A GPS navigation unit doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive for geocaching fun. A basic device that allows you to easily enter waypoints is all that is necessary. It should be durable, simple to use and have easy accessibility. Here are 10 additional things to consider when looking for your portable GPS device:
*A Basemap: This is highly recommended. A basemap can substantially increase the equipment’s usefullness and the additional cost is marginal.The ability to get driving directions to the area near a cache can be incredibly useful, so give consideration to this feature when looking at a higher end device.
* Channels: Twelve parallel channels is typical in handheld GPS units. The channels are what help to acquire GPS satellite signals faster and more accurately.
* An external antenna jack: Although the chips in newer navigators are sensitive enough to acquire satellite signals inside a vehicle it is not always easy to obtain good coverage through a front windshield. The ability to use an external antenna can be invaluable in places where signals are weak like in heavy tree cover.
* An Interface jack: If you intend to use the receiver with a computer, be sure that it has a jack for using a USB interface cable so you can quickly load maps and waypoints onto your device.
* Memory: The ability to load and store detailed topographic maps, street-level maps, or additional waypoints into a handheld GPS navigator is affected by the unit’s internal storage capacity. Check to see if the device you are considering will accept a memory card for additional storage.
* The power source: The typical unit should give you at least 14 hours of operation from standard AA or AAA batteries. HIgher end units can get up to 36 hours before replacing batteries. The ability to support external power, like a cigarette lighter power cable can increase the time between battery replacements.
* Rocker keypad or touchscreen: Using a receiver without a rocker keypad is like using a computer without a mouse. Some newer GPS units have touchscreens which helps immensely when navigating using the maps.
* Screen size and appearance: Consider getting the largest screen size the you can realistically carry. The inexpensive units will have a grey background. Color is great and helps define map features and a backlight is important to read the map in low light. A sun-light readable feature can be helpful.
* Waterproof protection: It is inevitable that at some point your navigation device will get submerged. Make sure it is at least water-resistant. An IPX7 designation is preferred. An IPX7 designation means the GPS case can withstand accidental immersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
* Geocaching Features: Check for functions the manufacturer has specifically created for geocaching like the ability to store field notes that help to log your caches after a hunt or to store information about caches in your area.
These tips on features to look for when you are ready to get a handheld GPS navigator will make your selection easier.
