Hand Held GPS
A handheld GPS (short for "global positioning system") is a small electronic device that is in constant communication with a series of satellites that pinpoint your location. Using this information, you can get specific and accurate directions to almost anywhere. A handheld GPS is not cheap, so it is important to find the unit that has the features you want in order to ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck.
Size
One important factor to consider when purchasing a handheld GPS is the size of the unit. A handheld GPS can be used while driving in a car or while walking, so there may be times where you have to carry it. Something that is small enough to fit in a pocket or fanny pack may be nice, but will result in a smaller screen. Something with a larger screen may be easier to see but may be harder to carry.
Waterproof
Whether or not your GPS is waterproof is another consideration to make. If you are caught in the rain with your GPS unit and it isn't waterproof, it could result in the unit being permanently damaged. However, a waterproof GPS is significantly more expensive than a non-waterproof unit. Consider whether or not you're willing to take the expensive risk of possibly getting it wet.
Channels
Another important consideration is how many channels your GPS uses to communicate with satellites. Older and less expensive models only use a few channels and are therefore less accurate and take longer to make calculations. However, if you're simply driving from landmark to landmark, this can be enough. Newer and more expensive models use at least 12 channels to communicate with satellites and are much more accurate.
Tags: communicate with, communicate with satellites, expensive models, more expensive, with satellites
