| How does a boat GPS system work? Are all GPS | | | | downloads are accurate. |
| systems the same? Is there a separate Global | | | | Remember that marine boat GPS units can also track |
| Positioning System for land and water? Let's first | | | | large rocks, shallow water and wreckage, just as |
| review how GPS units work through modern | | | | automobiles can track traffic jams. |
| technology. | | | | The majority of boat wrecks are close to land. You |
| GPS satellites are operated by the U.S. Air Force. | | | | can depend on a new boat GPS system to guide you |
| There are 24 satellites that orbit the earth twice a day. | | | | through turbulent river traffic. The newest models of |
| These satellites will transmit signals to ground | | | | boat GPS are so accurate that users can actually tie |
| equipment. Each satellite in orbit has an atomic clock. | | | | their system into an autopilot device and into the boat's |
| Every transmission reveals a satellite's location and the | | | | radar. This makes for one smooth, hands-free ride. |
| time. Signals are arriving at literally the speed of light. | | | | Marine GPS systems also have three other |
| Your individual boat GPS will rely on four different | | | | advantages from an ordinary GPS system. |
| transmissions. | | | | First, they are battery operated and handheld (though |
| In order to work properly, as with any satellite | | | | models can exploit a boat's electricity). |
| technology, the device must have a clear view of the | | | | Second, most models are waterproof in case of |
| sky. That means that there will be interference in tall | | | | accidental splashing. |
| tunnels, forests, canyons and downtown areas. | | | | Lastly, boat GPS systems have a special feature |
| This is good news for you who travel by sea! The sea | | | | called a chart plotter. This feature allows you to see |
| has wide-open space, which means faster and more | | | | GPS information overlaid on nautical charts. Thus, you |
| efficient readings with a GPS device. When you travel | | | | will actually be working more with the chart plotter, |
| on the ocean or a large sea, you can get an absolute | | | | which is powered by the boat GPS system. |
| position on the globe, and get details regarding current | | | | The best models are larger and have more buttons |
| and wind. This type of accuracy is not possible if you | | | | and longer external antennas. |
| simply use a compass or a map. | | | | There's no question that a GPS will be your guide to |
| Why buy a special boat GPS unit instead of any old | | | | your journey out to sea. This system is powerful |
| GPS system made for a car? | | | | enough to pick up buoys, lighthouses and even local |
| Newer boat GPS systems are up-to-the-minute | | | | obstructions in the water. That said, always remember |
| accurate and are made exclusively for sea conditions. | | | | to bring back up in the way of a compass and paper |
| You can find the location of your ship, the marina | | | | chart. |
| entrance, fishing ground and anchorage in no time. Buy | | | | New technology makes boating easy! |
| a new model so you can be sure that the latest | | | | |