What is a 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 1980's, the 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 the GPS signal or GPS receivers.

How it works.

GPS satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user's exact location. Essentially, the GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away the satellite is. Now, with distance measurements from a few more satellites, the receiver can determine the user's position and display it on the unit's electronic map. A GPS receiver must be locked on to the signal of at least three satellites to calculate a 2D position (latitude and longitude) and track movement. With four or more satellites in view, the receiver can determine the user's 3D position (latitude, longitude and altitude). Once the user's position has been determined , the GPS unit can calculate other information, such as speed, bearing, track, trip distance, distance to destination, sunrise and sunset time and much more.

How accurate is GPS ?

Todays GPS receivers are extremely accurate, thanks to their parallel multi-channel design. Garmin's 12 parallel channel receivers are quick to lock onto satellites when first turned on and they maintain strong locks, even in dense foliage or urban settings with tall buildings. Certain atmospheric factors and other sources of error can effect the accuracy of GPS receivers. Garmin GPS receivers are accurate to within 15 meters on average.

Most models have a c,s or x at the end - what does this mean ?

The "c" stands for colour screen, the "s" stands for the two extra sensors built in (electronic compass and barometric altimeter) and "x" means that the unit has expandable memory capability (takes a micro SD memorycard).

How would a GPS benefit me ?

From a mobile point of view, GPS has proven itself to be an invaluable tool, it saves both time and money. The GPS will calculate the shortest or fastest route to your destination. No more asking for directions. No more map books..simply type the info in and go..!!! When traveling to another country, mapping for that area can be purchased separately and loaded to your unit.
GPS improves safety, because it allows you to concentrate 100% on the road and takes the guesswork out of trying to figure out which road you are coming up to..the GPS will show you on the screen. The GPS will also calculate your travel time and give you an expected time of arrival at your destination. GPS takes the stress out of long trips especially when you are traveling in unfamiliar areas. It will tell you where fuel stations are etc etc. The latest units even have bluetooth which allows you to make calls through the unit, doubling up as a hands free kit.

There are many different GPS units available to suit every application. Whether you're a hunter that needs to track game, a farmer that needs to measure land, a hiker who needs to measure his ascent, a cyclist who wants to measure his heart rate, speed, ascent, calories etc, a housewife that needs to find her way around town, a rep that has a tight appointment schedule or a fisherman that wants to mark his favourite fishing spot ..Bandit GPS has a unit for you.