Bones in Motion

GPS devices are becoming extremely popular for a variety of every day uses, and rightfully so. These receivers provide directions for drivers and hikers, speed and pace measurements for bikers and runners, location information for parents and friends, and that is not all. If you are thinking about picking up a GPS device to make life a little easier or beef up your exercise routine, but don't know quite what you're looking for, here are a few GPS device characteristics to consider.
The very first step to figuring out the right GPS receiver is deciding whether it will be used outside or just inside a vehicle. Considering the portability of the device is important depending on what it will be used for. There are of course GPS receivers built in to stereo decks for permanent vehicle installation. However there are also a number of devices that are portable and powerful enough to be used both in and outside of vehicles. If you are planning on regularly carrying the device, the size and weight are especially important. A hand held device should also have batteries that can last for several hours without recharging. GPS capability for cell phones has grown increasingly popular for these purposes. If the device will be used for exercise, perhaps a GPS watch would be even better. Garmin GPS watches are among the leading GPS products.
GPS software is another big factor that should affect your decision. Does the software give you the measurements that are helpful for your particular activities? If you are a runner you will want to know your pace, and maybe the distance to your next marker. If you are a parent, you will want mapping software that picks up the location of a particular device (such as your child's cell phone), and if you are traveling, good road mapping software and directions are really helpful. Some GPS devices even give real-time traffic information through an FM frequency. Mapping software is extremely variable. There is a large range of quality and accuracy of maps for GPS devices, and finding maps with the most "points of interest" will insure your ability to find locations using that software.
The practicality of the device is determined by how easy it is to use. A GPS device is not very useful if you find yourself needing to climb a tower for a reading or take 30 minutes to type in an address. Some devices have touch screens and voice commands for convenience, but you should test these features out to make sure you can easily operate them. The simpler and more understandable the device is, the more likely you are to actually use it. The screen should also be large enough to see easily. Depending on your eyesight, there are screens of different sizes as well as lettering in deferent fonts and sizes. It is important to find a machine that is easy to read and simple to use.
By keeping these characteristics in mind, you will find the device that works best for your needs. Don't let yourself be talked into something that you do not need. Pick something that is the right size, does what you need it to do, is easy to read, and is easy to operate, and enjoy the luxury that GPS has to offer.

About the Author: Jon Werner is the Founder and Evangelist for Bones In Motion, a leading provider of GPS cell phone and Garmin GPS compatible software. For more information, please visit www.bonesinmotion.com.