The Garmin Nuvi 205 global positioning system (GPS) uses satellite information to guide users around the island while the Tramigo T22 uses the same technology to track locations.

The devices are distributed by the JAA, a subsidiary of Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), as an extension of its use within the society, said Duane Ellis, JAA operations manager.

"Satellite navigation is a relatively new technology for the Jamaican private sector," Ellis continued.

Most of its local use, so far, has been by the Government in its land-management programmes.

Ultimate aim

Charmaine Delisser, the dean of Faculty of Engineering and Computing at UTech, welcomed the devices and said the university with its strong research capabilities would develop customised web applications for them.

"Our ultimate aim is to find the appropriate use of these devices for real solutions," she said.

The JAA was the first company to offer the new technology to the general public when it launched the Garmin range of GPS devices earlier this year.

The Kansas, USA based Garmin International, uses the United States government-owned GPS locational satellite network.

Ellis said local use of the technology is still relatively limited, which presents significant opportunities for wider application.

The JNBS has already adapted the technology for several different uses. One application has been to serve its micro-business-funded JN Small Business Loans in helping to determine the location of its clients.