Data Hacking

242 Part III — Data Hacking
FIGURE 10-30: Choosing how often to update the PC clock
With the software set up, it’s now time to set up the hardware that you will need.
Setting Up the Hardware
To set up the required hardware, you will need the following:
A GPS
A cable/wireless connection
A long-term power supply (a wall adapter is ideal — choose one with the appropriate
input and output voltages, depending on your location and equipment) for the GPS
(batteries aren’t going to last long if the GPS is on 24/7)
The type of GPS you use is important. I consider the long-term use of a handheld GPS such
as the Garmin eTrex to be a bit wasteful; and depending on location, it might be vulnerable to
loss, theft, or damage. I recommend investing in a small receiver such as the Leadtek GPS Smart
Antenna GPS 9532 (www.leadtek.com/gps/gps9532/9532.htm). These are low-cost
receiver-only setups and are designed for long-term exposure to the elements. However, if you
only need to set up the time occasionally, your existing GPS receiver will suffice.
Power is important — for long-term use, you don’t want to change batteries regularly. The
Leadtek receiver mentioned in the preceding paragraph draws power from the 5/12 volt supply
and contains an internal backup battery in case of power failure.
Choosing a good position for your receiver is vital. The best position for the receiver is the tallest,
least obstructed spot, away from trees and not overshadowed by other buildings. Figure 10-31
shows some good locations for the antenna, while Figure 10-32 indicates some bad locations
for a receiver.