Wednesday, 18 January 2012

Are You Starting The Search For Your Perfect Handheld Nav System ? These Are Five Things You Must Consider First!

By Jeff Hazelton


While you are traveling in nature, it is essential to have the right equipment for your safety and protection. While walking 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 not so familiar with the location.

There are a lots Of of GPS Navigation systems available on the marketplace currently. The wide variety of brands and model types make the selection of a perfect GPS confusing and challenging. Companies offer different features at times, and they also come in a broad spectrum of prices. So, it is very important for you to know what factors you should consider before you purchase one. It is helpful if you try to get a clear picture in your head of what you are looking for.

Generally, navigation systems function as your directional guide. It helps you get from one location to another. This is accomplished by creating waypoints. Imagine you are walking in a maze, and in order to return to your starting place, you need to leave some markers, which will make it simple for you. The waypoints are more or less the same. They are like sub-stations that help you find your way back, just in case you become lost. This is such an important feature of a GPS, especially for rugged places. When you are hunting, this can become very beneficial. So, first thing you have to check is the navigation system capability to provide you waypoints. It will also be fantastic if the model is capable of adding up or storing additional mapping points in its memory.

Another thing you should consider is the ability of your navigation system to reach rough places. You must be aware that not all nav systems can pick up strong signals from satellites. If you are planning for an outdoor adventure, this detail is critical.

Having a Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) enabled GPS Navigation system it will certainly make it enjoyable for you to enjoy hiking with comfort. Wide Area Augmentation Sytem (WAAS) is a satellite system that works with ground stations that gives a GPS receiver signal corrections, thus providing you an accurate location than a standard device reading. In regular conditions, it can pinpoint your location five times better than a traditional GPS reading. If your unit is WAAS-enabled, then it will provide you a position accuracy a few meters.

In addition, from its necessary functions, you must also keep in mind the physical characteristics your GPS device offers. Being handy while outdoors is an essential detail. Having a device that is not bulky or heavy will be a plus factor for your trip. Convenience in using the product is also vital. Display screens can be a consideration, as well. I prefer the colored ones, as they are easier 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 rough wilderness without any idea where you might be. Make sure that the GPS offers a decent running time for its batteries.

At the top of the leading brands in the market today, I suggest the Garmin eTrex Legend HCx. This GPS device 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 anti-glare display screen that is readable even in direct sunlight. The eTrex Legend has taken into consideration all of the important needs of outdoors enthusiasts and have not missed an opportunity to impress.




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