HANDHELD GPS
The Handheld GPS is the usual first purchase for most people. Handhelds offer the advantage of low cost and portability. Many boating people will use their handheld GPS receiver on the boat during the summer and on land during the winter months. A handheld GPS receiver unit can be a very worthwhile investment. These small units provide great position accuracy however they have some minor disadvantages. The small screen might be a problem for some people. The buttons are fairly small and may prove a problem when using the unit as the boat is moving about in the sea. So positioning the handheld unit in a comfortable place so you can use it is important.
Remember the small handheld GPS receiver need to be vertical for its antenna to locate the satellites. Lying it on its back will mean its functional performance will suffer and your position may not be accurate. However as long as you use the handheld GPS receiver unit properly it will give you accurate positioning. Just be aware of its limitations and use it out in the open (cockpit) with a clear view of the sky, in a near vertical angle and away from phyiscal obstructions (as high up as possible). Below is a video for you to watch that shows you some of the features that can be used on handheld GPS receiver units.
Most Handheld GPS receiver units use batteries for power so keep a spare set on board. Most also have the facility use 12 volt supply from a cigar lighter socket (same as in the car) so consider this method if you are going on a long passage. Also a protective cover for the unit would be useful to prevent sea water affecting the performance of the GPS receiver unit.
All of these products are available on this website. Many are advertised in the Store Pages, so just click on these to find the product you need.
If you are not sure what type of handheld is best for your circumstances there is an excellent website for comparing these units. Just follow the link below to find out more information. Remember to come back here to find the cheapest version of your chosen unit!