How to Choose a GPS

You have heard that new sport, Geocaching, is fun. Or, you are tired of losing your way on your travels. Accept gladly to the 21st century. Global Positioning System (GPS) has been around long enough that prices are reasonable and the technology is easy to use. With countless brands and models, how to choose?

If you would like a GPS for mutually hiking and driving use, then a handheld unit possible way to go. Some handhelds even have accessories to allow them to be fit in an automobile. But do not rule out a PDA. More on that in a moment. For driving only, there are GPS receivers made just for vehicle use.

Handheld GPS receivers are mapping or non--mapping. A basic, non--mapping unit can normally cost less than $100 US and generally has/displays the following:

* Location
* Compass heading
* Elevation above sea level
* Accurate time
* Satellite location and signal strength
* The ability to calculate distance traveled
* The ability to record your path as a set of waypoints
* The ability to navigate routes
* The ability to retrace your steps

Handheld mapping receivers do all the above plus have the capability to display maps. The maps are either pre-loaded or uploaded from your Personal Computer. Prices are affordable for mapping units, starting at approximately $150 US.

Paper maps are strongly recommended whether you are using a mapping receiver or not. Paper maps do not require batteries and probably will not go defective. Also, a paper map gives you a "big picture" view of your conditions -- something lacking on the small screen of a GPS.

I mentioned earlier your thinking a PDA with GPS capability. A PDA is bulkier and the battery life is normally shorter, but if you are using a PDA anyhow, then there are various ways to turn a PDA into a GPS. Some PDAs accept a GPS "sleeve." That is a device that the PDA nestles into. Another choice is one of Garmin's PDAs. Garmin is perhaps the most popular GPS maker and they have one PDA/GPS that is Palm--based and one that is Pocket PC--based.

Prices for automotive GPS start at roughly $250 US. These provide turn-by-turn guidance. Pay out a little more than that and you get voice guidance. These are larger than handhelds in order to accommodate a screen large enough to be seen while driving. They are powered by the car's electrical system and because of this; they can only be used in a vehicle.

Many automobile producers now offer built-in GPS receivers as an option. Because they are built-in, the big advantages are security and aesthetics. They are squite a bit more expensive than add-on units and often have fewer options. I've also heard some stories of people having a hard time getting map updates.