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The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of satellites placed into orbit. Today GPS systems are available in a large variety and making the correct choice, which provides optimum balance between desirable features and cost may be difficult. The entry level GPS can provide you accurate information about your location in terms of longitude and latitudes while the high end units come loaded with large number of features which include preloaded maps, audio and video guidance systems, optimum route selection capabilities based on real time statistics, interface to connect with a computer, etc.

The decision to buy a GPS can also be based upon the type of system you desire to acquire. They can primarily be classified into three major categories – built-in, portable and hand held devices. The built in systems have larger screens and are generally placed permanently. The other two systems provide the advantage of portability and they can be shifted from one vehicle to another.

The GPS systems can also be classified on the basis of cost and features. The basic models provide an affordable option but have limited features. They will be able to indicate your accurate location in terms of longitude and latitude and also with reference to stored waypoints, routes and tracks. They can generally be connected with computer to upload and download waypoints. However, they do not offer map based guidance systems. Extra features such as altimeter or digital compass may also be available. The prices of basic models can vary from $90 to $200 depending upon the features available. These are most suitable for outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking, trekking etc where the requirement is primarily to know your own position and plan your future course accordingly.

The next category of GPS systems can store a database of your points of interest which are primarily easily recognizable landmarks such as gas stations, banks, bridges, restaurants etc. You can connect these GPS systems to a PC to transfer additional landmarks on to the internal memory of the system from the available CD-ROMs. The price range is from $150 to $300. These are most suitable for boating or long drives especially while moving cross country or while visiting a place where you have never been before.

The next category of GPS is the one that provides map based navigational aids with both audio and video assistance. The big LCD color screens enable you to have better graphical understanding of the area you are in. Size of display is an important factor when installing a GPS system in your vehicle. The choice would depend on requirement and budget. The touch screens provide ease of operation. You can get real time updates of the traffic conditions on various routes and therefore, you can make more informed decisions on the likely course to be taken. These systems are also available with Bluetooth hands free phones. The built in systems are usually placed in the stereo slots as they have built in radio tuners and players. These are priced from $300 to $1,000, but the prices have been mostly heading southwards, and you could possibly pick up a good piece real cheap.