUMENTATION 17
CHAPTER – 6 RISKS OF HUMNA AUGMENTATION 18
CHAPTER – 7 CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK 19
CHAPTER – 8 REFERENCE LINKS 20
 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig. No Figure Name Page No

1 Smart Glasses 8

2 The Hiring Power Of AI 10

3 Overall Architecture Of The

Human Augmented Cognition System. 11

4 Prototype Platform Of The

Human Augmented Cognition System. 12
 1. INTRODUCTION TO GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING

1.1 : Introduction

In the mountains not all the paths are marked, sometimes it is difficult to follow the signs that have
disappeared over time. That is why it is important to carry a device that shows you the route to the top at
all times. GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING is a spaced based radio positioning system, which provide
suitably equipped user with highly accurate position, velocity and time data. GPS provide specially coded
signals that can be processed in a GPS receiver. Use a compact and lightweight GPS with a touch screen
so you can mark waypoints at the most important places on your itinerary (forest, fountain, lake,
bridge...). Turn hiking or geocaching into something more! If you are one of those who take risks, always
do it safely. Even if you are alone and in the other part of the world, remember that the map is your
reference in unknown terrain. Orient yourself to the highest peaks using your device's cartography.
Choose a GPS with enough hours of battery life and explore for hours without needing to recharge it on
your hiking or mountaineering outings. Ready for adventure!
Reach the highest peaks with the certainty of stepping on the right path. Trust the waypoints that your
GPS marks, they will take you to the top. No matter how hard the ascent is, don't forget to monitor your
vital signs, you must have them under control at all times. Once home, relive your adventure and start
planning your next peak. Navigation is an essential feature of any hiking trip and, while you should
certainly master the old-fashioned skills of working with a map and compass, modern hand-
help GPS systems, which no longer cost and arm and a leg, can also come in very handy. The Global
Positioning System (GPS) is fast becoming very much an everyday navigational tool and is commonly
seen fitted into cars these days. It is also now available in a simple hand-held form, similar in size to
many cell phones. A GPS unit can be loaded with map data for just about any area of the world and, by
using a series or satellites, it can pinpoint your position with remarkable accuracy. Indeed, many units
can not only indicate your position on the ground, but can also provide you with an altitude reading. Like
most things, GPS units are priced at a reasonably low level for a basic unit which will simply give you
your latitude and longitude, to extremely expensive units which are packed with more features than the
average hiker could ever possibly use. For this reason, it's important that you decide just exactly how you
want to use a GPS unit before you go shopping. The world's leading manufacturer of GPS is Garmin and
you will certainly find a range of Garmin units on sale in just about every outlet, including of course
outlets online. There are also other brands of course and, whichever brand you choose, you'll find a
bewildering range options available in different shapes and sizes.
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For the hiker it's particular worthy of note that some models are waterproof, which can come in very
handy if you're likely to be crossing rivers and lakes or if you get caught out in a storm. Different models
also offer different numbers of waypoints. A 'waypoint' is simply another term for terrestrial coordinates
such as latitude, longitude and altitude. For most hikers these basic waypoints will be

Fig 1: GPS for Mountaineering

sufficient but, if you're into gadgets, you might like to check out the variety of other waypoints that can
be used to indicate your position on the ground. You will find that when talking about GPS units the term
'waypoint' is also used to describe the number of landmarks shown on the display. This will vary
depending on the map that is loaded into the unit and the amount of information displayed can be both
good and bad as far as the hiker is concerned. While it might seem that 'the more information the better',
too much information can simply become confusing and actually make the job of navigation more
difficult rather than easier.

1.2. How to choose and use a GPS

Once revolutionary, GPS technology is in everything from drones to dog collars now. Nonetheless, a
handheld GPS receiver remains a valuable outdoor tool for hikers and other backcountry explorers. A
GPS can give you vital information about where you are, where you’ve been and where you want to
go. GPS units for vehicle navigation and fitness tracking are not covered here, nor are GPS-enabled
satellite messengers that offer navigation features. Innovation in phone technology is rapidly mimicking
traditional GPS handhelds. A dedicated outdoor GPS unit, though, offers key advantages:

• Much more rugged and water resistant

• Field-replaceable batteries
• Superior satellite reception in remote places
• Robust features developed specifically for outdoor use

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If you find exhaustive lists of GPS specs and features to be a little daunting, you can simplify your
decision by considering three key areas:
Size of unit vs. size of screen. As screen size increases, so does the size and weight of a unit. Deciding
where you are on the low-weight to large-screen spectrum is a good first step. Interface preference: If
you can’t imagine not having a touch screen, your choices narrow further. For winter activities consider
a unit solely controlled by buttons because it’s easier to use while wearing gloves.
Advanced features: More expensive units offer features like a barometer, an electronic compass and
wireless transmission. If these capabilities are important to you, that also narrows your final choices.

1.3. Objective
GPS handsets allow users to safely traverse trails with the confidence of knowing precisely where they
are at all times, as well as how to return to their starting point. One of the benefits is the ability to record
and return to waypoints.

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 2. WHAT IS GPS

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a U.S.-owned utility that provides users with positioning,
navigation, and timing (PNT) services. This system consists of three segments: the space segment, the
control segment, and the user segment. The U.S. Space Force develops, maintains, and operates the
space and control segments.

Fig 2: GPS representation

2.1: SPACE SEGMENT

GPS space segment consists of a constellation of satellites transmitting radio signals to users. The United
States is committed to maintaining the availability of at least 24 operational GPS satellites, 95% of the
time. To ensure this commitment, the U.S. Space Force has been flying 31 operational GPS satellites
for well over a decade. The satellites in the GPS constellation are arranged into six equally-spaced orbital
planes surrounding the Earth.

Fig 3: Space segment by GPS

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Each plane contains four "slots" occupied by baseline satellites. This 24-slot arrangement ensures users
can view at least four satellites from virtually any point on the planet. The Space Force normally flies
more than 24 GPS satellites to maintain coverage whenever the baseline satellites are serviced or
decommissioned. The extra satellites may increase GPS performance but are not considered part of the
core constellation.

2.2: Control Segment

GPS control segment consists of a global network of ground facilities that track the GPS satellites,
monitor their transmissions, perform analyses, and send commands and data to the constellation. The
current Operational Control Segment (OCS) includes a master control station, an alternate master
control station, 11 command and control antennas, and 16 monitoring sites. The locations of these
facilities are shown in the map above. The GPS constellation delivers consistently high performance
thanks to the dedicated efforts of its operators — the men and women of the U.S. Air Force's 2nd Space
Operations Squadron (2SOPS) and the Air Force Reserve's 19th Space Operations Squadron (19SOPS)
at Schiever Space Force Base, Colorado. Together, 2SOPS and 19SOPS — nicknamed Team Blackjack
— keep the GPS satellites flying on a 24/7 basis, with continuous availability and high accuracy for
billions of civilian and military users.

Fig 4: Control segment by GPS

As part of the GPS modernization program, the Air Force has continuously upgraded the GPS control
segment for many years. The ground upgrades are necessary to command and control the newer GPS
satellites and to enhance cybersecurity.

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Control Segment Elements:

▪ Track GPS satellites as they pass overhead

▪ Collect navigation signals, range/carrier measurements, and atmospheric data

▪ Feed observations to the master control station

▪ Utilize sophisticated GPS receivers

▪ Provide global coverage via 16 sites: 6 from the Air Force

▪ Provides command and control of the GPS constellation

▪ Uses global monitor station data to compute the precise locations of the satellites

▪ Generates navigation messages for upload to the satellites

▪ Monitors satellite broadcasts and system integrity to ensure constellation health and accuracy

▪ Performs satellite maintenance and anomaly resolution, including repositioning satellites to

maintain optimal constellation

▪ Currently uses separate systems (AEP & LADO) to control operational and non-operational
satellites

▪ Backed up by a fully operational alternate master control station

▪ Send commands, navigation data uploads, and processor program loads to the satellites

▪ Collect telemetry

▪ Communicate via S-band and perform S-band ranging to provide anomaly resolution and early
orbit support

▪ Consist of 4 dedicated GPS ground antennas plus 7 Air Force Satellite Control Network
(AFSCN) remote tracking stations

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 2.3: User segment

Like the Internet, GPS is an essential element of the global information infrastructure. The free, open,
and dependable nature of GPS has led to the development of hundreds of applications affecting every
aspect of modern life. GPS technology is now in everything from cell phones and wristwatches to
bulldozers, shipping containers, and ATM's. GPS boosts productivity across a wide swath of the
economy, to include farming, construction, mining, surveying, package delivery, and logistical supply
chain management. Major communications networks, banking systems, financial markets, and power
grids depend heavily on GPS for precise time synchronization. Some wireless services cannot operate
without it. GPS saves lives by preventing transportation accidents, aiding search and rescue efforts, and
speeding the delivery of emergency services and disaster relief.

Fig 5: User segment by GPS

GPS is vital to the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) that will enhance flight safety
while increasing airspace capacity. GPS also advances scientific aims such as weather forecasting,
earthquake monitoring, and environmental protection. Finally, GPS remains critical to U.S. national
security, and its applications are integrated into virtually every facet of U.S. military operations. Nearly
all new military assets -- from vehicles to munitions -- come equipped with GPS. This website describes
just a tiny sample of existing GPS applications. New uses of GPS are invented every day and are limited
only by the human imagination.

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 3. TYPES OF MOUNTAINEERS

3.1 : Mountaineering vs Climbing

The terms “climbing” and “mountaineering” are often used interchangeably, or in tandem; you’re
going mountaineering, which means you’re going to climb a mountain. One way to think about this
issue with syntax is to look at mountaineering as the technical side of mountain climbing. Increasingly,
however, when you hear the term “climbing” it’s in reference to rock climbing specifically, as opposed
to mountaineering. And while mountaineering can certainly incorporate elements or even stretches of
true rock climbing, the sports are absolutely different. Mountaineering is significantly older, requires a
broader skillset, and pits humans against weather and the elements far more often than rock climbing. Ice
climbing is another specific form of mountain climbing that, again, mountaineering often encompasses.
It uses tools and techniques more in line with mountaineering than rock climbing (think crampons and
ice tools) but we still consider it more of a sport within mountaineering than a type of mountaineering
itself. If a route requires both ice and rock climbing, it’s considered to be “mixed.”

3.2 : Types of Mountaineering

3.2.1: Expedition Style

When you think of the “golden age” of mountaineering, what comes to mind? For us, it’s usually
colonial elites with mile-long mule trains making their way into un-westernized mountain ranges in an
attempt to “conquer” a peak.

Fig 6: Expedition style

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This was the birth of expedition mountaineering, a style that approached mountain climbing with the
same military-like structure as many other exploratory ventures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries;
in fact, the parallels between military operations and expedition mountaineering run so deep that it is
often called “siege style” mountaineering instead. While your average climber is no longer an Oxford-
educated elite with the blessing of the crown, many of the same principles established in the golden age
of mountaineering are still in play today. Some of these tried-and-true principles include establishing
sequences of camps, hiring local porters to carry supplies, and setting aside months to methodically
acclimatize, put routes in place, and eventually push for the summit. We still see this style used on many
of the world's least accessible mountains, such as Everest, Denali, and K2.
Expedition style (or "siege" style) refers to mountaineering which involves setting up a fixed line of
stocked camps on the mountain which can be accessed at one's leisure, as opposed to Alpine style where
one carries all of one's food, shelter, equipment etc. as one climbs. Expedition style also incorporates
the use of fixed ropes, and climbers (and the porters they frequently employ) will travel up and down
the route several times to fix ropes and set up camps, while Alpine style eschews fixed ropes, porters,
and camps, and climbers usually only climb the route once in a continuous push.[1] Expedition style was
the type of climbing Sir Edmund Hillary and Tensing Norgay used in the first summitting of Mount
Everest.

3.2.2: Alpine style

In anthropology, “schizogenesis” refers to a society adapting certain cultural values in direct opposition
to values of their neighbours that they dislike. That is exactly how alpine-style mountaineering was born.
In the 1970s, there was a philosophical pushback (aided by the counter-culture movement in the United
States) against the “conqueror” motivations behind mountaineering.

Fig 7: Alpine style

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Alpinists found the siege-style tactics of expedition mountaineering to be inefficient and out of touch
with nature, believing the best way to climb a mountain was fast, light, and self-supported.
Whereas expedition-style mountaineering relies on many human-centric advantages such as stocked
camps, fixed routes, and local porters, alpinists prefer to swap those comforts for a fast and light
approach, getting up and down the mountain as quickly as possible. While this exposes them to higher
risk when weather rolls in, it also means they spend less time exposed to objective dangers such as rock
and icefall.
The benefits of alpine style include spending much less time on the route, thereby reducing objective
dangers such as avalanches or blizzards. This can be a major factor on routes with ice fields full of
blocks of ice hundreds of feet tall which could fall at any time. Snow and icy conditions often change
over the course of a day forcing climbing parties to climb in the early hours before the sun melts the
snow or ice making it unsuitable and more susceptible to avalanche. This tendency to climb in the
morning has led to the term "Alpine Start". An "Alpine Start" is an early start that ranges from starting
at 11:00pm of the night before on long routes, to not long before sunrise for shorter routes or faster
parties. An "Alpine Start" must begin in the dark.

So, which is better?

It’s a loaded question, and one we don’t plan on answering here. Many consider alpine-style
mountaineering to be a “purer” form of mountain climbing, pitting man against nature without the
benefits of established camps and supply trains. Then again, others see alpinists as reckless climbers
who pointlessly endanger themselves by not utilizing the many advantages we’ve developed as humans
over the last few hundred years.
The way we see it, as long as you’re getting above treeline and experiencing the beauty, physical
exertion, and endlessly addicting satisfaction of summiting, you’re a mountaineer.

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 4. DIFFERENT DEVICES WITH GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING

4.1: Purpose of GPS for Mountaineering

Everyone has used a GPS before; just think of all the times when you didn’t know the way to a restaurant
or shop, or when you wanted to find the quickest way to a friend's house. GPS is primarily a satellite
tracking system, which means that you can pinpoint your position wherever you are. GPS is a tool that
allows you to find your way around and take the right route to your destination. Given its nature, GPS is a
tool that is not only useful for everyday situations, but also for trekking, an activity where orientation is
fundamental and where the risk of getting lost is greater given that you often walk along unknown, remote
and unfrequented paths.

System description:
GPS has three ‘segments’:
The space segment now consists of 28 satellites, each in its own orbit about 11,000 nautical miles above
the Earth.
The user segment consists of receivers, which you can hold in your hand or mount in your car.
The control segment consists of ground stations (five of them, located around the world) that make sure
the satellites are working properly.
However, GPS devices do not only perform this function but also offer other significant advantages when
it comes to hiking:
• Know your exact coordinates
• View maps and routes
• Keep track of the distance travelled
• Monitor your walking time and speed
• Indicate points of interest on the map
• Know your altitude and elevation changes
• Use of a compass

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 4.2: Working of GPS for Mountaineering

GPS for hiking is based on satellite positioning, a system that uses satellite networks to determine the exact
position of a receiver on Earth. The GPS device is, in fact, a receiver and operates like an antenna,
receiving signals in the form of radio waves from orbiting satellites. In order to provide an accurate
position, the GPS receiver must successfully connect to 4 different satellites, so that the position of the
device can be determined in real time.
As mentioned above, positioning is just one of the many functions that a hiking GPS offers. It is a real
computer that supports different types of maps and is able to process routes and calculate useful
data related to your route. A precise and comprehensive tool, it is also lightweight and easy to carry.

Fig 8: Working of GPS

As far as radio signal reception is concerned, it is worth bearing in mind that there are different satellite
networks established in different countries, the most widely used of which are GPS (United States),
Glonass (Russia) and Galileo (Europe). Usually, GPS receivers are compatible with the main satellite
networks, but you should take this into account before purchasing a GPS so that you do not end up without
a signal during an excursion.
It is also good to keep in mind that there may be some limitations that can affect the satellite signal and
reduce the accuracy of the positioning. If you are standing in the narrow alleyways of a city or between
very tall buildings, the GPS receiver may not be able to capture the signal from 4 different satellites, so
the position provided by the device may be very approximate. Similarly, you may find yourself in tunnels
or in passages between two rock walls during a trek in the mountains, in which case the radio signal may
be weak, so it is advisable to check the route when you have a strong signal.
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 4.3: Different devices with GPS for Mountaineering

There are different types of GPS for hiking, each with their own features and functions. For
example, GPS devices may vary in size, battery and screen, or they may offer internet connection options
or the ability to import previously recorded GPS trails. We have listed the different types of GPS for hiking
below, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages so you can work out which device best suits your
needs.

4.3.1: Smartphones
Smartphones are undoubtedly the most common device equipped with GPS and can be used as GPS for
hiking thanks to specific apps, which we have discussed in another article in our blog (The best hiking
apps, according to Garment).The main advantage of using a smartphone as a GPS is definitely
the convenience of having everything in one device, with no need to buy more equipment. On the other
hand, it should be noted that using a GPS puts a strain on the battery of smartphones, meaning that they
may run out of power during the hike.

Fig 9: Smartphone with GPS

Many smartphones also have difficulty functioning in low temperatures and can be damaged by moisture
and dust. Using a smartphone as a GPS is recommended for beginners, but it is important to monitor the
device's battery as this is the only way to contact the emergency services in the event of an accident.

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 4.3.2: Sport watches/ Smart watches
The majority of smartwatches and sports watches are also equipped with GPS and can therefore be used
as GPS devices for hiking. Smartwatches have become increasingly popular in recent years and have
evolved to meet the needs of users. There are simpler versions that can perform basic fitness functions,
such as recording speed and distance or heart rate; but there are also more comprehensive models with
advanced features, such as the ability to record altitude, blood pressure, temperature and the ability to
upload maps and navigate routes.

Fig 10: Sport watches/ Smart watches with GPS

The advantages of a smartwatch include its lightness, convenience and suitability for use in
everyday life. However, the battery may not be sufficient for intensive use or long excursions. In addition,
these devices, which generally have small screens, do not always support the display of maps and routes,
which means that a smartphone or map is required. Using a smartwatch as a GPS on the wrist for hiking
is recommended with basic versions for beginners and more comprehensive models for more experienced
users. There is a wide price range, with smartwatches available from €70 up to €600.

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 4.3.3: Handhelds
Devices designed specifically to provide GPS for hiking include handhelds. These are handheld devices,
equipped with a screen for displaying maps and designed to withstand even the harshest conditions. The
advantages of handheld GPS devices include their resistance to low temperatures and shocks, the range of
features that are useful for hiking and the ability to follow routes from the device's screen.

Fig 11: Handhelds with GPS

Negative aspects include the price, which is on average fairly high for a product that is slowly being phased
out, and the weight, which makes them heavier than other devices. Handhelds for hiking are recommended
for experienced users who are used to navigating in the mountains. The price range is from €200 to €700.

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 5. ADVANTAGES OF GPS FOR MOUNTAINEERING

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. The system uses signals transmitted by orbiting satellites to
pinpoint a device's location and determine any movement over time. On its own, GPS has limitations as
it only provides basic information such as coordinates and a few other statistics, but when combined
with other technology, such as maps, and incorporated into navigational systems, it becomes a very
powerful tool.

Originally developed by the US Department of Defense for military use, GPS is now widely
commercially available to the public, often incorporated into products such as stand-alone or built-in
navigation devices for road vehicles and boats, as well as apps for smartphones.

5.1: Benefits of GPS for Mountaineering

1. Navigation

Perhaps the most common use for GPS is in navigation systems. Combined with map technology, it
becomes a powerful tool for road vehicles and boats. GPS can pinpoint a device's location with accuracy
and by comparing coordinates, the statistics can be used to calculate a device's direction of movement
and speed. This information can be used to provide step-by-step directions from Point A to Point B in
real time.

2. Low Cost

The satellites behind GPS are paid for, maintained and upgraded by the US Department of Defense.
That means that the system is essentially free, although you may have to pay for a device and software
to utilize it. Smartphone apps, such as Google Maps, that use GPS are also typically free.

3. Easy to Use

Navigation using GPS is generally very easy and requires minimal skill or effort, certainly when
compared to traditional methods and technologies, such as map reading. In most cases, the user just has
to input the destination, and the device will do the rest.

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4. Safety

GPS tracking can be used by parents to keep tabs on their children and make sure that they're safe.
Spouses can also use similar technology to keep track of their partners. As well as GPS tracking being
useful for keeping staff members and others safe in certain jobs, it can also be used to monitor the
whereabouts of key workers in case they're urgently required to deal with an emergency.

5. Traffic and Weather Alerts

One of the great things about GPS is that it is all happening in real time. That means that you can be
notified if there is a traffic accident or another type of hold-up ahead, or if you are approaching an area
where there is a severe weather event occurring. Not only can this shorten your journey time, but it also
improves safety.

6. Flexible Route Options

GPS gives you route choices in live time, enabling flexibility. You can choose a route according to your
particular needs or desires. If you take a wrong turn, a new route can be calculated using GPS. If your
route becomes blocked by an incident, GPS can be used to calculate a new pathway.

7. Updated and Maintained

The GPS system is paid for, updated, and maintained by the US Department of Defense, so that it is
always accurate. Most software, apps, and devices that use GPS are also regularly updated, normally for
free. So, unlike a traditional printed map which goes out of date after a while, GPS and related
technology normally stay very accurate.

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 6. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE

6.1: Conclusion

The outstanding performance of GPS over many years has earned the confidence of millions of users
worldwide. It has proven its dependability in the past and promises to be beneficial to user throughout
the world far into future.
GPS is a fantastic tool of the 21st century offering many functions: waypoint, MOB. However, received
information is not always reliable, and it would have been interesting to see in which cases it is not.
Furthermore, the space segment is completely controlled by the American Army which enables them to
completely remove the satellite cover in certain countries in the event of a war.
This aspect mobilized Europe towards the creation of its own GPS system: the project GALILEO, which
should be in place2008. The future of GPS appears to be virtually unlimited; technological fantasies
abound. The system provides a novel, unique, and instantly available address for every square yard on
the surface of the planet–a new international standard for locations and distances.
To the computers of the world, at least, our locations may be defined not by a street address, a city, and
a state, but by a longitude and a latitude. With the GPS location of services stored with phone numbers
in computerized “yellow pages,” the search for a local restaurant or the nearest gas station in any city,
town, or suburb will be completed in an instant.
With GPS, the world has been given a technology of unbounded promise, born in the laboratories of
scientists who were motivated by their own curiosity to probe the nature of the universe and our world,
and built on the fruits of publicly supported basic research

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 6.2: Future scope
.
Global Positioning System for Mountaineering is much more than just the means of finding a way while
commuting. It fulfills a much higher purpose than finding the fastest route. They help you to monitor
crucial parameters like speed, trip distance, geo-fencing, real-time tracking among others.
GPS trackers have paved the way for both automobiles like cars, trucks, buses as well as personal safety
devices like GPS tracking smartwatches. They are easily trackable via smartphone or laptop keeping
you tension-free.
GPS trackers have paved the way for both automobiles like cars, trucks, buses as well as personal safety
devices like GPS tracking smartwatches. They are easily trackable via smartphone or laptop keeping
you tension-free. Trackers are small with technological advancement, tend to grow and improve. The
future of GPS tracking looks extremely promising and we can expect some interesting advancement in
this area. Let’s look at what the future holds for GPS monitoring systems.
Compact Size and Longer Life Span– Compact GPS devices are smaller than a cell phone but the
experts predict that continuous development may shrink the sizes of these devices further.
The size of the tracker depends on the battery, while a thumbnail-sized receiver can be improved, it
needs to be big enough to accommodate the battery. As the battery technology unfolds, in the future, we
may be able to see GPS trackers getting smaller in size. These days, the best trackers can go up to 30
days without a recharge but to go longer, extended battery packs may be needed which provide up to 6
months of uninterrupted usage.
Affordability– GPS trackers are no longer a luxury reserved for big organizations and government
agencies. The low-price points have brought it within the reach of small companies and even individuals.
GPS vehicle tracking is a must for every business and the raised productivity and efficiency make it a
value for money. They are immensely useful for both the professional and personal front. As per their
requirements, different sections of people can be catered through the affordable price range. The devices
are getting compact yet powerful. Hence, this is the best time to invest in GPS tracking solutions.
Extensive Usage– Past few years have seen a considerable rise in businesses turning to GPS technology,
as an effective way to manage their transports, employees, and assets. GPS fleet management
systems allow enterprises to access driver’s performance, vehicle maintenance to providing other
necessary inputs like live vehicle tracking.

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 7. REFERENCE LINKS

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