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Additionally, here’s how to fix common GPS issues when it’s not functioning properly.
GPS (Global Positioning System) devices are now everywhere—on smartphones, in vehicles, and integrated with a variety of popular apps. They help you get directions and discover new places, from restaurants to activities. While using a GPS can seem tricky at first, especially with all the different models out there, they’re actually quite easy to operate. Below, we’ll guide you through the basics of using a GPS device.
Getting Started with GPS
Open the map on your smartphone or GPS device, enter your destination in the search bar, and follow the provided directions to get there. To save specific locations or future destinations, simply tap “Save location.”
Instructions
Using Basic GPS Devices
Purchase a smartphone or a car GPS to easily access directions and track your location. The GPS market offers a wide variety of devices, each with different features. However, if you're not planning on exploring remote areas or conducting research, a smartphone or a car GPS should be sufficient for getting directions and pinpointing your location. Most devices are equipped with touchscreens and rechargeable batteries.
- Smartphones: Many smartphones come pre-installed with a map or navigation app that uses GPS. If yours doesn't, simply download a GPS app, like Google Maps, from your app store.
- GPS Devices: These are compact, rectangular gadgets that specialize in navigation, finding local restaurants, airports, and other points of interest. Popular brands include TomTom and Garmin, with most options priced below $170.
Open the "Map" feature. This is the primary interface for a GPS, where you'll see your current location in the center, along with nearby roads and key landmarks.
Select "My Location." Depending on the GPS, you may use a touchscreen, keypad, or scroll wheel. Look for the button marked with a compass, navigation arrow, or crosshairs to pinpoint your current location.
- Your location might be listed under headings like "Where am I?", "Favorite Locations", or "Current".
- iPhone users can access their location via the built-in Compass app. Just ensure that "Location Services" are enabled under "Settings" → "Privacy" → "Location Services" → "Compass".
Enter your destination address. Use the search bar at the top of your GPS to type in your desired destination. Some touchscreen GPS units allow you to select a location by pressing on the map directly.
- If there’s no search bar, you might see a button labeled "Get Directions." Click this to proceed.
- For the most precise location, input the exact latitude and longitude coordinates of your destination.
Follow the GPS directions to reach your destination. The GPS will guide you with step-by-step directions, alerting you at every turn. If you miss a turn, don’t worry—most GPS systems will automatically recalculate your route to get you back on track.
- If you find it difficult to keep up with the directions, adjust the "Turn Warning Frequency" setting on your GPS to give yourself more time to prepare for the next instruction.
Using GPS for Research and Exploration
Understand how to read latitude and longitude coordinates. Latitude and longitude are measured in degrees, which indicate your distance from two reference lines. Longitude measures how far you are East or West of the prime meridian, while latitude indicates your distance North or South of the equator. This is the most precise method used by GPS devices.
- An example (can you guess where it is?) is 37°26'46.9"N, 122°09'57.0"W.
- Sometimes directions are noted with positive or negative numbers. North and East are positive, so the previous example could also be written as: 37°26'46.9", -122°09'57.0".
- When no notation is present, remember that latitude always comes first.
Save your current location as a waypoint. Waypoints are markers that allow you to save locations on your GPS for future reference. This is helpful for making notes, drawing maps, and keeping track of important features in the landscape. To mark your location, click "Save Location," "Add to Favorites," or "Mark Waypoint."
- Advanced scientific GPS devices let you save specific waypoints for things like artifacts, streams, or rock formations.
- The more waypoints you save, the more detailed and accurate your map of the area will be when you return home.
Input waypoints ahead of time if there are no addresses available. Enter the longitude and latitude coordinates of key locations, such as water sources, campgrounds, or ranger stations, under the "Get Directions" or "Find Location" options. Save them by selecting "Add to Favorites." These locations are now accessible at any time.
- "Add to Favorites" may also appear as a star or flag icon.
- To access your saved waypoints, go to "Saved Locations" or "Favorite Locations" and select them to get directions from anywhere.
Connect your GPS to your computer to transfer the data. Most advanced GPS systems come with software that allows you to download your data onto your computer. The software will import your waypoints, enabling it to create a detailed map of the area you explored, complete with elevation data and any notes you recorded on your GPS.
- If you’re mapping a specific region, make sure to save as many waypoints as possible for a more accurate map. The more data you have, the better the final map will be.
Fixing GPS Issues
Update your maps if the directions are outdated. If you’re using a phone, this will usually happen automatically, but some GPS devices need manual updates. These updates will provide you with the most current topography and routing information.
- Look for the "About" option, typically found in the "Settings" menu.
- Scroll down to find the Map Information section. If the map is over six months old, an update will be necessary.
- Connect your GPS to an internet-enabled computer using the provided cable.
- Search online for "your GPS + Map Update" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Understand that GPS relies on satellites to pinpoint your location. There are over 25 satellites orbiting the Earth that communicate with your GPS, using their signals to calculate your latitude and longitude. Developed by the military, GPS can determine your location within a few feet, as long as the satellite signal is accessible.
- Cell phone GPS, on the other hand, uses cell towers and internet signals to determine your location, which means it won’t work well in remote areas.
Move to an open area. GPS requires an unobstructed view of the sky to communicate with satellites effectively. If you're facing issues, move away from overhangs, tall trees, or any structures that block the signal and head outside. Generally, as long as you can see the sky, your GPS will be able to connect too.
- Areas like tunnels, caves, or basements may prevent your GPS from establishing a connection to the satellites, causing it to malfunction.
Activate your GPS when you first get it. Many GPS devices are manufactured in Asia and are designed to connect to satellites over that region. Initializing your GPS helps it adapt to your local environment. To initialize, go to the "Settings" and click on "Initialize." If you have trouble finding this setting, consult your GPS’s manual. Keep in mind that the initialization process may take up to 20 minutes.
- If you encounter issues, try turning the GPS off and restarting it.
- Ensure you have a clear line of sight to the sky.
- You may need to reset the GPS and clear its memory when using it for the first time. Check the manual for instructions.
Activate "Satellite Lock" before setting off. This feature is especially helpful for outdoor activities like hiking. Before you leave, find the satellite lock option on your GPS and let it sync—this may take several minutes.
- Signs of a weak signal include frequent direction changes, unstable locations, or error messages.
Remember that GPS devices are not substitutes for maps and compasses. Since GPS devices can run out of battery, lose signal, or break, you shouldn’t rely on them entirely for navigation. While they are handy tools, always have a backup plan in case your GPS becomes unavailable.
Maximizing Your GPS Experience
Search for nearby shops, restaurants, and activities. Modern GPS devices can help you find more than just addresses. Try searching for "Indian Food," "Post Offices," "Gas Stations," "Rock Climbing Gyms," or any other interest to discover nearby options. This feature is especially helpful in new cities or when you’re looking for the nearest burrito spot.
- GPS apps and internet-enabled devices (like smartphones) almost always have this feature.
- Many portable GPS devices have a "Nearby Locations" or "Find Locations" option to show businesses around you.
Try out Geocaching. Geocaching involves hiding objects with GPS coordinates for others to find. It’s a worldwide community built on exploration and discovery, offering a fun way to explore the outdoors. To get started, buy a GPS and register on one of the many online platforms or forums dedicated to Geocaching.
Monitor your workouts. Many modern GPS devices and apps allow you to track your runs or bike rides, storing data on speed, elevation, and distance for later analysis. For optimal tracking, you’ll need specific apps such as NikeFit, MapMyRun, or AppleHealth.
Locate a lost phone. Smartphones are always connected to GPS, so you can use them to find a lost or stolen phone—if you act fast. Install a tracking app and sync it with your computer to keep track of your phone’s location at all times.
- For iPhone users, use "Find my iPhone" by visiting the website and logging in with your Apple ID.
- Android users can access Google's "Device Manager" to track their lost phone, even without a tracking app. You can remotely install "Android Lost" to get GPS coordinates of your phone.
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GPS provides a more efficient way to reach your destination compared to traditional maps. You won’t need to stop and check a map, especially if you’re driving alone.
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If your cell phone has GPS or a navigator, use it as it functions like a standard GPS device.
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For more detailed guidance on using a GPS, visit expert-village's Channel on YouTube.
Important Alerts
- Be mindful of your GPS device—it’s a costly item, and repairing or replacing it can come at a high price.
- Always exercise caution when using your GPS, and make sure you have an alternative navigation method in place just in case.
