GPS or Global Positioning System (Global Positioning System) is a tool that can be found everywhere these days. We can find it on our cell phones, cars, and even attached to most of our favorite apps. Today, we can use GPS to get directions and find new places to eat and hang out, but learning how to use GPS can seem complicated because of the wide variety of GPS types. Fortunately, all GPS tools are very easy to use.
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Method 1 of 4: Using a Simple GPS Tool
Step 1. Purchase a smartphone or car GPS to get your directions and location
There are GPS in the market in various types, options, and features. If you're not using GPS in the wild or for experimental research, your smartphone or car GPS can give you directions and your location quickly and easily. Most GPS devices have a touch screen and a rechargeable battery.
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Smartphone:
Most smartphones come with a "Maps" or "Directions" application that uses GPS. If you don't have the app, find and download a similar app, such as Google Maps, from the app store to use GPS.
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GPS Tools:
This small rectangular tool is specially made for giving directions and finding restaurants, airports, and other places of interest. One of the GPS tools out there are TomTom and Garmin, and most of them cost under IDR 2,500,000.00.
Step 2. Open "Map"
A GPS base page will appear showing your location, usually your central location, and all major roads and landmarks that are near you.
Step 3. Click "My Location"
Some GPS uses a touch screen, some have a keypad, and some have a gear wheel and buttons. Click the button with a compass, navigation arrow, or crosshair to show your current location.
- Your location is usually saved under the heading "Where am I?" "Favorite Locations", or "Current".
- iPhone users can view their location using the built-in "Compass" app. Make sure you enable "Allow Location Services" for this compass app via "Settings" → "Privacy" → "Location Services" → "Compass"
Step 4. Select your destination address
Use the search box found at the top of your GPS, and type in the address you want to go to. You can also select a location by pressing a place on the map with your finger on the touch-screen GPS.
- Some GPS's provide a button labeled "Get Directions". Select this button if there is no search box to enter the address.
- If you know the exact latitude and longitude of where you are going, use them as they will give you the most accurate location.
Step 5. Follow the GPS instructions to get to your destination
GPS will give you directions around every bend you need to take. Don't worry if you take the wrong path because most GPS will give you a new path to get back on track.
If you're having trouble following the GPS, check your GPS settings and make the "Turn Warning Frequency" setting longer, which will give you more time to hear the next clue
Method 2 of 4: Using GPS for Research and Exploration
Step 1. Learn to read latitude and longitude coordinates
Latitude and longitude are represented by numbers, better known as degrees, that measure your distance from the base point of the two lines. Longitude measures your distance from the east or west of the prime meridian, while latitude measures your distance from north or south of the equator. It is the most accurate measurement system for your GPS.
- For example (guess this place!) is 37°26'46.9"N, 122°09'57.0"W.
- Sometimes direction is indicated by a positive or negative number. North and east are considered as positive. The previous example can also be written like this: 37°26'46.9", -122°09'57.0"
- If there are no records, the latitude is always written first.
Step 2. Mark your current location as a reference point
Reference points can be saved in GPS for later viewing. You can also take notes, draw maps, and easily store information about a place on the GPS. On your GPS, click "Save Location", "Add to Favorites", or "Mark Waypoint".
- In complex scientific GPS systems, you can mark special reference points, such as artifacts, rivers, rock formations, etc.
- The more points you save on your GPS, the more accurate your map area will be when you return home.
Step 3. Set the reference point beforehand if there is no address
Enter the latitude/longitude coordinates of a water source, campsite, or ranger post under "Get Directions" or "Find Location" and save it by pressing "Add to Favorites". You can access these reference points any time you want.
- "Add to Favorites" can be represented with a star or a flag.
- Click "Saved Locations" or "Favorite Locations" to view your reference points. You can select this button to get directions from places in the world.
Step 4. Connect your GPS to your computer to download data
Most complex GPS systems come with software with which you can save your data to your computer. The program will enter your point of reference and use it to create a map of the area you live in, complete with elevations and notes you make on your GPS.
If you are mapping a specific area, make as many points of reference as you can for an accurate map. The more data the program has, the better the results
Method 3 of 4: Troubleshooting Your GPS
Step 1. Download the latest map update if the instructions given are not correct
If you are using a smartphone then the update will be done automatically, but some GPS tools need to be updated manually. Updates that are made will provide you with the latest information, topography and directions.
- Select the "About" button which is usually found in "Settings".
- Swipe down to view map information. If the map is more than 6 months old, you will need to update it.
- Connect your GPS device to an internet-connected computer using the cable provided from the GPS device.
- Do an internet search for "your GPS + Map Update" and follow the instructions on the screen.
Step 2. GPS uses satellites to find you
There are more than 25 satellites orbiting the earth that receive signals from your GPS and use these signals to determine your latitude and longitude. GPS developed by the army can also find your location accurately where and no matter how deep you are as long as the GPS signal can still be received by satellites.
Cell phone GPS uses telecommunications towers and internet signals to find your location. Therefore, cell phone GPS will not work in the wild
Step 3. Wear it out in the open
GPS requires a clear, direct-to-sky field of view to communicate accurately with satellites. Therefore, stay away from the roof of the veranda or tall trees and come out if a problem occurs. Usually, if you can see the sky, the GPS will work fine.
Tunnels, caves, and dungeons can completely prevent your GPS from communicating with satellites and working
Step 4. Set up your GPS after you buy it
Most GPS devices are made in Asia and are usually linked to satellites around the region. Set your GPS to know your local area. To set up GPS, select "Settings" and click "Initialize". Follow your GPS manual if you're having trouble figuring out the settings. Also be aware that this setup can take up to 20 minutes.
- Turn your GPS off and on again if you have problems.
- Make sure nothing is covering the sky.
- You need to reset your GPS to the original settings, when you bought it the first time, by clearing the existing memory. Use the manual for instructions on doing this.
Step 5. Use "Satellite Lock" before you go out
This is very useful especially when you are climbing mountains. In the parking lot, look for the setting to lock your GPS satellite position and enable this setting. Usually this can take a few minutes.
Signs you're getting a bad signal are when the directions change, the location wobbles, or an error message pops up
Step 6. GPS is not a substitute for maps and compasses
You can't rely entirely on GPS because it can run out of battery, lose signal, or get damaged. Although it can still be used, you need to prepare other items in case the GPS cannot be used at some point.
Method 4 of 4: Get to Know GPS More
Step 1. Find shops, restaurants, and events near you
Today, most GPS devices can find many places other than just addresses. Try searching for "Indian Food," "Post Office," "Gas Station," "Rock Climbing," or whatever else you'd like to find and see. This comes in handy when you're in a new city or if you just want to find a place to eat nearby.
- Internet-connected apps and GPS (such as those found on cell phones) will always have this feature.
- Many portable GPS devices have a "Nearby Locations" or "Find Locations" section that can list various places of business or businesses in your vicinity.
Step 2. Do Geocaching
Geocaching is an activity when people hide an object in the world with GPS coordinates. Geocache is a global community focused on sharing places and exploration, and it can also be a fun way to see open spaces. To geocache, buy a GPS device and register it with one of the internet-based services and forums.
Step 3. Track your exercise path
Most modern GPS tools and apps can be started while you're running or cycling and will store info about your speed, endurance and distance. You'll need a dedicated app like NikeFit, MapMyRun, or AppleHealth to use a feature like this.
Step 4. Find the lost cell phone
Since all smartphones are equipped with GPS, you can use it to locate a lost or stolen phone if you move quickly. Download a tracker app on your phone and sync it with your computer to always check your phone's location.
- Use "Find my iPhone", by visiting the Find my iPhone site and entering your Apple username.
- Go to "Device Manager" on Google to find your lost or stolen Android device without using a tracking app. You can also download "Android Lost" to get the coordinates of your phone.
Tips
- GPS helps you get to your destination faster than using a map because you have to stop and look at the map if you are driving and no one is with you.
- If your cell phone has a GPS/navigator then use that phone. Your cell phone will work in the same way as a standard GPS.
- Visit the "expertvillage" channel on YouTube to learn to use GPS.
- Practice using your GPS before using it for long trips or adventures.
Warning
- Always use common sense when using GPS and have a backup navigation tool available.
- Take care of your GPS. GPS is an expensive item and you will have to spend a lot of money to repair it or get a new one.
