What is GPS?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense. GPS was originally intended for military applications, but in the 1980s, the US government made the system available for civilian use. GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. There are no subscription fees or setup charges to use GPS.

More on how GPS works

GPS Solutions
Which GPS Solution do you need? There are many different types of GPS devices on the market.

Here's our guide to help you choose which type of device best suits your needs.

Handheld GPS    For Low cost, robust, easy to use, some models waterproof, wide range to choose from. Large colour displays now available.  Against No map display - although some advanced models do have a very limited 'vector' base map. Can only be used as a GPS device.  Memory-Map   Recommend Walking / Hiking - Garmin eTrex Cycling - Garmin Edge series Fitness - Garmin Forerunner series More information on Garmin GPS We also offer a range of specialist cables to connect a Garmin GPS to a PPC / Laptop or Pocket PC. More information on cables and to Buy Online. PC, Notebook or Laptop  For With GPS data supplied and navigation software installed, a PC is the most powerful option but has obvious limitations. Best suited to planning, printing and programming detailed routes into a handheld GPS.  Against As a moving map display with real time GPS positioning it's really only suitable on a larger vehicle like a boat or plane.  Memory-Map   Recommend Any PC that meets the Memory-Map System Requirements. A GPS signal can be fed via a cable from a handheld GPS or a specialist USB or Bluetooth GPS unit. More Information on specialist GPSs and to Buy Online Pocket PC / Smartphone Pocket PC With integrated GPS / Smartphone  For Very portable, light-weight pocket sized unit with full colour screen that can be seen even in bright sunlight. See your position, track and planned route in full colour, on a real map, in the palm of your hand. Flexible, almost the same power as a PC - can be used for many other tasks such as contacts, calendar and even Word, Excel, internet and email. Multifunctional – Other software applications can be installed and used at the same time. Some come with an integrated GPS Lowest cost of the 'PC' devices.  Against Not very robust*, but can be improved with a rugged waterproof case or waterproof bags. (See accessories) Battery life not as long as a Handheld GPS but as units can be quickly turned on and off so this is not normally a problem. *Rugged waterproof models are available. For more information email us.  Memory-Map   Recommend Any Pocket PC that meets the Memory-Map System Requirements – including: Mio 360 Mio A701 HP iPaq series (except 19xx) Dell Axim XDA / SPV More Information PND  For Waterproof – ideal for outdoor use Voice directed, turn by turn road navigation Speed camera and blackspot alerts Very portable, light-weight pocket sized unit with full colour screen that can be seen even in bright sunlight. See your position, track and planned route in full colour, on a real map, in the palm of your hand. Includes an integrated GPS  Against Battery life not as long as some handheld GPS but units can be quickly turned on and off and screensavers can be used, so this is not normally a problem. More expensive than a Handheld GPS - but a lot more flexible.  Memory-Map   Recommend Road Angel Adventurer 7000 More information & Buy Online Automotive  For Voice directed, turn by turn road navigation  Against Most of these units are built for one task only and cannot display a position off the road, support any off road mapping or communicate with Memory-Map in any way.  Memory-Map   Recommend We do not recommend this type of GPS. If you are interested in the road navigation feature we recommend that you look at the PND or Pocket PC option for about the same price.

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