Glossary of Terms

GPS Navigation Device (GPS) - A GPS navigation device is any device that receives Global Positioning System (GPS) signals for the purpose of determining location. These devices are used in military, commercial aviation, and consumer product applications. Most devices are able to upload, store, and display waypoint, track and route information. Most GPS units support the GPX file format.

GPX - GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is a file format used for storing and exchanging GPS data. It can be used to describe waypoints, tracks, and routes. The format is open and can be used without the need to pay licence fees. GPX is one of a number of extended versions of XML (Extensible Markup Language). For a complete overview of the format and compatibilities visit the official website.

Google Earth - Google Earth is a virtual globe, map and geographic information program that enables users to browse and view aerial imagery and other geographical information for any location. Users have the ability to import KML and KMZ format files for overlay onto the existing Google Earth imagery. Google Earth also supports GPX files allowing you to add your own GPS information to the globe.

KML - KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is a file format used to specify a set of geographical features for display in Google Earth, Maps and Mobile, or any other 3D Earth browser. KML is one of a number of extended versions of XML (Extensible Markup Language). KML has been recognised as a standard file format by the OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium).

KMZ - KML files are often distributed as KMZ files, which are zipped KML files with a .kmz extension. When a KMZ file is unzipped, a single "doc.kml" is found along with any overlay and icon images referenced in the KML.

Marine Chart Plotter - A Chart Plotter is a device used in marine navigation that integrates GPS data with an electronic navigational chart (ENC). The chart plotter displays the ENC along with the position, heading and speed of the vessell, and may display additional information from radar, automatic information systems (AIS) or other sensors. Most chartplotters support the GPX data format.

GIS - GIS (Geographic Information System) is any information system that captures, stores, analyses, manages, and presents data that refers to or is linked to location.

GIS Dataset - A thematic collection of location data stored in a GIS format.