How To: Choose a Handheld GPS System

The first step in choosing a Handheld GPS product is to determine what the GPS product is used for. All GPS units fall into 3 classes: Non-Mapping, Mapping and Auto-Routing.

1. What is a Non-Mapping GPS unit

Non-Mapping GPS units are considered as basic GPS that only computes basic GPS information. Technically there are two types of basic units, those with a display and those without. GPS devices with no display require an attachment to a second unit such as a PDA or laptop to display the information. This section is devoted to GPS devices that do have their own display and are therefore, true standalone units. This does not mean, however, that they cannot be attached to a PDA or laptop for enhanced functionality. Originally all GPS were what we now call basic units. A basic GPS is most suited to a person who:

• Does not want to spend a lot of money.
• Have Paper maps to use with the GPS.
• Just wants general guidance information such as the way back to camp or to home.
• Wants to record a trip so that they can get back home or visit the same place in the future.
• Is willing to do trip planning on a PC and then download the route to the GPS.
• Wants a GPS for Geocaching.
• Wants a really small and light unit for emergency use.
• Wants a unit to hook to a PC or PDA but likes the ability to use it separately if needed.

2. What is a Mapping GPS Unit

When mapping units first appeared, some users said that finally the GPS has become useful. These units can show maps on the screen. Having maps directly on the unit means that your position could be shown directly on a map and you could relate this map image to your surroundings. Generally a mapping GPS unit only includes rudimentary road level maps. Detailed street level or topo maps are considered accessories and cost extras. There are a few exceptions where the detailed maps are bundled in or preloaded. A Mapping GPS is suitable for people who:

• Wants or needs maps on the unit.
• Are willing to pay for maps to add to the unit. Note that road maps get out of date fairly quickly so they will need to be upgraded from time to time.
• Still requires all of the features of a basic GPS.
• Are willing to plan their trips manually on the unit on a PC but want to see the route and their position on a map while being guided to a destination.

3. What is an Auto-routing GPS unit

The most advanced GPS units will provide door-to-door automatic route generation and navigation guidance. For some people this is the only reason to buy a GPS product. However, many of the auto-routing units are missing basic GPS features and are focused only on auto-routing road solutions. These units provide good functionalities for those people who are not really interested in GPS but want automatic guidance. The handheld auto-routing units usually do not provide voice prompts but beep when a message is on the screen. The user would then read the message from the screen. Some have different beeps for different things so the user may not actually have to look at the screen. Some handheld auto-routing units try to fulfill the functions of a mapping receiver and an auto-routing receiver. Vehicle oriented units will have voice prompts as well. A PDA can bridge the gap between a vehicle unit with voice prompts and a handheld for field use. However, they are not particularly rugged in the field since they are not waterproof and the screen is breakable. An Autorouting GPS is suitable for people who:

• Get lost easily when driving.
• Want to pay a little more for the advanced functionalities.
• Are interested in GPS guidance with door to door routing.
• Want the GPS to find restaurants, filling stations, and other businesses using a preloaded database.
• Want a Color display and are not so worried about battery life.
• Are willing to buy upgrade maps every year or two.