GPS is a global system consisting of satellites that orbit around the Earth. With a GPS receiver, the system can track your movements and is used in place of a map for many to get around. This system can be found as an option in almost all new cars, helping people get about in strange areas. A handheld GPS is more often used for outdoor activities where getting lost is a major concern and maybe very dangerous.
Some people like to track where they go on a hike. There is comfort in knowing that they system is working for you. Getting lost is almost impossible since the unit can give you real-time directions to stored waypoints and safety.
GPS can track you from where you started and point you to where you want to go. It can measure your speed and location to track yourself as you travel. Based on how quickly you are moving it can calculate when you will reach your destination, and measure distances and display them in miles and feet.
The handheld models can be used in the car as well. A dedicated car model is often directly mounted in the dashboard, must be plugged in to the cigarette lighter, or it is just too large to comfortably carry. Handheld ones run on battery power and frequently have the option of being plugged in.
Geocaching is also a fun activity for GPS users. You can get mystery coordinates from a number of website, pointing to stashes of treasure to find. It really is a grow-up version of a scavenger hunt where the thrill is in finding whatever is left at the end of the trail. There are etiquette rules involved, so know those before you go, but it is a fun outdoor activity for the whole family.
Check out some recommended handheld GPS units. Many other interesting stories about science and the outdoors can be found at Boneblogger.
Check Out Handheld GPS Deals At Amazon
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Garmin eTrex 20 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator List Price: Sale Price: $166.00  |
DescriptionGarmin's eTrex GPS series offers reliable satellite navigation, making it a favorite of hikers, hunters, and geocachers. The eTrex 20 is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a 2.2-inch color display, and ships with a worldwide basemap with relief... |
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Garmin 72H Waterproof Handheld GPS with High-Sensitivity List Price: Sale Price: $118.00 |
DescriptionMake a splash with the GPS 72H, a lightweight, waterproof handheld that floats. Simple yet robust, the GPS 72H features high-sensitivity GPS and a USB connection along with its large screen, simple operation and rock-solid performance... |
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Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver List Price: Sale Price: $105.00 |
DescriptioneTrex Venture HC is an essential for any outdoor excursion. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver for peak performance in any environment and includes 24 megabytes (MB) of internal memory, a detailed basemap and crisp color screen... |
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Garmin Approach G6 Handheld Touchscreen Golf Course GPS Sale Price: $299.99 |
DescriptionIn golf, innovation is the name of the game. The software and design innovations packed into the Approach G6 are designed to take your game to the next level. With more than 25,000 preloaded worldwide courses (no subscriptions or fees) and an internal rechargeable battery, the Approach G6 is the ultimate instrument for the serious player... |
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Garmin GPSMAP 62S Handheld GPS Navigator List Price: Sale Price: $366.00 |
DescriptionThe newly designed GPSMAP 62s handheld navigator features a 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, a barometric altimeter and supports Custom Maps, BirdsEye Satellite imagery (subscription required) and photo navigation... |
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