Today’s units take advantage of that technology. However, it’s important
to note that, at times, satellite reception may not be picked up instantly or
constantly by the GPS unit. Some new units have location approximation for
times when reception is lost, such as in tunnels.
Choosing the right one
With so many brands and models to choose from, going to the store to
purchase a GPS can be quite daunting. Don’t fret. All you need to figure out is
what you really need. Here are some suggestions.
Determine your budget. If you have a set amount of money to spend on a
GPS unit, look for systems around that price range. Today’s entry-level units
process information and update maps faster than the high-end models from
earlier this decade, so you can find good quality at value prices.
Choose a unit with the most up-to-date maps. Consider units that can be
upgraded (sometimes requires a fee). GPS units are miniature computers—
adding new software and additional maps can increase your device’s power.
Find the right size. You can choose a standard unit ( 3.5- to 4.2-inch screen)
or go for a larger screen, such as 5 inches.
Other features to consider are:
• Bluetooth capabilities for hands-free calling
• Text-to-speech to hear street names, etc.
• Sound quality and volume
The safety element
Whether you decide to buy a fully loaded high-end GPS model or your
average “get me from point A to point B” unit, you will always know where
you are, where you came from and how much longer it’ll take to get to where
you want to go. Sure, it’s convenient to be able to type in your friend’s new
address and drive there without having to print out directions from your
computer. However, if you’re in the middle of nowhere late at night, the
information provided by your GPS could literally save your life. A
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HOW GPS WORKS
Twenty-four Global Positioning System (GPS)
satellites orbit the Earth. Each satellite continuously sends a signal that contains its position
in space and the precise time the signal was
sent. A GPS receiver calculates the difference
between the time the signal was sent and the
time it was received. Because the speed of the
signal is constant, this tells your receiver how
far away it is from the satellite. At least three
satellite signals are combined to triangulate
the receiver’s exact position on Earth. A GPS is
accurate to within 3 meters. It can receive up
to 12 GPS satellite signals, plus two additional
signals from the U.S. Wide Area Augmentation
System (WAAS) and the European Geostationary
Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS). These
systems provide GPS correction data from a
series of ground stations with known coordinates. The more signals received, the more
accurate your positioning. A GPS offers maximum accuracy by taking advantage of the
most signals possible.
