Are You Starting The Search For The Perfect Handheld GPS? These Are 5 Details You Must Consider First!

| Friday, January 13, 2012
By Jeff Hazelton


When traveling outdoors, it is important to have the right equipment for your safety and comfort. Hunting through areas of thick undergrowth or rugged terrain can be challenging, and taking a GPS device with you is a smart option, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.

There are a many of nav. systems available on the market right now. The wide variety of brands and model types make the selection of a perfect GPS confusing and difficult. Brands offer different models at times, and they also come in a broad spectrum of prices. So, it is tremendously important for you to know what factors you should take into consideration before you buy one. It is wise if you have a get a clear picture in your mind of what you need.

Generally, navigation systems function as your directional guide. It helps you get from point A to point B. This is accomplished by creating waypoints. Imagine you are walking in a maze, and in order to get back to your point of origin, you need to leave some markers, which will make it easy for you. The waypoints are markers. They are like bread crumbs that help you find your way back, in case you are lost. This is such an important feature of a navigation system, especially for rugged terrain. When hiking, this could become extremely beneficial. So, first thing you have to check is the GPS capability to provide you waypoints. It will also be wonderful if the model is capable of adding up or storing more mapping points in its memory.

One more thing you might consider is the ability of your device to reach tough places. You must realize that not all navigation systems can pick up strong signals from satellites. If you are planning for an outdoor adventure, this detail is critical.

If you have a Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) enabled device it will certainly make it delightful for you to enjoy hunting with peace of mind. Wide Area Augmentation Sytem (WAAS) is a satellite system that works with fixed stations on the ground that gives a GPS receiver signal corrections, thus providing you an accurate position than a standard GPS reading. In regular conditions, it can pinpoint your location five times better than a standard GPS reading. If your navigation system is WAAS-enabled, then it will provide you a position accuracy of three meters.

Aside from its essential functions, you must also keep in mind the physical attributes your GPS device offers. Being handy while outdoors is an essential detail. Having a nav system that is not bulky or heavy will be a plus factor for your adventure. Convenience in using the product is also vital. Display screens can be a consideration, as well. I prefer the colored ones, as they are simpler to read than the black and white screens. Battery life plays a significant role also. I don't think you would like to be in the middle of tough wilderness without any idea where you might be. Make sure that the GPS Navigation system offers a decent running time for its batteries.

At the top of the leading brands on the market today, I suggest the Garmin eTrex Legend HCx. This GPS provides a high-sensitivity receiver for your GPS device, which allows clearer reception wherever you may be. It is also WAAS-enabled. The Garmin eTrex Legend HCx also has a colored display screen that is readable even in direct sunlight. Garmin company has taken into consideration all of the unique needs of outdoors enthusiasts and have not missed anything.




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