| GPS stands for Global Positioning System. That means it can give you the latitude and longitude of your current position. |
Many people think that the GPS is just a toy for boys who like new gadgets with buttons and readouts. Others think that the GPS is a replacement for maps and compasses. |
A GPS (for GPS navigation) is a useful adjunct to a map and compass, but NO replacement for the ability to read a map and plot a course. |
|  GPS works by communicating with a network of satellites which continuously transmit coded information. This makes it possible to precisely identify locations based on their distance from the satellites. |
| | There are usually 21 active satellites circling high above the earth. Your GPS unit will will talk to at least 4 of them at any time, providing accurate location details. |
Each satellite transmits low power radio signals which travel in 'line of sight'. This means that your GPS will receive signals through clouds, glass and plastic but not through buildings, mountains or dense tree cover. |
when walking in the bush always take a map and compass whenever you use a GPS. |
| | Of course, compasses and maps don't need to be powered. A GPS uses batteries and you must make sure that every time you use yours on a walk the batteries are fresh. |
| Once you download map software into your GPS, it will show you on the map precisely where you are. You can then check your paper map and see where you need to go. |
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