Trying to decide which GPS unit and accessories to get could be overwhelming, especially with the number of choices on the market today. Think about what you mainly want to use the unit for: driving, boating, flying, diving, hunting, fishing, biking, hiking, etc. Since all GPS units can show your position and basic navigation information, an inexpensive entry-level unit can be a great way to enter the world of GPS navigation. All Garmin GPS units also have a backlight feature which will allow you to use your GPS both day and night. Choosing a unit with more features, as mapping detail, can provide an entirely new level of position awareness and navigation capability, while still being easy to operate.
Consider these issues when selecting a GPS unit:
Battery life – If you are going to using the unit away from an auxiliary power source, consider the weight of carrying extra batteries. Units with color displays tend to have decreases battery life compared to grayscale displays, requiring more frequent battery changes.
Size and Weight – GPS units are available in an array of different sizes and shape: small lightweight handhelds, large display chartplotters and panel mounted aviation models.
Antenna Configuration – Are you going to be using the unit mainly in open area? How about in the car? Whether you need a unit with a build-in antenna and the capacity to attach an external antenna, a fixed mount unit with mountable external antenna, or an aviation antenna.
DGPS Capability – Do you need the best accuracy possible? If so, combining a Differential GPS (DGPS) receiver with your GPS unit will give you the best accuracy possible. However, in my experience most of the GPS first time user no need this capability.
Price – What type of unit fit your price range?
Source: modified from Garmin Tips
Friday, March 14, 2008
GPS: Purchasing Decision
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