Selecting a GPS unit
There are a few important
differences in GPS units that should be addressed before making a
purchase. We’ll keep this tutorial primarily related to handheld
units, which are the choice for hiking and
backpacking.
Manufacturers typically produce two types of
handhelds. These are Basic and Mapping units. Below are a few
general points about each version that should help you choose the
appropriate unit for your needs. After
reviewing the information below, you may wish to checkout
our side by side comparison of popular Garmin GPS features. We’ve listed the
most popular handheld units and listed several features for each one
Basic Units:
- Look for units with 12 parellel channel capability.(this simply
means they can track up to 12 satellites for better speed and
accuracy especially under tree cover)
- Generally do not include pre-loaded maps and are not capable of
having maps installed into them.
- Typically do not include additional memory.
- Primary function is to record waypoints and tracks.
- Find a unit that has trackback capability such as Garmin's
TracBack™ feature.(this feature will allow your GPS unit to guide
you back to your starting point.)
- Most basic and mapping GPS units are either completely
waterproof or at least submersible for up to a specified number of
minutes.
- Basic units are a good value if you only wish to record
Latitude, Longitude, and waypoints.
Mapping Units:
- These models provide several more features over most basic
gps.
- Generally contain pre-loaded points of interest maps or a
detailed basemap.
- Allow for downloading more detailed maps including topographic
and highly detailed street maps.
- Additional memory can range from 1 megabyte to 20
megabytes.
- Garmin models come with a PC interface cable as part of the
package.
- Virtually all of these are 12 parellel channel and some now
include WAAS (wide area augmentation system) accuracy. This is a
combination of ground and satellite positioning that is still in
developement.
- Some of the higher end models also include barometric
altimeters and electronic compasses.
- Some manufacturers also produce vehicle mounting brackets for
your handheld unit so they can also be used as an automotive
unit.
So, what do I use and how well
does it work?
After much deliberation I chose
the Garmin eTrex® Legend. This unit provides WAAS capability
with a detailed basemap and the ability to download topo and points
of interest maps. The topo maps are an excellent resource when
hiking and backpacking. This model also provides elevation, elapsed
time, an odometer, and many other features. You can
click here to view
a few different types of both basic and mapping gps
units.
In addition to those features, the unit
itself has performed quite well, even in forested areas and is
fairly simple to use. I did find that it works best attached to the
shoulder strap of your backpack.
