GPS receiver powered by interface signals

摘要

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.