Navigational and GPS Devices
Global Positioning Systems (GPSs) were first used by the military and then by the serious sportsmen such as ocean sailors and off road adventurers. But today, GPSs are becoming more common -- offered as add on features to cars, phones and computers. So handy are these devices, that they'll soon replace paper maps -- which tell you everything except what a GPS does: tell you exactly where you are in relation to the map! GPSs receive signals from numerous satellites which orbit the earth -- this means you'll get coverage in even the remotest places. So if you're the type of person who likes to spend time in bush -- hiking or camping, or out on the water, then you'll want to consider buying a GPS, if for no other reason than pure safety.
Types of Navigational Devices
GPSs come in four main types: automotive, handheld, marine and recreation. There are also GPS devices designed specifically for runners, which track speed, distance and course. These devices are usually made in combination with heart rate monitors. 
For those who like to keep things simple, don't forget that GPSs are also available on smartphones and PDAs, eliminating the need to carry an arsenal of electronics with you wherever you go. In short, no matter what your needs, there is a GPS device for you.
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Handheld - Ideal for hikers, campers and others who spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Lightweight, but with a smaller LCD screen than other models.
- Some can be mounted inside a car, but the small screen makes them less than ideal for driving.
- Check out: Magellan eXplorist 210.
- $180 - $1300.
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Car - These usually have larger screens for easy viewing while driving.
- A noteworthy feature of a car GPS system is voice-activation or text-to-voice directions.
- The majority come with mounting equipment for easy installation.
- Some have emergency alert with the push of a button.
- Check out: Garmin's StreePilot 2610.
- $450 - $1300.
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Marine - Tracks position, speed and drift, as well as depth, contours and water temperature.
- Completely waterproof.
- Large sunlight-readable backlit display.
- Multifunctional colour displays and high speed processors mean many marine GPS are now offered with chart plotting functions -- handy for locating boat ramps, marinas and fishing zones.
- Check out: Garmin GPSMAP3006C.
- $950 - $4100.
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Sport & Fitness - Runners and cyclists can now track their progress as they speed across any terrain, thanks to a range of sport fitness GPSs.
- Garmin Forerunner features include: Goto navigation, speed, distance, time, and some models have heart monitor, training feedback and PC interface.
- For cycling, Garmin Edge has the above features plus calories burned and altitude.
- No calibration needed -- just turn it on and go!
- $200 - $550.
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Handheld GPS Systems
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What to look for in a handheld GPS system: - Weight: if you're hiking or backpacking, every ounce counts. Conversely, durability is also important.
- 12 Channel Parallel Receiver: For hikers and off-road travellers, these receivers will give the best service.
- Map Screen: Certain devices only display relative longitude and latitude lines. Be sure your model is map-ready.
- Waterproof : You don't want your GPS to short out when it rains or if you fall in a stream.
- Long Battery Life: Carrying multiple batteries around can certainly be a pain.
- Waypoints: Most sites recommend a GPS unit with storage for at least 500 waypoints.
- Compass: Help you get to the next waypoint.
- Screen Characteristics
- Colour vs. B&W: Some colour screens are hard to read in sunlight. The exception is 256-colour transreflective screens.
- Size may also be a factor. Consider how small a screen you can read comfortably.
- Route Capacity: Most devices can hold at least 20 routes, while some may hold as many as 50. The more, the better.
- Topographic Maps: If you plan to do a lot of bushwalking, elevation and small stream data will definitely come in handy.
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Car GPS Devices
Marine GPS Devices
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What to Look for in a Marine GPS: - Screen resolution: Make sure you get a unit with enough resolution to provide the detail you need when using charts. 320 x 240 pixels is plenty, but also look for one that you'll be able to read in strong sunlight and while wearing sunnies.
- Memory: If you're planning on using chart and navigational features, better make sure you have lots of memory for loading data. At least 16MB is recommended.
- SD card slot: for loading marine chart data and additional memory.
- Features: such as fish finder, depth sounder, contours, buoys and other navigational aids, charts, boat ramps and marine park zones.
- Water resistant: of course.
- Lots and lots of waypoints: You'll be surprised how fast you use these up marking your favourite fishing spots. Look for units that offer different symbols and the ability to record comments.
- External antenna: will provide a much stronger signal.
- Pan and zoom features: for getting a close-up or step back look at where you are.
- Compass: A graphic steering guidance will make driving a straight course so much easier.
- Back track - or snail trail: displays a path of your course -- great for finding your way back to the ramp in low-visibility weather.
- Power: Hardwire or 240V charger/ power supply.
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Important Features On Any GPS Device
- High-resolution screen that will be bright and easy to read.
- Make sure that the screen will hold up to the sunlight, like in the case of this Garmin 76C.
- A simple button pattern that will be easy to use.
- A fast processor for rapid recalculation.
- A decent battery life (many models are very poor so it's good to research this a bit before buying).
When Basic Isn't Good Enough
The latest in GPS technology comes not as a stand-alone device, but integrated into your PDA. It takes some time to setup the mapping software, but if you want an all-in-one organizer plus navigation system, a compatible PDA would be a great choice. One drawback of multi-functional devices is the cost. If you are interested in a Smartphone (PDA/mobile phone combination), such as the new Treo, you can expect to be paying around $80 just for services. For PDAs and laptops, make sure you get a good product bundle that includes a wide array of maps.
As devices become further integrated, multi-functionality is what distinguishes the best from the merely adequate. Here are some forward-looking navigation systems that give consumers a little something extra. Whether it be DVD playback or landmark recognition, these devices each have a special something that makes them worth a look.
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