Abstract: A speech recognition equipped geographic information recording apparatus and method. In one embodiment, a mobile data terminal has a communication node therein. A geographic mapping system is integral with the mobile data terminal, and is coupled to the communication node. A speech recognition system adapted to receive verbal information is also coupled to the mobile data terminal. The speech recognition system is adapted to receive attribute data verbalized by an operator of the mobile data terminal. Additionally, the speech recognition system is adapted to receive operating commands verbalized by an operator of the mobile data terminal. The communication node of the mobile data terminal includes a transmitter for sending information from the mobile data terminal to a desired location, and a receiver for receiving information from a desired location. In the present embodiment, a real-time communication link exists between the mobile data terminal and the desired location.

Abstract: An integrated geographic information and automatic position locating system. In one embodiment, a communication link is provided between a vehicle and at least one base station. A vehicle position tracking system, coupled to a vehicle to be monitored, is connected to the communication link. Likewise, a geographic mapping system also disposed within the vehicle is connected to the communication link. In the present embodiment, the vehicle position tracking system and the geographic mapping system are housed in a portable data terminal. The portable data terminal is removably placed into a docking station located within the vehicle. The integrated vehicle position tracking system and geographic mapping system function both when placed in the docking station, and when removed from the docking station. Thus, the present invention provides a mobile integrated vehicle position tracking system and the geographic mapping system integrated into a portable data terminal.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing map information of varying resolution to a navigation device. In one embodiment, a position determining system is attached to a navigation device. The position determining system generates position information, such as location, of the navigation device. The position information is transmitted to a base station containing map information. Map information related to, for example, the location of the navigation device is then transmitted from the base station to the navigation device. The map information is displayed on a display of the navigation device. Therefore, the base station only transmits map information related to the position information of the navigation device.