Are you in the market for a new handheld GPS? Or thinking of upgrading your old GPS to a new model? If so, you will need to take care to consider more than just the bells and whistles that come with the receiver. Make a better choice with this list of seven tips.
Every year, GPS receivers have more functions and become more powerful. But does that make them a more practical sailing navigation tool in the real world of sun, salt, spray? Take the time to go through this list before you plunk down your cruising dollars on your next handheld nautical GPS.
1. Locate it near the helm
Mount your unit as close to the helm as possible. This way, the steerer can easily see the speed over ground, bearing and range to next waypoint, and highway function.
2. Make it as high as possible
Crystal displays tend to be difficult to read at low angles. Mount the unit higher to make it easy to read in all light conditions.
3. Check the vertical alignment
GPS antennas must point straight up toward the sky in order to receive the full satellite signal. Install a bracket that swivels in the vertical plane so that you can adjust the receiver antenna when heeled over.
4. Clear the path above
Can you mount the unit where dodgers or awnings don’t get in the way? These block signal reception. Use an external antenna mounted on the stern pulpit to solve this problem.
5. Install a 12V socket
Carry plenty of spare batteries. Install a 12 volt socket, wired to the house battery. This gives you full power without the worry of battery changes.
6. Test ease of use
Find a unit with large keypad button and clear function keys that are easier on your eyes. Can you see the display in dim light or in the dark? Can you adjust it in bright sunlight so that you can still see the readout?
7. Waterproof or not?
Most GPS receivers need protection from any spray. They might be advertised as water resistant, but what does that mean? On a small cruising boat, they will always operate in a wet atmosphere. In inclement marine weather, enclose the unit with a plastic bag. Keep rain and spray off of the receiver to increase its life span.
Use these seven chart navigation secrets to help you select a handheld nautical GPS that will give you great performance in the tough marine environment. You will gain more satisfaction when you choose an electronic sailing navigation tool that’s easy to use and read in all conditions.
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Captain John teaches sailing skippers the skills they need to set sail for a day, a week–or a lifetime! Get his popular free report “Ten Top Boat Safety Checks for Cruising Boat Skippers” at Learn to Sail at Skippertips.com.
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