Apply for Trekker GPS Training

Program Overview
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Frequently Asked Questions

Program Overview

Trekker is a handheld device that uses GPS (global positioning system) technology and digital maps to help blind and visually impaired people navigate unfamiliar territory. Through the use of the same global positioning satellites used by automobile navigation systems, people who are visually impaired now have access to some of the same information taken for granted by sighted drivers and pedestrians.

As part of the VetDogs program, the Guide Dog Foundation is excited to offer visually impaired veterans the opportunity to be trained to use Trekker. This service is available to all veterans who are guide dog users, even if they have a dog from another dog guide school.

Trekker is an innovative tool from HumanWare, a global company that adapts cutting-edge technology to make products that allow people with disabilities to participate fully in today’s informative intensive and mobile society.

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To apply for the Guide Dog Foundation's Trekker Training Program please contact Barrie Madasu, Consumer Services Manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Trekker work?
How do I use Trekker?
How accurate is Trekker?
Why does the Guide Dog Foundation offer Trekker?
Where is Trekker training offered?
How long is training?
Who does the training?
What will I learn?
What are the requirements to get Trekker training?
How much does it cost?

How does Trekker work?
The Trekker GPS system is based on an off-the-shelf personal digital assistant (PDA) with a tactile overlay, a separate speaker, a standard GPS receiver, and software that makes the system fully accessible.

A GPS receiver calculates its position by measuring the distance between itself and three or more GPS satellites. The time delay between transmission and reception of each GPS radio signal gives the distance to each satellite, since the signal travels at a known speed. By determining the position of, and distance to, at least three satellites, the receiver can compute its position.

As a person walks with the Trekker, he or she can access information about approaching intersections, street names, and points of interest, and establish and follow routes. After entering a location, the Trekker will “speak” the directions; the user can then give instructions to his dog.

How do I use Trekker?
When you are out and about, you turn on all the components of the Trekker system and boot up. As you walk, Trekker will announce upcoming intersections and points of interest. You can also add in your own locations such as a bus stop, your office, or your favorite restaurant.

How accurate is Trekker?
Although it has been adapted for civilian use, GPS technology was originally designed for the military. By law, commercial GPS systems are accurate only to between 15 and 30 feet. Trekker requires a line of sight to satellites, and in some urban settings or in heavily forested areas, the signal may be lost. GPS needs to triangulate between at least three satellites to pinpoint your location with accuracy.

Why does the Guide Dog Foundation offer Trekker?
For some time, the Foundation has believed that a GPS system adapted for people who are visually impaired would be a wonderful enhancement to the mobility provided by our guide dogs. After research and testing, we found the Trekker system from HumanWare met our requirements and best served the needs of our consumers.

Where is Trekker training offered?
The Foundation will offer the Trekker system to veterans at no charge, with training at our campus in Smithtown, NY, or at other locations throughout the country, including the West Palm Beach Blind Rehabilitation Center (BRC).

How long is training?
Training will generally last four to five days with classroom sessions and practical lessons on the street. Guide dog instructors will help integrate the Trekker into the work of the guide dog team. At a VA BRC such as West Palm Beach, training is generally seven days.

Who does the training?
We're proud that Trekker training is conducted by Foundation graduates who are proficient Trekker users, and then continues with guide dog instructors.

What will I learn?
Instructors will ensure that your work with Trekker does not interfere with your guide dog's work. They'll help you find the most comfortable way to wear the device and help you to interpret what Trekker tells you versus what your dog tells you about your local environment.

What are the requirements to get Trekker training?
You must have access to a computer running Windows 2000 or XP. This is necessary to install new maps and information on the Trekker, and you must have the ability to work in Windows and operate adaptive equipment and software.

You will also need sufficient manual dexterity to manipulate buttons on such devices as cell phones, and have a genuine need for the device (for example, walking or traveling on a regular basis).

Finally, you must be teamed with your current guide for at least six months and be a safe working team before you can be considered for Trekker training.

How much does it cost?
The basic Trekker model is provided at no cost to you. You may, if you wish, purchase the optional Maestro organizer (Calendar, Address Book, Notepad, Daisy Books) for $300 and receive an additional day of training in its use.

To learn more about Trekker, please visit the Humanware Web site.