GPS: Is there an Application for Me? GPS Receiver: Tool or Toy

The Global Positioning System or GPS is something we hear more and more about each year. It is quickly becoming an intregal part of navigation in the wilderness along with our cars, planes, and boats. It is also likely to make it into a number of Christmas Stockings of outdoor enthusiasts this year.

The Global Positioning System or NAVSTAR as it is properly known, is a system of Satellites which along with a ground receiver can be used to locate your position anywhere on the surface of the earth. The 10 Billion-dollar plus system only became fully operational in 1995 and is still commonly called by its original name, the Global Positioning System.

A GPS Receiver is neither a toy nor a replacement for navigation skill and map reading ability. It is an excellent tool that will aid a navigator while traveling through the wilderness. Indeed it can find your position within 50m in fog, whiteout or featureless terrain as well as a navigator using a compass on high ground in clear weather.

Proper programming before taking the GPS Receiver into the wilderness is the key to quick and easy success with the unit. Read the manual or take a quick course on the subject. It only takes a few hours, but it will make using the GPS a whole lot easier. Here are a few pointers that you should look at if you are planning to by a GPS for yourself or a loved one this Christmas.

Buying a GPS Receiver:

• Nitrogen Purged for excellent cold weather performance.
• Good Quality Fixed Antenna.
• Excellent Battery Life (10hrs+) using Standard AA Batteries.
• Quick easily changeable batteries.
• Accurate Positions: <15m maximum error.
• Small enough to wear under a coat.
• Can use UTM and MGRS Grid.
• WAAS Enabled.
• Multiple Tracks and Uploadable Maps.
• Computer Hookup and Remote Power Supply Hookup.
• Should be priced under $400.

A GPS receiver is easy to use, but must still be cared for like any other fine electronic instrument. It also must be protected form the cold and properly programmed to function. Hers are few hints and reminders to make the most of your GPS.

GPS Hints and Reminders

• Carry your GPS in it’s case
• Hang your unit around your neck under several layers of clothing in cold weather.
• Don’t leave the unit out for long periods of time if the temperature is below 0º C.
• Always carry a Map and Compass.
• Check your map and ‘Mark’ your Waypoints in the Receiver and on your Map.
• The more horizon the better and more accurate accuracy you get
• Remember the GPS is an excellent tool, but not a replacement for map reading and navigational ability. When you receive the message "Accuracy has been Degraded" or "Poor GPS Coverage" then its time to read your map and do a resection the old way.
• Make a copy of your Quick Reference card and place it inside your case. This way others can use your GPS in emergencies.

It is best to think of a GPS Unit as another tool that should be added to the "toolbelt" of the wilderness navigator. It definitely a fine addition to a Topographical Map and a Quality Compass. It will give you the chance to explore new areas, get off the trials more and enjoy the wonderful backcountry wilderness we have at our doorstep.

Article by Bruce Zawalsky (Dec 1st, 1998)
Chief Instructor of the Boreal Wilderness Institute

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