Using GPS Navigation

What is a Global Positioning Satellite system?

GPS is the trade name of NAVSTAR. A system developed by the US Navy which prior to 1983 was strictly limited to defence only applications. It was the shooting down of a Korean airliner in that year that lead the United States government, through Ronald Reagan, to allow civilian use of the system.

NAVSTAR operates 24 satellites in an accurately formed constellation around the earth, that transmit precise microwaves that are picked up by receivers.

In the early days of satellite navigation, receivers were well out of reach of the man in the street, costing thousands of pounds. Now a non map version can be bought for as little as £70.

Because of the location in orbit of the satellites, a handheld receiver can guarantee "seeing" between 7 and 12 satellites at any point on the planet (overhead conditions permitting e.g. tree cover, buildings, mountains etc.)
Effectively turning it in to a handheld electronic compass, with the advantage of being unafected by any outdoor influences ... eg magnetism, damp air etc.

By using the microwave signals the receiver can translate the data in to recognisable user information including :- Location, Travel Speed, Time, Mapping References e.g. North South and Altitude etc.
When coupled with mapping software within the unit, the GPS is turned in to a very powerful navigation system that can be used on land, at sea and in the air.

Battery powered handheld receivers, about the size and weight of a mobile phone, are now commonplace giving the user accurate and reliable information when out walking. They can be used in their simplest form to give grid references that can then be used with traditional paper maps allowing a new level of confidence in the field.

For most people this information is enough. However for £30 to £50 more, the technology can give you a truly three dimensional view of your surrounding area.

'Garmin' are currently the market leaders in this technology with both their “eTrex” and “GPSMAP” range of receivers. Extra software can be bought for most of their models, giving users full detailed maps of the areas. They also have built in spare memory allowing the user to input points of interest and “Rice Trails” to aid the journey home.

If you are planning an adventurous walk in unchartered territory or just want to feel more confident when out and about, one of these handheld devices might be just for you.

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