Abstract: A Global Positioning System (GPS) receiving apparatus that is powered by a control or data interface signal from a computing apparatus. The GPS receiving apparatus includes a GPS receiver for receiving GPS satellite signals and providing GPS-derived location information and a converter for converting the interface signal to operating power signal for operating the GPS receiver. Optionally, the GPS receiver includes a power controller for controlling a duty cycle of the operating power in the GPS receiver in order to not exceed the power available from the interface signal. The interface signal is transmitted according to an interface standard such as RS232, RS422, or PC parallel.

Abstract: A GPS receiver system to determine and display a geographical differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) location where the components of the system are interconnected with an airwave infrared (IR) link. The system includes a GPS Smart Antenna receiver module to determine the geographical location of the module, a DGPS radio receiver to receive an airwave radio frequency DGPS signal having DGPS correction information, and a personal computing display to run an application program and to display the geographical DGPS location and application information that is useful to a user. The GPS Smart Antenna receiver module and the DGPS radio receiver are switched on and off from the personal computing display through the airwave IR link.

Abstract: A Personal Digital Location Apparatus for displaying a geographical location as an icon on a map. The apparatus includes a GPS Smart Antenna for determining the geographical location, a personal computing device including a display, a processing system including a standard software operating system such as DOS, Windows, Macintosh, or Geoworks, and a map application program capable of running in the operating system. The GPS Smart Antenna includes an internal battery and a power sensor for sensing the connection of an external power source. The GPS Smart Antenna receives power from the external power source when the power sensor senses that the external power source is connected and receives power from the internal battery when the power sensor senses that the external power source is not connected.