Imagine yourself in the middle of a camping date, and wanting to go off of the trail to look for food or fuel. If you’re taking your cue from a map generated online, then you may have to meticulously need those specific directions at all times. Good old maps may not be any better, as they contain tips about the restaurants, hotels or gas stations in the area. But the case is way different with regards to GPS systems. Imagine having a portable tour guide in your car! If you want to get to that nearby restaurant or hotel as soon as possible, just pick the category you want from your GPS screen, and out pops a bunch of restaurants or hotels that can have you on a good run all over town. Upon finishing your choice, the GPS system will make the needed adjustments in your directions.

Are you in need of a GPS device? If so, then go over what kind of tasks you think you would use your GPS most of the time. Sure, you might enthusiastically say you plan to use it anywhere. But before you impulsively go see all the GPS systems on sale, go over these first: Recreational GPS: Recreational GPS were meant for the great outdoors, and some of these handy gizoms were built to absorb the occasional spill or accidental dunking into water. Handheld GPS units come in a variety of mobile designs, feeling at home right on your wrist, pocket, backpack, or dashboard. Automotive GPS: Car GPS devices specially built for navigation on the road will include built-in maps or allow you to download mapping data. Some devices are able to give voice directions, enabling you to keep your eyes on the road. Seemingly standard too, are touch screens and mounting options, in case your state prohibits the hanging of devices on windshields for safety’s sake. Marine GPS: Marine GPS devices are designed for use at sea, with a waterproof design. Usually used to predict tides or remembering good fishing spots, these come pre-loaded with onshore and offshore maps, chart-plotting functions, and a screen that can be relied upon even under direct sunlight. Cell Phone GPS: And how can we forget the latest in the wave of GPS devices, GPS-enabled cell phones? Some of these phones have turn-by-turn navigation features, and can be irresistible at times because of the smart design.

Looking for your next car GPS? Don’t know what to expect? Here are some of the main features and functions available on portable vehicle GPS navigators. Compared to the more high-end and high-priced versions already installed in some vehicles, a portable GPS device can be used in multiple vehicles. The power issue is really no issue; it can be supplied either by an internal battery or the 12 volt outlet in a vehicle’s interior. How about the address book? These, and the names of locations are entered on a touch screen which shows 3D maps that get refreshed in real-time as the vehicle progresses towards the designated target address. It’s all up to the brand or model, but maps for the United States, Canada and Europe can be acquired. Satellites keep track of where the vehicle is at all times. And have you heard about the spoken turn by turn directions-aid in navigation? Not a few GPS systems carry this function. Settings can be modified in such a way that the spoken directions can be set in such a way to include street or road names. Aside from being able to choose between a male or female voice, some brands even go as far as include the perk of what celebrity the GPS’ voice sounds like! A few brands or models are also capable of translation into different languages. Imagine the GPS selecting a route, and then the driver messes things up by missing the turn. Not to worry; the GPS will actually return directions to get the car-GPS user back on track. In urban areas, some GPS receivers will even give alternative routes in the event there is traffic build-up ahead. Other GPS systems display the best routes that steer clear of toll booths. Some mobile GPS devices that are Bluetooth compatible permit hands-free functioning, but only if the driver uses a Bluetooth enabled cell phone. Drivers can then simply ‘talk’ out loud to the GPS in order for it to spot a point of interest such as a convenience store, and call to reserve a spot. In the end, nothing can replace a driver’s experience or common sense, and not even a portable GPS receiver which is an excellent replacement to the paper map. For example, nobody blinks at a -GPS’ accuracy, but you are in for a rare surprise when you use GPS on hilly terrain, when turn directions may become buggy. Now, if the case is that you are not the type who drives frequently to new destinations, then skip getting yourself a portable GPS. But if you like the security and convenience of getting to where you want to go, but without the unpleasant wasted time, then you can count on a portable car GPS device to be the automotive accessory you can’t leave home without.

Okay, so you got your GPS system already. But you want to check what accessories can go with your newest purchase. Take a look at the list of add-ons below. GPS software: With these, you acquire detailed maps and points of interest for your GPS device. GPS holders: Your GPS device, be it a mobile unit or a car GPS, is most secure when you stabilize it on your dashboard or laptop with GPS holders. GPS antennas: Believe it or not, GPS antennas really help. These lend strength to your GPS signal and make it more efficient. GPS chargers & cables Bluetooth: The technology, available through short-range wireless, keeps your Bluetooth GPS device in touch with your Bluetooth-enabled computer, PDA, or cell phone from up to 30 feet away. Memory cards. Adapters: A cigarette lighter adapter provides a convenient source of power on the road.

Mark Green tries to divide time between two hobbies: gadget reviews and communication studies. Handheld GPS are a wave of technology that is definitely here to stay, and which keep getting more and more sophisticated and more widespread. Get to know more about your favorite GPS systems.

– Mark Green