GPS & tips when using one - Part 2 of 2

Whats The Difference Between A Typical Gps Unit Or Using The Gps Navigation On A Smartphone?…

Let’s Talk Cost First….

• A Typical GPS unit for your car and/or boat will range from $120 - $250 and remember, most GPS’s require you to pay extra for annual software/map updates ranging in cost for this an annual free of $70-$90/per year/upgrade.
  


• Smartphones typically cost $149-$299 with a two year contract, plus an average of $30 per month for a data plan, and turn by turn navigation apps rane in [rice from free to $99, byt smartphone navigation aoos don’t carry annual map update fees…

What About The Types Of Maps On A GPS Vs. A Navigation App On A Smartphone

• As we mentnioned with a typical GPS you have to be sure you periodically update the mapping software, so that you have the most current maps..


• Smartphone map and points of interest databases “apps” are either downloaded initially with the purchase of the app (like with TomTom for the iPhone or you can download them on the fly a they say, per MotionX GPS drive or antoher app…
  


• When you downloard maps on the fly, you will always have the latest version. But you might be without a map if you are ni a remove area and out of cell phone tower range, such as when youa re cmaping or hiking…

What is a GPS & tips when using one - Part 1 of 2

GPS - stands for Global Positioning System

If you aren't familiar with these great little devices, a GPS is a space age navigational system that can pinpoint where you are anywhere in the world very accurately within a few yards or meters for our Canadian students. They will work day or night using a constellation of 24 satellites in precise orbits approximately 11,000 miles above the earth and the satellites transmit data via high frequency radio waves back to Earth in all weather conditions on land, on water and even in the air.

Although you don’t need one they are great to have if you are boating, driving, camping, hiking, 4 wheeling and anywhere on the move…

Top Sellers are the Basic Garmin, TomTom and the Garmin Magellan

Although they are great, when you are using a GPS a few helpful things to remember:

• Once you input your route, review it to be sure it makes sense to you



• You may not want to use the smaller recommended roads where services might not be readily available especially in new areas that you aren’t familiar with



• Your GPS should be a helpful tool, but always take and review a new updated street, topographic or marine map



• Don’t let the GPS distract you – don’t program it while driving; don’t pay more attention to the GPS unit than the road and never neglect your line of sight while following the directions from the GPS unit



• Pay attention before making turns when the GPS tells you to turn or take an exit, remember the GPS has no idea if its safe to do so at that moment… Some drivers might panic when thеу gеt thе instructions and aren’t able to take the turn or exit..



• Remember if you miss a turn or exit, thе GPS will recalculate аnd gеt you back οn track.



• Mοѕt GPS devices offer multiple routes tο a destination, ѕο іf you don’t lіkе or agree with thе proposed route, then choose another way with the help of a map….



• Don’t check your common sense at the door (or the dock) just because you are using a GPS device…