What You should Know about Handheld GPS
July 5th, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed
A Global Positioning System or GPS was originally developed and operated by the US Department of Defense. Prior to it being used for commercial purposes GPS was utilized by the government for 24 hour navigation for sea, ground and air operations.
There came a point when the GPS became extensively used for commercial purposes, there capabilities expanded to include movement and monitoring of people, forestry, cartography, mineral exploration, and tracking down of wildlife that is endangered within their natural habitat and as well as many more uses.
Originally, the GPS is operated on big computer systems but eventually; it has developed into something smaller - the handheld GPS. The good news about the handheld GPS is that it functions just like the GPS in more elaborate machines and it allows the user to generate information anytime and anywhere he or she may be. Handheld GPS have now gained such a following that there are so many people all over the globe that constantly rely on the handheld GPS to help them navigate around the world and locate areas which are even beyond the navigation and location determination in the past.
Popular Handheld GPS Models
There are many handheld GPS models that are available in the market nowadays. One of the most popular models of a handheld Garmin GPS System is the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx, which is considered as the fastest when it comes to locking onto the satellite. This handheld GPS is equipped with a 2.6 inch color screen, a barometric altimeter, an electronic compass and a special Geocaching menu.
However, despite the fact that this handheld GPS is loaded with many functions, it only weights about seven ounces and could run for approximately 18 hours using two AA batteries. The Garmin GPS is rubberized and is water resistant. If you intend to wade or swim on your trip, you could count on this handheld GPS to survive.
Another popular handheld GPS device is the Magellan eXplorist XL. This particular handheld GPS is equipped with a 3.5 inch color screen which is viewable even when exposed to sunlight. Because of the large screen of this particular Magellan model you have the benefit when looking at the maps and obtaining information you need from them.
However, the challenge of the Magellan GPS is that unlike the Garmin GPS, it is not equipped with an electronic compass or an altimeter. This unique GPS also has a weight of about 12 ounces, which is somewhat heavy when you compare it to the Garmin. With the use of four AA batteries the battery life of the Magellan is roughly 15 hours.
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Related Tags: handheld GPS, car navigation gps, garmin gps, GPS device, gps system, Magellan eXplorist XL
Shopping For That Magellan GPS Deal
June 23rd, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed
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Magellan Maestro 3100 Portable Auto GPS System for Continental U.S.
Average Customer Review:  (12 customer reviews)
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There are many different brands of GPS tracking system receivers to choose from, Magellan GPS being one of them. Numerous people buy these systems to use as a car navigation GPS to assist with directions, or monitor teen driving, or to track their vehicle in case it gets stolen. Still others have these handheld GPS receivers to take hiking or hunting to help keep them from getting lost. Regardless of what your purpose is for purchasing and using a Magellan GPS, you should do your research first then shop around for the best features at the best price.
First Impressions
Before you buy a GPS system it is best to decide what features you want the most from it. Is it more important that it be rugged or light? Is battery life a concern? Does the hardware come with a manufacturer’s guarantee? Also, all GPS systems will need occasional software updates. That is, you need to load new maps onto a GPS receiver periodically. And like any software, it will need patches sometimes. No matter where you buy, find out what kind of tech support the dealer offers, and compare prices on any monthly monitoring before you make your choice.
Shopping in a Local Store
Many stores, especially outdoors and automotive stores carry Magellan GPS systems. If you have a loyalty card or some other way to get a discount in a store, that may be the best way to buy. Especially around the holidays, stores may be giving away remarkable discounts. GPS prices can range from as little as $100 to as much as $1000. It is best to use promotions that allow a percentage off as opposed to a set amount for big-ticket item.
On the Web
Internet shopping is probably more convenient, and you will be able to easily see all the accessories and options available with a Magellan GPS system. However, you must, of course be careful when shopping on the internet; only use sites that are reputable. Reputable sites will include a physical address and phone number, a secure server for credit card transactions, and will have good reviews on sites like epinions .com. It is best to only use a site when you have read positive testimonials about it
Your first stop would be to check Magellan’s own company website. On the first page, you’ll find that it has a listing of the most current promotions. Even in the event that you choose not to purchase a Magellan GPS straight from the manufacturer, you can get a basic idea of the prices, how often you need software updates, and the range of products available by researching their website first.
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Related Tags: handheld GPS, car navigation gps, garmin gps, GPS device, gps system, Magellan eXplorist XL
