| When looking for a good GPS, it is easy to get | | | | Trip Computer |
| overwhelmed when comparing the many features | | | | A trip computer will display useful data such as |
| that are available. First, decide what you will be | | | | trip distance, odometer reading, average speed, |
| using the GPS for. If it will just be for use in your | | | | current speed, trip distance, and trip timer. |
| car then you would not need some of the | | | | Alarms |
| features that would appeal to hikers, boaters, or | | | | Units are available that will alert you if you are off |
| pilots. Some of the extra features will require that | | | | course, upcoming approach and arrival, and |
| you pay an extra monthly fee, while the basic | | | | upcoming waypoints. In the event you are using |
| GPS satellite system is free to use. All you need | | | | the GPS unit in your boat, you will be warned of |
| is a GPS receiver unit and some batteries and | | | | shallow water and obstructions. |
| you are good to go. | | | | Basemap Units |
| Screen | | | | Look for receivers that include current, built-in |
| One of the most important features on a GPS is | | | | mapping software. Good software should include |
| the screen. Look for a screen that is easy to | | | | major highways, cities, rivers, lake, and airports. |
| read and features high contrast color LCDs. A | | | | An important feature is the ability to easily |
| transflective screen is easier to view in the bright | | | | download updated and more detailed mapping |
| sun. If the model you choose does not feature a | | | | data as it becomes available. You will likely have to |
| transflective screen, you could consider adding a | | | | purchase the additional software, but the ability to |
| screen hood to the unit. | | | | access the location of gas stations, banks, |
| Dashboard Mount | | | | restaurants and off road trails is valuable. You |
| If you will be using the GPS unit in your car or | | | | want a system that allows you to upgrade the |
| boat, you will want to look for a package that | | | | maps so you can always access new roads or |
| includes an easy to install dashboard mount. | | | | developments. |
| Touch-screen Navigation | | | | Start-Up Time |
| Touch screen navigation is a great feature that | | | | Shop for a unit that features a fast start-up time. |
| makes navigation as simple as tapping the screen | | | | A satellite that connects to 32 satellites will start |
| instead of pressing buttons. | | | | up quicker than one that connects to 12. |
| Voice Prompts | | | | Technology |
| The quality of the audio is important. Look for | | | | Any system you consider should include the Sirf |
| clear audio quality with sufficient volume control. | | | | III chip. This is the latest technology and will locate |
| You must be able to hear the directions even if | | | | satellites quickly. Models that do not include this |
| you are driving at higher speeds, people are | | | | should be avoided. |
| talking, or you are listening to the radio. Some | | | | Portability |
| units have very powerful speakers built in while | | | | The ability to remove the GPS unit from your car |
| others feature a FM transmitter that broadcasts | | | | is important if you plan to do any hiking, |
| the directions through your car radio. | | | | backpacking, or hunting. |
| Routes | | | | Extra Features |
| A very handy feature is the ability to load and | | | | While extra features will not affect the ability to |
| recall previously used routes. This feature will also | | | | access directions and locations, they can be a lot |
| store all of the waypoints along the way as well | | | | of fun. There are some systems that allow you |
| as reverse directions. | | | | to play XM radio, DVD's, MP3s and videos. |