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 works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day.

Points of Interest (POI)

These are suggested locations on the map such as restaurants, movie theaters, banks, etc. Look for GPS devices that allow you to connect to a computer to download points of interest for the area in which you'll be using your device.

Waypoints

Waypoints are specific locations marked by latitude and longitude. Think of them as very accurately defined landmarks. The higher the number of waypoints your GPS device can store, the more accurate it will be. Many GPS devices allow you to connect to a computer to upload and download waypoints. There are several free databases on the internet that allow travelers to share waypoints they've collected.

WAAS

A GPS device that supports WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) generates a more accurate location reading (within 3 meters 95% of the time) than a GPS device that does not support WAAS. It is often used to assist aircraft with precision-instrument runway approaches in bad weather.

Voice Guidance

Many GPS systems have voice-assisted guidance which allows you navigate without having to look back at the unit's video display.

Popular Brands include Garmin, Magellan, TomTom, Pharos, Lowrance, and Sony.