Accurate positioning and navigation are the purpose of GPS systems. They were created in the early 1970's by the Department of Defense, and were mainly created to help soldiers and military vehicles, ships and planes to know their locations anywhere in the world. Today, GPS navigation systems are also used for commercial and scientific purposes. Commercially, GPS is used by boats, airplanes and other vehicles. Hiking, kayaking and fishing are other uses for it. Scientifically, GPS is essential for earth sciences. GPS navigation can also be used to study earthquake events and potential activities, weather forecasting and global climate studies by meteorologists.

GPS navigation systems are now being used by more and more civilians. They have proven to be extremely useful in many different situations. They now come in several different designs, functions and features.

How Do You Choose Your GPS Navigation System? You've probably already heard of in-car GPS devices. But you've also probably already heard of portable GPS devices. So which one should you get? One major difference between in-car GPS devices and portable GPS devices is that portable ones are considerably cheaper than in-dash models. The Garmin Nuvi 350 GPS system, which is a portable GPS device, is about $200, and it still comes with almost the same features as most other in-car GPS devices. Moreover, if you're willing to spend just a bit more on the Garmin Nuvi GPS system, you get to have cool added features such as Bluetooth hands free calling capability to your mobile phone. And what's even better is that the model utilizes NAVTEQ maps. Overall, portable GPS devices have more benefits, which include a lower price and equally helpful features.

It looks confusing when one is looking for a good GPS system because of the wide range of features, different brands and varied prices. There are hundreds of GPS systems available today varying in the price range of $150 to $900!. A very important thing to be kept in mind while looking for a good GPS system is the features available. What all features do we need? Whether our requirements are met by a standard GPS system or do we need to go in for a more sophisticated one with some additional capabilities If we need a simple GPS system we should not go for something above the price range of $500

Look around the Internet and local shops and check out some GPS brands. You may ask salesclerks what the most popular systems are. Once you've gotten an idea about the popular GPS systems, you may then evaluate the cost, quality and options. Jot down what you think are your top brands and narrow down to about 5 or less. Search for reviews and ratings for those brands/models online. Reading what other buyers have to say will give you an idea whether you should go for a certain model or not. You can even ask for advice from other people in online forums. Additionally, you should as for recommendations from people you trust and have bought GPS systems, such as family, friends and colleagues.