Handheld GPS Navigation Devices: Choosing the Right One
However, here’s a new problem: which model to buy? There are dozens of different GPS makes and models on the market, and for an uninitiated person choosing the right one may look like a daunting task. Well, it is not – if you know what is it exactly that you need and how much you are ready to pay for it.
Just to make sure that we are not lost there yet: by “GPS” they usually mean a GPS receiver, i.e. a device that is using the Global Positioning System to compute its location. In case you are curious, the core of this Global Positioning System is a bunch of satellites constantly moving around the Earth and transmitting radio signals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in any weather. These 24 satellites are expected to live 10 years. With the DoD having a vested interest in the System’s operation, we may safely assume that they will be replaced in a very timely manner. This is about all theoretical knowledge you may need when buying and operating a GPS receiver.
So, back to question number one: what do you need a GPS for?
There are GPS receivers for hikers, tourists, drivers, aviators and mariners. I would not consider the last two categories here though: if you are an aviator or a mariner, you will probably need a more comprehensive drill in the navigation systems available, depending on your professional level and the magnitude of the challenge you plan to take up.
Let’s imagine that you are a normal person who likes the outdoors and would prefer to use a more structured information than “Take 137 North, go 140 miles, then take exit 3 and ask for directions at the gas station.” Let us also assume that you are able and willing to read maps and even prefer to get from A to B and eventually back to A safely. Then a hand-held device may be your best choice: it is usually lightweight, affordable and comes in different designs. In this category, things to look for are: expandable memory, ability to store waypoints, tracks and routes, as well as to download and display maps.
Depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences, you may choose between rugged waterproof and slicker “urban” design. Make sure that the unit has a back-lit display and the mapping software it comes with can give the distance and directions to the destination point from your current position – or any other position indicated on the map. Color screen and voice prompts may sound attractive but are not essential if you are looking for a bang on your buck.
Of course, most of today’s “Car Navigation Systems” have all those features – and more. But do not forget: such a device may not be used outside the vehicle. Even if you can technically disconnect it from your car, its size and weight will discourage you from dragging it around, and even more so – its price.
This brings us to the second question: how much are you willing to pay? Today’s price range for a handheld GPS is from 120 to 550 USD. I would not recommend any particular brand: the models are different from market to market. Just go through the features’ availability in your price range – and pick the one you like best. It should not come as a surprise that generally you get more when you pay more. This includes accessories that are indispensable and sometimes are not included in the advertised price. Make sure that you have the data connection cable (~$20), power cable and adapter ($15-$30), vehicle mount bracket ($30-$40). And the most expensive item: the software package that you may need if you plan to use electronic maps.
My personal choice – and not necessarily the best choice, as it is all just a matter of preference – is a “clip-on” attachment to my Palm PDA. In case you have a PDA or a pocket PC already, you may want to consider buying a GPS “companion” to use with it. Pros: low additional cost (about $150 for the kit), big screen, and free software downloadable from the Web. Cons: not sturdy enough for outdoors, and a bit more bulky than a regular handheld unit.
Mind you, even if you relax your price restrictions, you will hardly find an ideal GPS. GPS manufacturers are not really interested to let you have all features at once, and will do their best convincing you that you need different units for different applications. To prove their case, they align their product development accordingly: most probably you will not find all the features you need in one GPS receiver.
What should you do then? Just mention to your friends and family that you would like to get a GPS receiver for Christmas – and wait for a pleasant surprise! If Santa proves to be totally out of whack, you can always exchange the unit for a better one. This will fill your life with meaning and excitement, and after a few visits to the store you will become a connoisseur of GPS receivers.
