<p>Have you ever found yourself wondering out loud where you are? You may have made a generalized guess but did not arrive at an answer that truly determines the question. Yet, with new technology this is a question that is fairly easy to answer. The release of the Global Positioning System (GPS) has made the ability to locate your position simple and easy.

Basically the notion of the GPS navigation started centuries ago when the first explorer asked the question “Where am I?” But the GPS technology first came into view around 1950s’. This was first developed and made available for military purposes. The collaboration of the US Department of Defense, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Ivan Getting made this technological advancement possible. It originally had eight satellites orbiting the earth and was officially termed as Navigation System with Timing and Ranging (NAVSTAR).

In recent years, the world of GPS is comprised of 24 satellites that spin around the globe and will send down two signals in 24 hours presenting info on time and location. A Garmin GPSMap 78sc Handheld GPS Navigator and, for that matter, all handheld GPS receivers have the ability to present an exact location all throughout the earth on land or sea. A GPS receiver figures out the distance between the user and three satellites. When you need to know elevation levels, four satellites will be needed.

Anyone with a love for fun in the outdoors and hopes to adventure will discover a GPS receiver is a must own. Such a device can determine exact locations for bikers, hikers, pilots, boaters, etc simply by entering a location and making a very simple push of a button. A solid GPS model such as the Garmin GPSMap 78sc Handheld GPS Navigator and newly issued of GPS models with the ability to show clear data detailing latitude and longitude, Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) and UTM (a grid that is devised by the Bureau of Land Management). These units will maintain a log for tracking that gives users the ability to properly trace their steps without much of a hassle. The GPS receivers need to be sensitive enough to draw in powerful satellite reception even though it may be deep in a canyon or in an area that is covered by highly dense trees.

With outdoor GPS units, the battery life of the system must last upwards of 12 hours and this will also include the dual use of compass and GPS. The unit must also have the potential to upload and download data to a computer or with a mapping system that is totally computerized while also displaying the information as accurate as needed. The memory of the system should be enough to store up to 500 waypoints.

Since a GPS unit will have to deal with all sorts of weather conditions and may even has to deal with rough handling, the casing much be made from rubber and remain highly durable. The backlights also need to be powerful enough so that you can read data in every type of light situation. Garmin GPSMap 78sc Handheld GPS Navigator and common modern GPS receivers come with a built-in compass that can let the user know where he is and what direction he is venturing. Those units with higher price tags will present even more features. Purchasing a GPS at any price is a must when you are heading into the great outdoors because it makes all ventures safe and more enjoyable.