Difference between revisions of "GPS receiver"
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By entering the [[coordinates]] of a [[geocache]], a [[GPS receiver]] will typically display an arrow giving you the distance and bearing of the [[geocache]]. | By entering the [[coordinates]] of a [[geocache]], a [[GPS receiver]] will typically display an arrow giving you the distance and bearing of the [[geocache]]. | ||
| − | Modern [[GPS receiver]]s operate on twelve channels, meaning they can pick up the signal from up to 12 of the 29 satellites in the [[GPS constellation]]. Older units operate on only 8 channels. While these older units are still able to be used for [[geocaching]], thay are not as accurate. | + | Modern [[GPS receiver]]s operate on [[twelve]] channels, meaning they can pick up the signal from up to 12 of the 29 satellites in the [[GPS constellation]]. Older units operate on only 8 channels. While these older units are still able to be used for [[geocaching]], thay are not as accurate. |
The most popular brands are [[Garmin]] and [http://magellangps.com Magellan]. | The most popular brands are [[Garmin]] and [http://magellangps.com Magellan]. | ||
Revision as of 17:54, 25 October 2005
A GPS receiver receives satellite signals and pinpoints your current position. By entering the coordinates of a geocache, a GPS receiver will typically display an arrow giving you the distance and bearing of the geocache.
Modern GPS receivers operate on twelve channels, meaning they can pick up the signal from up to 12 of the 29 satellites in the GPS constellation. Older units operate on only 8 channels. While these older units are still able to be used for geocaching, thay are not as accurate.
The most popular brands are Garmin and Magellan.
The Navman brand is also becoming popular for its PDA style GPS (especially in Tasmania).
Prices vary dramatically, so it's best to ask in the forum to see where to get one at the moment.
Every now and again there are polls in the forum about the popularity of individual brands. Here's the most recent poll.
The "EPE" or Accuracy does not mean what it appears.
