GPS Units: Ultra Cool Features to Look for

Firstly introduced for military purposes, then developed further and made available for everyone to use, the GPS system has certainly changed the way we receive and send information about our whereabouts. GPS stands for Global Positioning System which is a 24-satellite navigation system using multiple satellite signals to find a receiver’s position anywhere on earth. It can pinpoint the position in three dimensions – latitude, longitude and altitude. The best thing about the GPS system is that its information is free of charge and available to everyone and everywhere. What you need to invest, though, is in a quality GPS unit that can grant you that information. With today’s advanced technology, gps units are made with features that add more to the experience and more importantly, can save your life in life-threating situations. Here is a list of the extra features you should be looking for.

GPS Units

To begin with, in order to feel safe and never be out of reach even if you are off the grid, an Iridium satellite network can provide you with the possibility to exchange text messages with any mobile phone number or email address from anywhere (while you use the GPS) for the purpose of sharing your journey’s progress. In addition, if your life is at risk, you can send an SOS to the monitoring centre and receive information about the help sent towards you. What is more, you don’t even need to have a phone service, because the 100% global Iridium satellite coverage in your GPS unit can work everywhere so you will be never out of reach.

Next valuable feature you should be looking for in gps units is a tracking function which will make your family and friends aware of your progress and can follow your endeavours on their computers or mobile phones. Furthermore, you can use an app that will embed your GPS location on a page, website or social media where all of your movements and messages will be tracked during your trip. You can even pair it with your mobile device for a greater convenience and access to an unlimited number of maps and aerial imagery.

GPS Units

Another useful feature is the option to view and organise maps, waypoints, routes and tracks and basically, plan your whole trip beforehand. In order to have a better and enhanced visualization of the maps, there are gps units that display topographic map data in 2D or 3D on your computer screen, together with contour lines and elevation profiles. Another plus is the ability to transfer an unlimited amount of satellite images to your device.

Furthermore, you should look for a weather forecast feature that can provide you with detailed updates about the weather conditions during the trip. Knowing the weather forecast is of essential importance so that you aren’t caught by surprise if a storm breaks. Along with this feature, there’s an enhanced water resistant sunlight-readable display which can withstand the elements, dust, dirt and humidity and can retain its toughness.

GPS Units

Finally, opt for a GPS unit that you can use anywhere; on ATVs, bicycles, in boats, cars and hot air balloons and even in rugged backcountry areas. A 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass that can show your way when you are on the move or not holding it level can make this possible.