*** GPS Use with Maps ***

Wed Apr  5 15:12:50 1995
Message : #24356379    From: Paul Opitz
Address : rpo3352@omega
Length  : 342 words
Subject : Re: GPS Usage
Org.  : University of Texas Arlington

stevew@teleport.com wrote:
: Hi all!

: I'm going to do the Oregon leg of the PCT next year (big deal, right?)
: and am enthusiastically perusing catelogs and such checking out all the
: latest gear.  I come across GPS (Global Positioning Units) and wonder
: if people really feel the need to use them?

On a well-marked trail, no need. However, if you do plan on someday
going on a trail that is not so well marked, or if you just suffer from
gadgetitus, using the GPS on a well-marked trail is probably the
best way to learn.

: First of all, do you need special maps or will your standard 1:24,000 topo
: do?  Is it necessary to take courses on land navigation or do the
: manufacturers provide adequate documentation?

The GPS will work with standard topos. Some (Trails Illustrated) are
starting to include lat/lon coordinates for major landmarks. You should
already be familiar with land navigation WITHOUT a GPS (i.e. proficiency
with a map/compass/topo is a must for safe backpacking). The GPS is nice
to have when exploring off trail.

The book that came with my Trailblazer gives a little info for land
navigation, however, there are books out specifically for land navigation
using a GPS (one such book is available from Grapevine Publications
1-800-338-4331).



: Thanks!  - Steve

: -----------------------WILLIAMSON IMAGINEERING-------------------------
:               WWW: http://www.teleport.com/~stevew/index.html

:         the NET GAZZETTE!  An electronic general-interest magazine

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||Paul Opitz               | N5TPQ                                    ||
||Senior Technical Writer  | paul@infohub.merch.rs.tandy.com          ||
||Radio Shack Publications | 817-878-6864                             ||
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(Paul Opitz)