GPS Handheld Mapping Devices - What Is The Difference?

So many companies that offered GPS handheld mapping devices are operated today. Some of them are just among those many outstanding GPS handheld mapping providers such as Magellan, Garmin, Lowrance, and much more.

For those who are interested to acquire some knowledge about some of those GPS handheld mapping devices that are widely used by many nowadays, try to look at some of the information below about a couple samples of GPS handheld mapping devices. Note that these are just among the many GPS handheld mapping devices that are out in the market today.

One of the outstanding GPS handheld mapping manufacturers and providers is the Magellan GPS Company. Magellan GPS devised one of their excellent GPS handheld mapping receivers and that is the Magellan SporTrak Map which is a Euro base map. This certain GPS handheld mapping device is a scraggy well-built, lightweight and compact GPS handheld mapping device that provides an exceptional benefit for the outdoor junkies. Aside from that interesting of feature, the Magellan SporTrak Map as a GPS handheld mapping device has an accuracy of about 3 meters and highlights a 2 MB European mapping database.

For much detail, the Magellan SporTrak Map as one of the outstanding GPS handheld mapping devices has a free memory that is 6 MB for favors for downloading street-level maps. Besides of being a GPS handheld mapping device, the Magellan SporTrak Map contains seven huge graphical navigation displays for the adventure junkie to fully and clearly view all the details stored in such GPS handheld mapping device. With this certain GPS handheld mapping receiver, I am sure that you will gain something that will add a new level of pleasure to your adventure.

Another noticeable GPS handheld mapping receiver is the Garmin GPSMAP 76 unit. The Garmin GPS Company has designed this GPS handheld mapping receiver to give those adventure enthusiasts concrete GPS positioning through the correction data gathered from the Wide Area Augmentation System. This smart GPS handheld mapping receiver highlights a built-in quad helix antenna for an exceptional coverage and this particular GPS handheld mapping device can offer accurate position to less than three meters when acquiring WAAS adjustments.

Besides, the Garmin GPSMAP 76 as one of the notable GPS handheld mapping devices has an internal memory that is capable of eight megabytes for obtaining optional MapSource which is detailed maps, including some marine cartographic sketches. Lastly, this GPS handheld mapping device is capable of storing exact details about the worldwide cities and the nautical navigation aids.

Article Source: http://articles.directorygold.com

Dean Shainin is a well known writer of GPS System Reviews a site designed to provide current information, resources, tips, services and state of the art products related to GPS systems.
By: Dean Shainin

Magellan GPS Navigation System and the Ford F-150

Navigation Systems are a lot like DVRs (better known as TiVo). People who don't own them fail to understand why they're such a big deal, and those who have them can't live without them.

GPS technology actually consists of three separate components all working together. The three parts are the satellite constellation, the ground control network and the user equipment. By satellite constellation, we mean the satellites in low earth orbit which provide the signals and navigational data to the user's equipment. The ground control network continually monitors the health of the various satellites and the integrity of the signals received. The user equipment is designed to receive signals from the satellite constellation and computer.

Today's cars, SUV's and pick-up trucks come with a variety of extras, from passenger side air bags to the ubiquitous car alarms. Entertainment options range from high-end speakers and CD players to multiple DVD players. The GPS navigation system, however, forms the bridge between safety and entertainment features. While they're definitely entertaining, they can also become a must-have safety net in your travels.

GPS is used to calculate and display the position and speed of the user and determine where they are and how fast they are moving at any time. This makes GPS technology particularly valuable in automobiles, and rental car companies have been using GPS technology for many years now. Navigation in the commercial automobile fleet is newer, but it is steadily gaining popularity. GPS technology is particularly valuable in the event of an emergency like a car crash or breakdown, as it provides valuable assistance to emergency personnel responding to an accident and to tow trucks responding to a disabled vehicle. Refer to our navigation menu to find more information on truck GPS from our site.

The Global Positioning System is a navigation system originally developed by the US military which continues its' maintenance today. It is an integrated system of 24 satellites that orbit the earth and through the navigational process of triangulation can pinpoint a position anywhere on earth where a receiver is located. During the 1980's the government opened up the use of the GPS to the private sector. It is widely expected to become the next personal utility in the same way that cellular phones have over the past couple of decades.

Global Positioning Satellite navigation systems can replace all the maps in your glove compartment and ensure that you arrive at your destination on time. GPS navigation systems are equipped with mapping software and can give you driving directions, show you alternate routes if you're stuck in a traffic jam, and can help you negotiate a new city. While you're on the road, a navigation system can also guide you to the nearest gas stations, restaurants, and other points of interest.

GPS technology actually breaks down into two distinct categories - a Standard Positioning Service (SPS) which is used for general civilian uses, and a Precise Positioning Service (PPS) which is used primarily by the Department of Defense and U.S. allies. Of course this precise military positioning will eventually filter down to the general public, just as GPS technology did originally.

There are many accessories available for GPS navigation systems. You can, for example, buy software, holders to mount your system to your dashboard or windshield, memory cards, cigarette lighter adapters, antennas, and Bluetooth.

Pick-Up Truck GPS navigation is a special form of navigation, as it is not you who navigates, but computer-software that tells you how to travel to your destination. And frankly spoken, it does the job much better than you ever could. Systems with voice output are a great help as they do not create the slightest distraction for the driver. Everybody could use one and everybody can use one, because you really do not need any special skill to operate these car GPS systems.

Magellan® is the consumer brand of Thales Navigation, one of the world's leading innovators of navigation and positioning solutions with operations worldwide. Magellan was the brand that introduced the first consumer handheld GPS solution in 1989, and it has maintained its place as a leading global GPS brand for consumers.

With product lines in auto navigation and recreational handheld, Magellan's current product line up include Magellan RoadMate portable auto navigation solutions, eXplorist handhelds, and MapSend mapping and software products.

There are many benefits for the automobile owner to have their vehicle equipped with a navigation system including saving time, fuel economy, safety, and tracking. Enjoy these benefits for your Ford F150 with an easy to install Magellan in-dash system.

Article Source: http://articles.directorygold.com

Melih ("may-lee") Oztalay, CEO SmartFinds Internet Marketing Web: www.brandmotion.com EMail: melih@hsfideas.com Tel: (248) 568-2241 Travel Brand Motion style. Brandmotion is a brand new way to bring high quality lifestyle customizing choices to consumer vehicle interiors.
Navigation Systems are a lot like DVRs (better known as TiVo). People who don't own them fail to understand why they're such a big deal, and those who have them can't live without them.

GPS technology actually consists of three separate components all working together. The three parts are the satellite constellation, the ground control network and the user equipment. By satellite constellation, we mean the satellites in low earth orbit which provide the signals and navigational data to the user's equipment. The ground control network continually monitors the health of the various satellites and the integrity of the signals received. The user equipment is designed to receive signals from the satellite constellation and computer.

Today's cars, SUV's and pick-up trucks come with a variety of extras, from passenger side air bags to the ubiquitous car alarms. Entertainment options range from high-end speakers and CD players to multiple DVD players. The GPS navigation system, however, forms the bridge between safety and entertainment features. While they're definitely entertaining, they can also become a must-have safety net in your travels.

GPS is used to calculate and display the position and speed of the user and determine where they are and how fast they are moving at any time. This makes GPS technology particularly valuable in automobiles, and rental car companies have been using GPS technology for many years now. Navigation in the commercial automobile fleet is newer, but it is steadily gaining popularity. GPS technology is particularly valuable in the event of an emergency like a car crash or breakdown, as it provides valuable assistance to emergency personnel responding to an accident and to tow trucks responding to a disabled vehicle. Refer to our navigation menu to find more information on truck GPS from our site.

The Global Positioning System is a navigation system originally developed by the US military which continues its' maintenance today. It is an integrated system of 24 satellites that orbit the earth and through the navigational process of triangulation can pinpoint a position anywhere on earth where a receiver is located. During the 1980's the government opened up the use of the GPS to the private sector. It is widely expected to become the next personal utility in the same way that cellular phones have over the past couple of decades.

Global Positioning Satellite navigation systems can replace all the maps in your glove compartment and ensure that you arrive at your destination on time. GPS navigation systems are equipped with mapping software and can give you driving directions, show you alternate routes if you're stuck in a traffic jam, and can help you negotiate a new city. While you're on the road, a navigation system can also guide you to the nearest gas stations, restaurants, and other points of interest.

GPS technology actually breaks down into two distinct categories - a Standard Positioning Service (SPS) which is used for general civilian uses, and a Precise Positioning Service (PPS) which is used primarily by the Department of Defense and U.S. allies. Of course this precise military positioning will eventually filter down to the general public, just as GPS technology did originally.

There are many accessories available for GPS navigation systems. You can, for example, buy software, holders to mount your system to your dashboard or windshield, memory cards, cigarette lighter adapters, antennas, and Bluetooth.

Pick-Up Truck GPS navigation is a special form of navigation, as it is not you who navigates, but computer-software that tells you how to travel to your destination. And frankly spoken, it does the job much better than you ever could. Systems with voice output are a great help as they do not create the slightest distraction for the driver. Everybody could use one and everybody can use one, because you really do not need any special skill to operate these car GPS systems.

Magellan® is the consumer brand of Thales Navigation, one of the world's leading innovators of navigation and positioning solutions with operations worldwide. Magellan was the brand that introduced the first consumer handheld GPS solution in 1989, and it has maintained its place as a leading global GPS brand for consumers.

With product lines in auto navigation and recreational handheld, Magellan's current product line up include Magellan RoadMate portable auto navigation solutions, eXplorist handhelds, and MapSend mapping and software products.

There are many benefits for the automobile owner to have their vehicle equipped with a navigation system including saving time, fuel economy, safety, and tracking. Enjoy these benefits for your Ford F150 with an easy to install Magellan in-dash system.

Article Source: http://articles.directorygold.com

Melih ("may-lee") Oztalay, CEO SmartFinds Internet Marketing Web: www.brandmotion.com EMail: melih@hsfideas.com Tel: (248) 568-2241 Travel Brand Motion style. Brandmotion is a brand new way to bring high quality lifestyle customizing choices to consumer vehicle interiors.

What to REALLY expect from a GPS Tracking System

GPS Tracking is taking the corporate world, and this is a wave that is growing more and more everyday. However, there is still a lot of lack of knowledge when companies decide to go into this technology. Most of the times, companies will look for a simple solution that shows their vehicles in a map, but after a few months they start to realize the real force of these technologies when applied to logistic processes, just to mention one.

This is Part 1 of a series of 10 articles in which I will present how a GPS Tracking system can REALLY make a difference in a company's performance. In this article I will start to define some of the terminology and concepts needed to have a fair understanding of GPS Tracking.

There are many applications for the GPS TRACKING technology that can be divided into two main groups: NAVIGATION and TRACKING.

Navigation is related to devices that are installed in the vehicles and that provide on-board navigation information. The user will usually enter a destination address and will start receiving audio and visual directions on how to arrive to that place. Samples of these devices are seen in almost every computer store, and the most recognized brands are Garmin, TomTom, and others.

Tracking is related to devices installed in the vehicles that send information about the vehicle to computer programs where the information is processed and presented to users in maps and reports. The information sent by these devices includes at least the position in terms of Latitude and Longitude, the speed, the direction (north, south, east, etc.), the date and the time. Other devices include more sophisticated information such as Ignition status, doors status, on-board engine diagnostic, etc. Samples of companies that provide this type of products are also multiple, and can be found by tons with any search in a search engine like Google.

The GPS Tracking Solutions are usually provided as web applications, more than applications that have to be downloaded and installed in users' computers. And as mentioned before, there is a wealth of options to pick from. Many companies will offer to their users Tracking solutions that can be accessed via web, and that allows to keep track of the vehicles of the companies in a map and in several reports.

Once a company or an individual decides to go into this technology, the first question that has to be solved is: What type of GPS System I need? Is it a Tracking System? Or a Navigation System? It is very common to start shopping around without a clear understanding of what is needed. The orientation of these articles will be GPS Tracking Solutions. GPS Navigation will be subject of a future article. And this first article severs as a starting point to understand and identify what the needs are on each particular case.

In the next article I will discuss some additional terms related to GPS Tracking and will start going into its applications in the day to day processes.

Article Source: http://articles.directorygold.com

Mr. Olano, with over 10 year in GPS Tracking Industry, deep knowledge of wireless communications, tracking devices, map engines, and with over 2,000 companies that adopted GPS, earned him a position as expert of GPS Tracking Technologies. Visit him at www.trackingsolutionsonline.com and www.geosoftusa.com .
By: Juan Olano

GPS Vehicle Fleet Tracking in Business Today

GPS Vehicle Fleet Tracking isn't just for the big businesses anymore. Businesses with fleets as small as 5 vehicles are using GPS vehicle fleet tracking and finding themselves making back their investment within a short period of time. Fortunately, technology changes are making it more affordable for these smaller businesses to use this GPS fleet tracking to serve their needs.

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) use a network of satellites beaming time-stamped signals to receivers on the surface of the Earth. By measuring the delay between when the signal was sent and when it arrived from three different satellites, you can isolate the coordinates of any receiver on the surface of the earth, with a precision that goes down to inches for military receivers, and about two years for commonly available civilian gear.

GPS equipment has become more and more common as cell phone technology has made it more portable and easier to use. There are many benefits to equip your fleets with GPS tracking technology.

Firstly, GPS equipment, and the monitoring software for it, allows you to have precise locations of delivery vehicles. This makes it possible to route technicians and repairmen and delivery personnel more efficiently, and to let customers know, nearly in real time, about any potential delays in routing or delivery.

Second, because of more accurate data gathered on the movements of vehicles in your fleet, you have better control over mileage, proactive maintenance, and fuel economy. It's a lot easier to keep track of fuel economy when you can factor in idle times.

In similar vein, you now have an accurate record of where every vehicle in your fleet has traveled over the course of a given day. Your payroll expenses will go down; when you have an accurate log of where every vehicle is at every hour of the day, you can cross reference it against employee time sheets for hours spent driving for reimbursement.

Likewise, most vehicle-tracking GPS software allows you to set a "virtual fence" which lets you tell when a vehicle has gone "out of zone" - this is good for tracking if a vehicle has made an unscheduled detour, or to track it down if it's stolen.

Finally, more and more GPS tracking software can work with a public web interface. It can be a great marketing coup for a taxicab company to have a web site that shows, as an overlay on Google maps, the location of all cabs reporting in, whether they have a fare and so on - this makes it much easier to schedule a cab pickup, or run a bus route with accurate time stamps for how far ahead or behind a bus is on its scheduled rounds.

The previous benefits listed make businesses look into investing into GPS fleet tracking as a solution to keeping costs down; it's estimated that the more accurate timekeeping versus payroll expenses can cause a typical small business with a fleet of company vehicles to save enough money to pay for the installation and software in under 90 days.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com

By: B Hopkins

GPS Fleet Tracking System: How Does Vehicle Fleet Tracking Improve Your Business?

GPS or global position system utilizes satellite signals to track location. This system has become so precise that it can pinpoint an actual location to within yards. GPS has many uses, one of which as a GPS fleet tracking system. There are several benefits of using GPS for vehicle fleet tracking.

The GPS tracking system is used with software that a dispatcher accesses from the computer. This will allow better dispatch for service technicians or delivery drivers. There are usually delays when dispatching is done using a map and judgment of the dispatcher. With the aid of the GPS fleet tracking system, dispatches are made on a timely basis thus improving quality of service.

GPS system works in most areas including metropolitan and rural areas. Using the tracking system to dispatch employees and define routes will help to keep windshield time to a minimum. It avoids drivers passing each other en-route, cutting down on fuel consumption and wasted time.

Another great benefit of using the GPS fleet tracking system is to help drivers in navigation. Without GPS tracking, drivers can waste a lot of time driving in the wrong direction, looking for streets, asking for directions or stopping to check the map. A GPS fleet tracking system provides real time navigation for the driver, thus saving time and fuel expenses.

GPS fleet tracking system can be used to ensure that your staff is doing their jobs. It can track drivers so you know their whereabouts during working hours and acts as a deterrent to those who tend to shirk.

Besides supplying real time information, GPS fleet tracking system can provide reports of historical tracking which can be beneficial to staff. If there are any complaints from customers about time of arrival or the length of time spent at the location, these concerns can be verified from past record of GPS tracking.

GPS fleet tracking system reduces the risks of vehicle theft and employee fraud. If you are utilizing it in your fleet management, you should be able to negotiate a discount with your vehicle insurance provider.

GPS fleet tracking is a great technology that helps any business to improve productivity, reduce costs and increase profitability. It is not only used for managing mobile assets but also employees in any service, delivery or sales organization. Although initial capital investment in a tracking system is high, the benefits far outweigh the costs in the long run. Some GPS suppliers offer leasing or negotiable payment installment.

Article Source: http://www.a1-articledirectory.com
By: Alvin Toh

Eagle Seachamp - Big Screen, Big Color Gps Fish Finder

You get big screen, big color performance with a WAAS GPS-Chartplotter with Dual Frequency Sounder

The Eagle Sea Champ 1000C is a great tool. Yes, we can not say it any simpler! It offers you some of the best features in fish finding gear. You will be impressed with its precision and its high quality as well. Here, let’s take a look at some of the features that makes this fishfinder something similar to the perfect tool. Here are some of the Sea Champ's features.

You can start by checking out the Eagle Sea Champ's awesome display. It is six inches big, just about the right size for easy viewing as you relax on your boat. It also has other features on the display that make it a good one including ultra bright for easy viewing in almost any type of light, 256 colors active matrix TFT LCD, high definition resolution and fluorescent cold cathode backlit screen and keypad. So, what does all of that give you? It delivers a clear picture that is easy to read. It gives you a picture that you can react to, meaning that you can see what type of fish are down there, the type of structure and even the size of the fish so that you can react and do what you need to, to get the big catch on board! It can be used in just about any light including at night!

Still, there is more. The Eagle Sea Champ also features some of the best in sonar. It has the capability of going 1500 feet down making it a great distance fishfinding unit. It's technology separates fish from nearby structures or the bottom which will help you determine not just that something is there but what is there. This helps you decide if it’s something you should go after or not.

Still, there is much more. The GPS + WASS reception uses satellite technology to pinpoint your location to a few yards. This will help you to know where you are and where you need to go. You won’t get lost if you turn around too many times. All in all, this Sea Champ will deliver for you all of the features that you need to capture the fish that you need and want!

Go home with a full cooler thanks to this awesome tool!
By: Cinneide

Gps Vehicle Tracking - A Guide To The Tools Available

GPS – What does it stand for?

Global Positioning System – Now, it is mainly used for navigation, both terrestrial and marine. Initially it was used by the U.S. military for locating and identifying friends as well as foes. The system uses military and commercial satellites for tracking anything that moves and has an emitter with or on it. Error margins, for GPS, are nowadays within 100 meters, and this can be narrowed down by using differential base stations (DBS). However, they are hard to use since their range is quite limited.

A new substitute for the American satellites will be the Galileo Satellite System, developed and realized in Europe. The first satellite, called Glove, was launched in late 2005 from Baikonur, Russian Federation.

GPS – What can I do with it?

Here are just a few of this wonderful piece of equipment. For instance, if you get lost, your GPS unit can pinpoint you your current position, or, it can make a breeze from an awful task such as planning a trip. However, its main uses are in vehicle tracking. Most trucking companies have GPS units on all of their trucks. This way it is very easy to finding out where a trucker has been to, or where he currently is. Since the first GPS units were installed on trucks and cars, specialized companies and sites appeared.

Lets look at a two GPS units and their characteristics.

Garmin StreetPilot 2730

This is one of the latest products available on the market. Its producer presents it as being a “great utility, even when drivers know exactly where they are.” Some of its features include access to the XM NavTraffic (a data-traffic information service, based on low orbit satellites, covering all of the USA), allowing it to suggest faster routes, before traffic-jam. The navigation map on StreetPilot 2730, graphically represents any incident affecting the road, including man-made, like road-construction, or accidents. Weather forecasts are also shown on the GPS unit, for as many as 162 cities. The StreetPilot 2730, also reads MP3s, and the music can be sent to the car’s stereo through its stereo jack or through a FM transmitter. The unit is equipped with an antenna, Garmin GXM 30, which can be placed on the roof of the car, or on the dashboard. It is waterproof and has a magnetic end, for easier placement.

Initial GD-70X

This “little” gizmo has a 7” color LCD, the obvious GPS navigational system, as well as a DVD player, thus making it ideal for family vacations. It can pinpoint your location on the map, as well as playback your favorite movie or tracks. It has a set of maps which includes both Canada ant the US. Its map database includes over two million points of interest and it has a 250MB internal memory, large enough for downloading maps and POIs. An interesting feature are the voice directions, which will help you focus on the road, an still know where you are, and what kind of conditions you are facing out there. Also, it includes a day/night mode, making it easier to read according to the time of use. The incorporated CD/DVD player can keep the passengers entertained as well, and if you don’t have a car stereo (who doesn’t), you can always listen to its built-in stereo speakers.

These are just two of the many products on the market that can help you with GPS vehicle tracking.

Article Source: http://www.a-zz.com

Steve Armstrong produces www.gps-vehicle-tracking-pa.com which is full of information on GPS vehicle tracking

Find and Catch Those Pesky Fish with a Garmin 240 Fish Finde

* By ContentMart Editor
* Published 01/20/2005
* Sports Outdoor
* Rating: Unrated

ContentMart Editor


View all articles by ContentMart Editor
Find and Catch Those Pesky Fish with a Garmin 240 Fish Finde


Garmin 240 Fish Finder Depthfinder with Transducer - a review

The lakes that I normally fish are deep and quite rocky, and I have been delighted with the performance of the Garmin 240 Fish Finder, which gives a clear picture of what lies below. The image of the bottom shows great detail, and if it is showing fish presence then you can guarantee they will be there. It does a good job of indicating non-fishlines as well. It is at its best when performing in deep water, but perhaps isn't as impressive in shallow water.

The Depth Control feature works well in continuing to monitor changes in water depth automatically while the Whiteline feature determins bottom hardness well. The screen is easy to read, even in the dark when the backlight comes into its own. You can see the controls easily.

The Garmin 240 Fish Finder is packed full of features for less money than my old Lowrance, while the features are easily compatible."

Features

The 240-by-240 pixel high-definition display gives you a clear picture of fish, thermoclines, structure and bottom surface. By using various shades of gray, the Fishfinder 240 paints a beautiful picture, leaving little to interpretation.

Operational features include a unique control bar that identifies the most commonly used fishing settings. So without hunting through complicated menus, you can quickly configure and save the settings you want. As lake conditions change, you can fine- tune your Fishfinder 240 on the fly.

Garmin's engineering edge includes See-ThruTM technology, a Garmin exclusive. This allows the Garmin 240 Fish Finder to hear both weak and strong signals simultaneously so you to identify fish returns under the toughest conditions: suspended in thermoclines or even hiding near structure.

Another exclusive feature is Depth Controlled Gain (DCGTM), which automatically adjusts fishfinder sensitivity according to depth, not echo intensity like other fishfinders. The result is a much more detailed and accurate picture of bottom structure.

And we've often heard stories about folks who have found a great fishing spot one day, only to be unable to find it again the next day. With the Garmin 240 Fish Finder that's never a problem again.

Finding and Catching Fish has never been easier with the Gar

The Garmin Fishfinder 250 is Garmin's latest addition to their family of marine chartplotters, handheld GPS, fish finders and GPS sounders and its already gaining a great reputation amongst the angling community.

We met up with Johnathan W Ross, a surgeon and keen fisherman to find out his views on the new Garmin 250.


FFR How long have you had the Garmin 250?
JWR I purchased the 250 fish finder as a replacement for my obselete Garmin 160 fish finder. I have had the 250 for six months and I'm more than pleased with it.

FFR How do you find the display compared to the Garmin 160?
JWR The display on the Garmin 250 is much more detailed than the 160. It has twice the definition of the older model which means that what you see on the screen is in great detail. Something called Depth Control Gain gives really detailed images.

FFR Do you fish different types of water?
JWR I fish in both fresh water and salt water, and the Garmin 250 works well in both situations.

FFR Did you notice better performance in shallower waters?
JWR I have the version with dual-frequency sonar which is made for deeper waters, to a depth of 1500'. There is a version of the Garmin 250 with single-frequency which will be better for shallow waters, and its cheaper too!

FFR Have you customized your 250 fish finder?
JWR I have connected a Garmin GPS receiver (which I bought separately) to the unit. I can now mark waypoints directly from the Fishfinder's keypad.

FFR So is the 250 a fish finder that is easy to use?
JWR Very easy. It works out of the box, so no complicated set-up. It's very slim so it doesn't get in the way when its mounted - I've got mine on the bow. Its mounted on a swivel so that it can be viewed from any angle. The buttons are easy to use, too, even with gloves on.

Navigating on the Mountain, in Water, or in Woods there is a

Truly a small wonder, the eTrex takes the best features of a 12 parallel channel GPS receiver and put them into a six ounce package that is only four inches high and two inches wide. The result is a unit that will literally fit in the palm of your hand.

Besides its small size, mariners and outdoorsmen will likely notice the sleek design of the eTrex.

All buttons are located on either side of the unit, allowing for simple, one-handed operation that won't obstruct your view of the display. In fact, the eTrex features only five operator buttons for the ultimate in user-friendly design.

Inside the eTrex, you will find the proven performance of a 12 parallel channel GPS receiver that will run for 18 hours on just two AA batteries.

No need to worry about dense tree canopy with this unit, the eTrex will continue to maintain a tight satellite lock even while operating in forest-like conditions. The eTrex will store up to 500 user waypoints with graphic icons and boasts Garmin's exclusive TracBack� feature that will reverse your track log and help you navigate your way back home. In addition, the eTrex uses animated graphics that will help you identify your marked waypoints quickly and easily.

The Garmin eTrex family consists of six members - the eTrex, eTrex Camo, eTrex Summit, eTrex Legend, eTrex Venture and eTrex Vista.

The family retain the same basic features one of the best-selling handheld GPS systems on the market, and has adapted them to add some unique features to make each of them the perfect tool for their intended users.

How to Choose a GPS

You've heard that new sport, geocaching, is fun. Or, you're tired of getting lost on your travels. Welcome to the 21st century. Global Postioning System (GPS) has been around long enough that prices are reasonable and the technology is user-friendly. With myriad brands and models, how to choose?

If you want a GPS for both hiking and driving use, then a handheld unit would be the way to go. Some handhelds even have accessories to allow them to be installed in an automobile. But don't 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 either mapping or non--mapping. A basic, non--mapping unit can often cost less than $100 US and usually 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 ability to display maps. The maps are either pre--loaded or uploaded from your PC. Prices are reasonable for mapping units, starting at around $150 US.

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

I mentioned earlier your considering a PDA with GPS capability. A PDA is bulkier and the battery life is usually shorter, but if you're using a PDA anyway, then there are several 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 probably 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 around $250 US. These provide turn--by--turn guidance. Spend 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 manufacturers now offer built-in GPS receivers as an option. Because they are built-in, the big advantages are security and aesthetics. They are quite 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.

A PDA/GPS is a good alternative for automotive use. Its screen is about the size of an automotive unit, so seeing the display is not a problem. They can also be powered by the car, eliminating battery worries. The Garmin PDAs mentioned above both come with the hardware and software for automotive use.

If you're hiking, a basic handheld unit (without maps) will be fine since you'll always have paper maps with you anyway (you will, won't you?). An advantage to a handheld mapping unit is that they usually have more advanced features than the basic units. For driving, you have the choice of a handheld, in--car dedicated, or PDA. The handheld does have limited usefulness in a car, as it does not provide turn--by--turn guidance. For a more detailed look at how to choose a GPS, click here.

GPS Navigation Systems: Ditch The Paper Map For A GPS Navigation Device

Are you still using paper maps to navigate in your car? Of all the high tech gadgets that have become popular in the 21st century, the GPS navigation device is one of the best and must-have. This device can help you tool around town or guide you on a cross-country trip. Convenient and helpful, GPS navigation systems come in a wide range of styles and prices. Depending on what you need and want in a GPS unit, you can surely find one within your budget.

A GPS navigation device can save you time by helping to guide you to your destination. You don't need to waste time looking at a map or stopping to ask for direction along the way. Instead, you'll have instant access to your directions in real-time format.

It is cumbersome to look at a paper map while driving. The only safe way of looking at it is to pull over to the side of the road or get a passenger to read it for you.

For female drivers who drive alone or at night, traveling with a gps navigation system offers safety and prevents them from getting lost. They don't have to stop at unknown places to ask strangers for direction.

The GPS navigation system is like having a map that is constantly updated with the latest information. No more guessing is involved. The GPS device gets its information from a large bank of data that is constantly being updated to ensure accuracy.

For the most complete navigation, choose a system that gives you both audio and graphical directions. This allows you to see the map on the screen as well as to hear the specific spoken directions. Some GPS navigation systems integrate the radio speaker system to speak to you. Before purchasing a GPS device, be sure to think about your need for audio and visual guidance.

There are various brands, features and types of GPS navigation systems to choose from. More sophisticated systems obviously will cost more than simpler models. Some units are portable and can plug into the cigarette lighter. Others require technical installation. Keep in mind that some manufacturers will void the warranty unless the unit is installed by a certified dealer. As technology is constantly evolving, you should purchase a GPS navigation device that is upgradable.

Think about how you will be using your GPS navigation system. Some units can tell you where the nearest point of interest. For example, you can ask to search for the nearest grocery store and the GPS device may be able to give you several options along with directions. Stucked in a traffic jam? Use a GPS navigation device to help find alternative routes. If you want to get your destination in the quickest way, a GPS system can give you direction and time of travel.

GPS navigation devices are becoming cheaper. You can get a basic one for less than $200 and it can do much more than paper maps. Isn't it time to ditch the paper map for a gps navigation device?

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GPS navigation device is becoming an indispensable gadget that most people don't leave home without. There are gps navigation systems to suit every budget and needs. Check out our top resources on the latest car gps navigation systems at www.gpstrackingsys.com