How to Test GPS on Cell Phones
Testing the GPS capabilities of your phone can sometimes be tricky, depending on what type of phone you have, where you live and what you plan on using the GPS for. To devise a proper test, you should construct a test that accurately replicates the normal, everyday use you plan to have for the phone. A great example of how to test GPS units can be seen in publications like PC World, where the reviewers have to regularly put cell phone GPS units through the ringer to see which ones work and which ones don't.
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Instructions
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Verify that your phone has GPS capabilities by looking in your instruction manual that came with your phone. While most modern phones have GPS capabilities, not all do, and it's important to verify that your phone has this feature.
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Pick out a few simple tasks that you will be using the GPS for on a frequent basis, such as getting directions, using it to navigate to unknown parts of your town or for something like geocaching. Sketch out a plan to do each of these activities either all in one day or on different days, depending on your schedule.
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Pick out some measurements that you will use to judge your phone's GPS capabilities. Some examples might include how long it takes to acquire a GPS signal, how well the GPS works in heavy clouds or rain, how often the signal is lost and regained and how well it works in forested or mountainous terrain.
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Execute your plans and write down your observations about how well your phone's GPS performs, based off of the measurements you chose. Try not to let your emotions or subjective opinions enter into the measurements, since you will want to make an objective and honest assessment of the GPS capabilities of your phone.
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Judge your phone based on how well it performed during your tests. If you are satisfied with how well it performed, then you can consider your phone tested and working, and proceed to use it in your day-to-day activities.
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Tips & Warnings
Many new cell phones have a short period of time after the initial purchase when they can be returned as long as the phone is undamaged. Consider using this time to test your phone so that you can return it if you are not satisfied with its performance.
