From its humble beginnings in 1989, the Garmin company ranks high as one of the leaders in global positioning system (GPS) technology. Garmin manufactures GPS units for a variety of applications, including auto and marine navigation, outdoor recreation, and avionics. Some GPS tricks are specific to the use and scenario for which the device is used. However, some general principles apply across the board. A GPS unit is not a substitute for a map and compass. The GPS unit provides real-time location data and direction while the user is in motion. A map puts the location in context.
GPS Signal
Avoid common sources of GPS signal interference when possible. Accuracy of navigation depends upon the GPS unit's ability to obtain satellite signals. In order to get a position, GPS unit must obtain signals from at least three satellites to triangulate. Large buildings, heavy forest cover and topography hamper the device's reception. Signal interfere can affect all Garmin GPS units.
Planning
Plan your route prior to travel. Garmin GPS units include the proprietary MapSource software, which provides detailed road and feature data. These maps can be viewed on a computer. Select routes, waypoints and areas of interest. Waypoints are manually-selected points. Add a short description for each point. After planning, upload the route to the GPS unit.
Upload detailed map data. The GPS unit holds baseline data for major roads and features in its internal memory. More detailed data is available for uploading into the GPS unit, using the MapSource software. Before uploading map information, clear any unnecessary detailed files. Select map units to upload into the unit. Map units are typically counties. MapSource data is most suitable for auto navigation.
Survey the terrain prior to hiking trips. In addition to the MapSource software, topographical data is available with Garmin's BaseCamp software. Map data is comparable to that of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Reviewing the topography allows you to plan a hiking route best suited for the ability of all the hikers. Pre-planning helps avoid obstacles prior to discovering them on the trail.
Geocaching
Install the Garmin communicator plug-in. The Garmin communicator plug-in is a free Internet browser plug-in for downloading GPS information available on various websites. Geocaching.com is the definitive source for geocaching information. Geocaching uses GPS technology to locate hidden caches. Cache information including GPS data is available from the website. Geocaching.com uses GPX files to deliver cache data. GPX or GPS Exchange Format is a light-weight XML data format. Geocaching and GPX data is available for the Garmin Colorado or Oregon units.
Tags: data available, MapSource software, communicator plug-in, detailed data, Garmin communicator
