Things to consider before buying a portable GPS device

portable gps
Portable gps devices are quite convenient.  You can take them anywhere.  This is the number one reason why many people wants one, especially those who are into such sporting activities such as hiking, hunting or camping.  

Since they are affordable many more people are able to buy them now.  Yet, before you go off and buy one you should consider a few things.

First, you should understand how a GPS device works.  GPS stands for global positioning system.  It works through a computer system and satellites which orbits the Earth.  Together, these computers and satellites can pinpoint a precise destination, person or find directions to a certain spot.   They can do these by tracking simple radio, computer or other modem technologies. 

GPS systems was first introduced by the Defense Department for military purposes.  But now they have advanced to the consumer market as well.

A portable gps system is one that can be carried around easily or moved from point to point easily.  They can come in a number of sizes.  They also have a variety of capabilities. Of course, the more functions a unit has, the chances are the more expensive it is to purchase.

Before you go shopping for your next or first portable GPS device, it is a good idea to actually think about the capabilities or functions that are actually necessary for you and your needs.   By doing this, you may be able to fight the urge to buy a more expensive model, with extra functions, that aren’t really necessary for your use.

One thing you should realize is the fact that you may have to purchase a higher price device to get a good signal.  All GPS systems must have a clear access to the sky in able to work properly.  If buildings, trees or vegetation blocks that access, the system can not function or signals will drop off and on.   If you plan on spending a lot of time in these types of areas (for instance hiking in a forest), then you may need to purchase a GPS device that has a higher frequency level and this means that it will more than likely have a higher price tag as well.

What else should you consider?

What about the time in which it takes the GPS device to start?  Some systems, even the portable ones, will start quicker than others.  Some have what is considered a long or cold start up time.  This means it could take a few minutes before it is up and running.  Are you the patient type?  Will this annoy to no extreme?   Inquire about the start up time when purchasing a model.

What about the time it takes to charge the battery or batteries?  Most portable GPS devices will run off of the common AAA battery or a built in rechargeable battery.   You should inquire about how long it takes for the battery to charge and the estimate time of life for the battery or battery charge.  Generally, the first charge will take the longest amount of time.

Mapping capabilities is definitely a consideration that must not be overlooked.  This is how you will find your way from place to place.  You need to not only be able to understand it.  You need to like the size of the screen, the format, the color and even the style.   Colored screens usually cost more than the black and white ones do.  But most people prefer these because they say they are easier to understand and read.

You should also inquire about how the unit is able to update its mapping functions.  The two basic ways that portable GPS devices do this is by connecting to a computer or a flash memory card.  (Generally speaking those units that can connect to the computer to update their map functions are usually cheaper than those that uses flash memory cards).

You should also consider the type of device you want.  You can choose from such devices as:

Pocket sized portable GPS which usually runs from recharegable batteries.  These can also be used in automobiles.

PDA’s devices which are equipped with GPS capabilities.  These usually run on rechargeable batteries.

Cell phones that are equipped with GPS capabilities.   These are also run from rechargeable batteries.

If you are considering buying a new or your first portable GPS system, you will be glad to know that you won’t need to hire anyone to install anything.  You just turn the system on and it is ready to go.  You also don’t have to pay any activation fees or monthly payments.  If you choose to purchase a subscription such as traffic information, satellite or weather information, then you will have a subscription price.

Your final consideration is this.  Would a portable GPS system make you feel more secure the next time you are out on the hiking trail or looking for that cool vacation site?

Most people will remember Whistler as the company who made some of the best radar detectors ever. Well they have transferred that knowledge and other things they have learned into the GPS market and with some great success. One of the models that have been getting great reviews is the Whistler WGPX-650 GPS unit. Today I thought we would see how this model stacks up and what it can do. Read further to discover if they are going have success in the GPS market as well.

I was interested to see how well this model from Whistler would perform because they have a reputation of producing quality products so I was hoping this would be one of those. The first thing out of the box you notice is the nice design of the Whistler WGPX-650 GPS Unit. Once turned on it did get a fixed pretty quick on the satellites so that was something I really liked. Nothing is more frustrating than having to wait a long time to start getting the information. This model comes with an anti-glare 3.5-inch color screed with touch screen. The screen is bright and easy to read and a 266 MHz processor means it should be very fast so the information will be processed quickly. Many times when a company comes into the GPS market the first mistake they make is using a very slow processor. I was glad to see whistler did not do that.

Several great features are part of the Whistler WGPX-650 GPS unit that really makes it stand out. Turn-by-turn directions are something that many people really like and I can say I am one of those. It works well on this model and it seems that it was very accurate as well. Your also give access to millions points of interest including restaurants, hotels, and ATM’s. The list is very vast and you should have no probably finding a place to eat or fill up with the lists that they have provided. A few of the advanced features that really stand out for me were the Navteq mapping speed alert lets you know when you’re going past the speed limit. When people travel a lot of times they just do not pay attention to how fast they are going. They want to get to their destination and that is when a speeding ticket happens and can ruin any trip. Luckily, this will help you control that so it does not happen. Speeding is something we try not to do, but it happens to all of us. This feature will help curb that so you can enjoy your trip even more.

The Whistler WGPX-650 GPS unit has many great things going for it, but I really wanted to see how it would work in the field. I took it on a few trips and I was very surprised how well it did work. It never steered me in the wrong direction and the turn-by turn worked excellent which is something I really liked on this model. The screen was bright and I could see everything and the anti-glare screen was another big plus for me. The touch screen on this model is easy to use and it is user friendly. Nothing becomes more frustrating than when it takes a long time to input information. This one is easy to operate and you should have no issues at all with this model.

Overall, I will freely admit this is a very good value for the money. When I first saw this unit I was a little skeptical, but it did produce some great results in the time I used it. The Whistler WGPX-650 GPS unit is a very affordable and a solid performer. If you’re looking to get into a GPS unit and you want a product that will give, you trouble-free operation and easy to use than this is the model for you. Whistler may not be a household name when it comes to GPS units, but it will only be a matter of time before that happens. This model has so many great features and at a good price you definitely cannot go wrong with the Whistler WGPX-650 GPS. Grab yours today and take it on your next trip so you can see what I am talking about. This solid performer will get you from Point A to Point B without any problems at all. In fact, you will be thankful for the time it will save you traveling.

Do you realize that you can get greater GPS accuracy by doing a few simple tips? Most people think all you have to do is turn it on and your done. Well in a sense that is true, but to get the best and most accurate readings there are a few tips that will help you accomplish that. We have compiled some tips to help you get the most from your GPS receiver. Read further, discover, and implement these tips for better coverage and accuracy.

Turning on your GPS receiver is something that many people really do not pay much attention too. Many times this is why you do not always get the kind of reading that you are looking for when you start off. First always start it outdoors and in the widest space possible. Try to stay away from buildings an any large geographic formations and trees. This will give you a much more accurate reading. Being patient when you first turn on your receiver is also something that you will need to learn. We all like to just turn it on and go, but giving it some time to lock on the satellites will give you much better readings than if you just turned it on and went. Wait for at least three satellites to be utilized. The more that you can get a fixed on though will give you much greater accuracy which is what we really want anyway.

Look over the PDOP measurement on your GPS unit. The PDOP measurement will provide you with a general measuring stick for accuracy. It will measure the geometrical strength of your GPS satellite configuration. Set the minimum speed on your unit. The minimum speed is an application on your GPS that tells you what you’re doing hiking, driving, walking. The main reason for this is it will give you a much more accurate reading if it knows what the intended method of travel happens to be. Using waypoints to get a more accurate reading. This is another option that you have, but if you do use this method, there are some things you should know. First of all come to a complete stop when making a waypoint. Secondly do not move at least for 20 seconds or more prior to setting the waypoint. This time is needed for the GPS system to realize that you have come to a complete stop and you are not move this will give you a good accurate reading as well.

Disable the static navigation is you are a Sirfstar III user. The reasons for this are if you do not disable it, your readings at pedestrian speeds could be adversely affected and give you a reading that is not as accurate as you would have hoped for. Most people who use these tips above find greater results than if they do not use them at all. Instead of just doing it your own way why not give these a try and see how much easier it could actually be on you.

A quick overview of getting accurate GPS readings is the follow. Make sure that you are outdoors and in a wide open area before turning your unit on. This will eliminate bounce and give you a better reading than any other way. Secondly, give your receiver time to get a fix on the satellites. Do not rush it as the longer you let it get a good fix the better and more accurate reading you will receive. Three satellites is a good starting point, but the more the merrier as you will get more detail readings that way. If you need to make waypoints make sure you come to a complete stop for at least 20 seconds before you even try to set into your GPS unit.

There are many different things that affect the accuracy and readings of a GPS unit. Most people just do not realize that and tend to blame the unit or something else on the problem. If you follow, the tips we gave you above you will get more accurate readings and it usually will take you a lot less time than any other way you do it. Accuracy is very important in things you do in life and if you are traveling, you want fast accurate records quickly. The factors that can effect this of course many you cannot control, but after a few using these tips a few times you will be better prepared and more knowledgeable in how to get more accurate readings all the time.

How many times have you wished that you could be a fly on the wall in the life of your family members? There are probably times in every parent’s life when he or she wishes to know where the kids are taking the car – or even walking on foot. Well, if you are one of those parents then you’re in luck! Because there are tons of companies that offer some version of a GPS tracking device for people like you. And the good part is that these devices were not created with malice in mind, but instead were meant to help you keep your family safe.

About the GPS Tracking Device

You might be wondering how one of these devices can help you keep tabs on your kids. Well, put simply, the system is able to communicate directly with satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites communicate back to the system its exact geographic coordinates and exact time. With this information, and a little bit of computer technology thrown into the pot, you now have the luxury of watching where any person is traveling who holds one of these devices by looking at a map on your computer miles away – and of course, this includes your kids. This means, you can watch them to make sure they don’t go to that friends house you forbade them from visiting, or make sure they don’t drive 80 miles per hour in your new car.

It sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, doesn’t it? Well, it’s actually a true piece of our reality. Even better, it’s an affordable piece of our reality. In fact, some of the units that have been created to track kids and teens run for as little as $100 – not bad! So now I bet you’re wondering how you can get your hands on one of these need little units. Don’t worry; in this article, we will look at some devices that are available online and in stores so that you can begin the process of making your family safer.

Finding the GPS Tracking Device for You

With tons of devices available for you to choose from, how will you be able to select the one that will suit your specific needs? The best way to get started is to read the short list below of units on the market. They will give you an idea of the features you can take advantage of so that you can effectively narrow down your options. Let’s get started!

GPSNanny Products

This company was created with your kids and teens in mind. There is at least one GPS tracking device available for both age groups to help you keep tabs on them, and help them feel safer that someone can find them if they are in trouble. The two units we will briefly look at in this article are the WalkAbout and Teen Tracker.

The WalkAbout is a small device – about the size of a closed flip phone – that can fit in your kids’ pockets, bookbags or purses. Its main purpose is to help you watch where your kids are traveling when they are not in your presence. Some of the features you can take advantage of with this system include being able to watch your kids move on a virtual map that you can view from your home on the computer or mobile tracker in real time. By looking at the map, you learn where your kids are located, and can even create a geo-fence that gives your kids boundaries as to where they can travel. You will automatically be alerted via your mobile phone if they venture outside this area; this way you can always know they’re safe. But probably the best feature on this device is the emergency button that let’s your child alert you if he or she senses impending danger.

The Teen Tracker, on the other hand, is a GPS tracking device that goes into the vehicle your teen drives. By plugging it into your cigarette lighter, you can watch where and how fast your teen is driving. The system also comes with a remote door unlock feature, auto security interface, and emergency button.

Your search for the perfect GPS tracking device doesn’t have to end here – this short list actually only tips the iceberg on what’s available. Besides, you want to make sure that what you find satisfies the desire you have for keeping your kids safe. So do a little bit more searching, look for great prices, and make your selection in care. That way, the GPS tracking device you bring home can be the one that turns you into that fly on the wall you’ve always hoped to be.

Traveling can be extremely exciting – especially when you get the chance to leave your car and venture outdoors with nature. We are very lucky that society has worked with us to provide great options when we get outside, like hiking trails, caverns, fishing areas, and more. But if you like to go to what could be considered uncharted territory, you might find that the areas marked off for your safety no longer exist. So how can you get outdoors and still enjoy everything the same way you would if you had a marked trail that could guarantee you wouldn’t get lost? The answer is simple. By purchasing a portable GPS with route list, you can find your way through remote areas and also have the guarantee that you will find your way back home.

About Global Positioning Systems

If you’re unfamiliar with global positional systems (GPS) let’s run through a quick crash course. A global positioning system is a device that can either be handheld, portable or built in to your vehicle. All of these systems work the same way in that they communicate with up to 12 satellites orbiting around planet Earth. In communicating with these satellites, they are able to receive the exact time as well as latitude and longitude position coordinates.

How does process help you out? Well, there are actually a number of ways that you can benefit from one of these devices, and their benefits are derived from your needs. The main three types of devices that you can find on the market include the mapping, navigation and tracking units. Each one has its one exclusive function, however you will find that many companies are combining two or all of the features into one unique unit. The good news is that you can find a portable GPS with route list that offers all of these capabilities. So the next step would be to take a look at some of the devices on the market to determine which one might work best for your personal needs.

Garmin Nuvi 750 Navigation System

Garmin Nuvi is a hot name in the world of GPS. You can pretty much rest assured that anything you purchase with those two words in the front are going to give you the navigation experience you want. Let’s find out why!

Some of the initial features you can explore with this portable GPS with route list include a colorful widescreen display, tons of preloaded street maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, advanced navigation features, and an FM transmitter. What else? It comes with a POI (Points of Interest) database that gives you access to millions of public locations around the country and beyond so that if you want to map directions from your home to a restaurant but you don’t know the address you can simply find the restaurant’s name in the database and the Garmin Nuvi will map directions for you. Another great feature of this device automatic route recalculation that helps you get to a desired location even if a traffic tie-up is blocking your original trip.

But of course, the fact that this is a portable GPS with route list is what’s drawing you to this article, so let’s look briefly at the memory function. On this particular device, you can save up to 10 different paths so that you can easily find your way back to a location you’ve already been. But even better; if you travel some of these paths back to back on a regular basis, you can automatically sort multiple destinations in order so that you can find the most efficient way to get to your final desired location.

Navigon 7100 4.3-Inch Widescreen Navigator

Another great portable GPS with route list, this device offers more than just the ability to store multiple destinations. You can enjoy extremely precise turn-by-turn voice directions with spoken road names using text-to-speech technology. There is also a lane assistant that can recommend the best land for you to get in so that you will more easily negotiate the next turn or exit. The maps show up in photo-realistic 3D images with actual sign text and exit ramp guidance. And if you need real-time traffic information, you will get it from the integrated traffic receiver.

Finding a portable GPS with route list is not the hard part. It’s really finding one that can suit your specific needs. So take some time to really research what you want in a unit. Then compare prices and go buy your own portable GPS with route list. You’ll be happy you did.