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Functions and Advantages of GPS Receivers

Many people choose to use cell phones in the place of GPS receivers. However, using actual GPS receivers does have several advantages. GPS receivers are more durable, have a better battery life, do not rely on cell towers, typically have more features, and mapping is always available.

GPS receivers use the satellites of the US Global Positioning System. The satellites continually send information to the earth, and the receiver takes information from four or more satellites to determine its position. Anyone who is going to spend time outside can benefit from a GPS receiver.

Hiking, climbing and biking trails can easily be mapped out on a GPS receiver. Simple enter the waypoints and download the direction offline. If you are a skier, snowshoer or snowboarder, you can check the receiver to discover any danger zones in your area. Some receivers have features for geocaching to make finding the caches easier. You can even download information directly to the GPS receiver. As well as showing routes and maps, GPS receivers may store additional information to create a fitness profile or a running log. You can even upload your routes online and share them with friends. GPS receivers can be mounted on bikes to provide cyclists with digital maps, and they can provide step-by-step instructions to motorists.

There are four basic functions of GPS receivers. The first function is obvious. They display their position and show you your location on a map. The second function is a track-log. This feature records previous positions and is particularly useful for people who hike or run and want to recall their route. Point-to-point navigation is possible when the receiver is given a destination coordinate. Finally, you can use a series of waypoints to implement route navigation.

GPS receivers are useful, but they are not meant to replace a map or compass. They still run on batteries, so keep physical aids around just to be safe. While they have better range than cell phones, satellites can be obstructed by vegetation and other interferences. GPS receivers typically have a 10 to 30 foot accuracy radius, but errors do occur on occasion. WAAS-enabled (Wide Area Augmentation System) GPS systems correct errors and have readings that are more accurate.

There are different features available for GPS receivers. The interface, for example, can be different. Some have touch screens that you may customize and others use push buttons. You can also look at the display screens. Most are in color, but you can find the less expensive black and white models. Each GPS model will have its own memory. Of course, more memory means storing more information in the GPS and microSD card.

A geocaching feature saves you the trouble of printing information and provides information about the terrain of your destination. Barometric altimeters are also helpful features for GPS receivers. These assess elevation when the satellite information is not being received. A barometer typically comes with the barometric altimeter helps predict the weather and air pressure. An electric compass is a feature that shows you the direction—something that a normal GPS receiver cannot do. You must calibrate this and the altimeter, and both will drain your battery faster.

GPS receivers that come with quadrifilar helix antennae will get the same reception regardless of their position. You use them in any location and get accurate results. Another feature that improves accuracy is a high-sensitivity chipset. These connect to weaker satellites to find a position, which make it easier to calculate in brush or canyons.

Digital cameras on GPS receivers will take pictures and geotag your location. This allows you to see the location of the picture on a map. Wireless transfer data is a feature that allows you to communicate information with other receivers that are in a 10-foot range. This requires ANT-enabled GPS devices and can be useful to share waypoints or geocache information.

The mapping software is unique for each system. Not all systems can support mapping software. You can choose to buy maps or have a system that supports UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) or latitude/longitude.

You can choose GPS receivers that operate as two-way radios in a 2 to 14 mile range. The Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) are your best radio options. There are also systems available with satellite messaging/tracker units. These work with cell phones and can send emergency messages to family, friends, or rescue workers.

If you have additional features on a GPS receiver, disable them when they are not needed because they can drain your battery. GPS receivers have nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries or Lithium disposable batteries. NiMH batteries are rechargeable, but lithium batteries last longer, particularly when it is cold.