Eagle Electronics IntelliMap 480 - Manual (Page 10)

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NOTE:
The above memory capacities refer only to the IntelliMap 480's on-
board memory. The amount of GPS data you can record and save for
recall later is only limited by the number of MMC cards you have.
NOTICE!
The storage temperature range for your IntelliMap 480 is from -4 de-
grees to +167 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 degrees to +75 degrees Celsius).
Extended storage in temperatures higher or lower than specified will
damage the liquid crystal display in your unit. This type of damage is not
covered by the warranty. For more information, contact the factory's Cus-
tomer Service Department; phone numbers are listed on the last page.
How GPS Works
You'll navigate faster and easier if you understand how the IntelliMap
480 scans the sky to tell you where you are on the earth — and, where
you're going. (But if you already have a working understanding of GPS
receivers and the GPS navigation system, skip on ahead to Section 2,
Installation & Accessories on page 11. If you're new to GPS, read on, and
you can later impress your friends with your new-found knowledge.)
First, think of your unit as a small but powerful computer. (But don't
worry — we made it easy to use, so you don't need to be a computer ex-
pert to find your way!) The IntelliMap 480 includes a keypad and a
screen with menus so you can tell it what to do. The screen also lets the
unit show your location on a moving map, as well as point the way to
your destination.
This gimbal-mounted IntelliMap 480 uses an external antenna/receiver
module, which makes the whole system work something like your car
radio. But instead of your favorite dance tunes, this receiver tunes in to
a couple of dozen GPS satellites circling the earth. (It will also listen in
to the WAAS satellites in orbit, but more about that in the upcoming
segment introducing you to GPS and WAAS.)
Your unit listens to signals from as many satellites as it can "see" above
the horizon, eliminates the weakest signals, then computes its location
in relation to those satellites. Once the IntelliMap 480 figures its lati-
tude and longitude, it plots that position on the moving map shown on
the screen. The whole process takes place several times a second!
The performance doesn't stop there. Stored in the permanent memory
of each unit is a basic background map of the entire world. We lock it in
here at the factory — you can't change or erase this map.